what is the five symbols underneath the rearview mirror of a 2000 cougar mean?

Answer 1

check your owners manual, you can find them on ebay.com :)

to check them, turn the key on but don't start the engine, are they lit up? if not, watch them as you turn the key to start, if they are warning lights, they should lite up

Answer 2

They are actually warning lights IE check engine, frost etc

Answer 3

that the special code put in by ford/ lincoln / mercury.. it means start looking for a new car because the days are numbered for your Cougar. but you cant tell any one or ill have to whack ya.