🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Contour Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Market Segment: Compact/Mid-size Sedan (Sporty focus) Generation Generation: First Generation (North America) Codes Platform: CDW27 (shared with Mercury Mystique) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Professional-grade technical resource for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Offers substantial savings on repair costs by empowering owners with expert knowledge. Key Features Manufacturer Origin: Original Ford Workshop Manual content, same used by dealership technicians. Accessibility: Instant download provides immediate access to repair information. Completeness: Guaranteed complete and intact with no missing or corrupt parts. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas All Models: Yes (All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types) Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided but indicated as comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Download Delivery Method: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Service Repair: Complete Engine Service and Repair Transmission Service Repair: Complete Transmission Service and Repair (Manual and Automatic) Brake System: Comprehensive Brake System Service and Repair Electrical System: Detailed Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair Wiring Diagrams: Integrated Wiring Diagrams for Ease of Use Suspension: Complete Suspension System Service and Repair Steering: Complete Steering System Service and Repair Cooling System: Complete Cooling System Service and Repair Fuel Injection Fuel System: Comprehensive Fuel Injection and Fuel System Service and Repair Emission System: Emission System Diagnosis and Repair HVAC: Heater and Air Conditioning System Service and Repair Engine Control System: Engine Control System Diagnosis and Repair Chassis Body: Chassis and Body Repair Procedures Restraint System: Restraint System (Airbags, Seatbelts) Service Interior: Interior Component Service and Repair Differential Drive: Differential and Drive System Service Axle: Axle Service and Repair General Maintenance: General Maintenance Procedures and Schedules Periodic Lubrication: Periodic Lubrication Charts and Procedures Procedures Included Troubleshooting: Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guides for Common Issues Repair Procedures: Detailed Step-by-Step Repair Procedures Diagnostics: Diagnostic Procedures for Various Systems Disassembly Assembly: Component Disassembly and Reassembly Instructions Cleaning Reinstallation: Component Cleaning and Reinstallation Procedures Specifications: Critical Specifications for Repairs and Maintenance Technical Depth Depth: Professional Technician Level (covers diagnostics, repair, and maintenance for all systems) Illustrations: Detailed Illustrations, Drawings, and Photos with Enlarged Insets Instructions Format: Numbered Step-by-Step Instructions with Notes, Cautions, and Warnings 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Details: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Printability: Full Printable Specifications Zoom Capability: Zoom IN/OUT Capability Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (No physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) Requirements Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.0L Zetec I4, 2.5L Duratec V6 (GL, SE, LX, SVT trims) Performance 2.0L Zetec Hp: 125 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.) 2.5L Duratec V6 Hp: 170 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.) 2.5L Duratec V6 Torque: 165 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (MTX-75) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic (AX4N) Features Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 183.7 inches Width: 70.1 inches Height: 55.2 inches Wheelbase: 104.2 inches Weights Curb Weight Min: 3000 lbs (approx.) Curb Weight Max: 3200 lbs (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact Rating: Not applicable for model year testing as per available data, but Contour generally aimed for good safety. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette/CD Player options. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Connectivity Cellular Integration: N/A (No factory integrated cellular or advanced connectivity features). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact specification based on oil type and driving conditions). Timing Belt Replacement: Zetec engines: 100,000 miles or 10 years (critical to replace to avoid engine damage). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: 5W-30 API SG/SH or higher (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Coolant Specification: Ford Super Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mercon V ATF (or equivalent specification) Known Issues Common Problems: Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) issues, sagging headliners, power window regulator failures, EGR valve issues, front suspension component wear. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Ford Performance Focus: Ford Contour was part of Ford's push for more European-influenced, driver-focused vehicles. Model Evolution Global Platform: Based on the European Ford Mondeo platform, offering a sportier driving dynamic than many US contemporaries. Production Production Start Year: 1994 (for 1995 model year) Production End Year: 2000 (for 2000 model year) Manufacturing Location: Kansas City, Missouri, USA 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Early Reviews: Often praised for its handling and chassis dynamics, particularly the V6...