🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Contour Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Platform: CDW27 (Global C/D Car platform) Codes Vin Code Start: 1F Vin Code End: 1F 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size sedan and wagon, competitor to cars like Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu. Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, DIY enthusiasts, professional technicians. Competitive Analysis Manual Value Proposition: Provides professional-level repair information at a fraction of dealership costs, empowering owners with detailed knowledge. Manual Scope: Covers multiple model years and extensive repair procedures, offering a complete resource. Key Features Detail Level: Highly detailed, step-by-step instructions with hundreds of illustrations. Accessibility: Instant digital download, usable on multiple devices. Utility: Supports diagnosis, repair, maintenance, and restoration. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General: Comprehensive service and repair for Ford Contour 1996-1999 models. Engine: Overhaul, rebuilding, performance tuning, firing orders, timing belt service, serpentine belt routing. Drivetrain: Transmission information, U-joint and CV-joint service procedures. Brakes: Brake system service and repair. Suspension Steering: Front end procedures and specifications, suspension service. Electrical Electronics: Wiring diagrams, computer diagnostic codes, trouble codes, troubleshooting and diagnostics. Body Chassis: Sunroof service. Climate Control: Air conditioning service and capacities. Page Count Estimated Pages: Over 5000 Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual Origin: Factory/OEM Equivalent Language Primary Language: English Format Delivery Method: Digital Download (PDF) File Types: PDF, ZIP, RAR, EXE Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac, iPad Access Duration: 3 days after payment 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain components. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, hydraulic), Wheels, Tires. Body Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats. Electrical Diagnostic: Complete wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, diagnostics, computer codes (OBD-I/OBD-II relevant to year). Comfort Convenience: Climate control (HVAC), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio systems. Procedures Included Maintenance: Factory maintenance schedules and charts, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts. Repair Rebuild: Engine overhaul and rebuilding, transmission repair, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Trouble codes, troubleshooting and diagnostics for all major systems, engine performance analysis. Specific Tasks: Timing belt replacement, sunroof service, U-joint and CV-joint service, serpentine belt routing. Technical Depth Level: Detailed factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures. Illustrations: Hundreds of illustrations, diagrams, exploded views. Specifications: Complete torque specifications, detailed specifications for all components. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Type: PDF Quality: High-resolution, zoomable illustrations. Searchability: Likely text-searchable within PDF (depending on original source scanning). Print Quality Printability: Fully printable on any computer and printer. Binding Type Physical Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Physical Paper: N/A (Digital Download) File Size Estimated Size: Up to 4000 MB (per listing, indicates comprehensive nature) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 2.0L Zetec DOHC I4 Engine 1 Power: 125 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.) Engine 1 Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.) Engine 2 Engine 2: 2.5L Duratec DOHC V6 (KL-ZE variant used in some markets/performance trims) Engine 2 Power: 170 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx. for US market) Engine 2 Torque: 163 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx. for US market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Maintenance Timing Belt: Required replacement at specified intervals (manual will detail specific mileage/time). Serpentine Belt: Routing diagrams and replacement procedures are covered. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 1: 5-speed Manual Transaxle (MTX) Optional Transmission 2: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle (ATX) Features Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Maintenance Fluid Type Auto: Mercon V (or equivalent ATF, refer to manual for exact specification and capacity) Fluid Type Manual: Refer to manual for specific gear oil type and capacity. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.2 inches (2647 mm) Length: 183.2 inches (4653 mm) Width: 69.4 inches (1763 mm) Height: 55.3 inches (1405 mm) Weights Curb Weight Estimate: 2900 - 3100 lbs (approx., varies by engine/trim) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to specific vehicle placard. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: 4-star (1996 model, refer to manual for specific year ratings) NHTSA Frontal Passenger: 4-star (1996 model, refer to manual for specific year ratings) Active Features ABS: Available on most models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags. Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on many trims. Connectivity Diagnostic Interface: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) compliant (primarily for later models in this range, earlier might be OBD-I). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions and oil type used). Timing Belt Interval: Highly critical. Typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (exact interval is crucial and must be verified in the manual). Coolant Flush: Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years....