How do you change an air filter on a 1995 Mercury Sable if the clips holding the top down are off but the top of the black compartment will not open?

When changing the air filter on a 1995 Sable (3.0 Liter), note that there are two clips in the rear holding the top down over the filter. In addition, the front of the cover has an upward facing lip that is designed to engage on an adjoining, downward facing lip on the box that holds the air filter. After opening the two latches in the rear, pull the rear of the top up and towards the front of the car while pushing the front of the top down and pulling it forward. This should separate the front catch and allow you to remove the hood. Reverse this procedure after changing the filter, locking the front in place before reattaching the two rear clamps.