🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Contour Year: 1997 Generation First Generation Start: 1995 First Generation End: 2000 Codes Platform Code: CDW27 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact/Mid-size Sedan, European-influenced Design Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626 Key Features Design Philosophy: European styling and handling cues inspired by the Ford Mondeo Powertrain Options: Emphasis on V6 engine option for improved performance over base inline-4 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Markets Covered: North America (USA, Canada) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Digital Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: All Engine Variants (Duratec V6, Zetec Inline-4) Transmission: Automatic (AX4N, AX4S), Manual (MTX-75) Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Disc (ABS available) Suspension: Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Independent Electrical: Complete Electrical Schematics, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation Fuel System: Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Pressure Regulator Cooling System: Radiator, Thermostat, Water Pump, Cooling Fan Exhaust System: Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers Steering: Power Steering System, Steering Column HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (A/C) Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Charts Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Service Diagnostics: OBD-II Diagnostics, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing Installation: Component Installation Procedures Technical Depth Depth: Complete Factory Diagnostic, Repair, and Maintenance Procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Printability: Fully Printable (Single pages or entire manual) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) Licensing Usage Rights: Lifetime Use on Unlimited Devices Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows & macOS Compatible ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine 1997: 2.0L DOHC I4 Zetec-E (SPI) Optional Engine 1997: 2.5L DOHC V6 Duratec (Mondeo-derived) Performance 2.0L Zetec-E Horsepower: 125 hp @ 5500 rpm 2.0L Zetec-E Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm 2.5L Duratec V6 Horsepower: 170 hp @ 6250 rpm 2.5L Duratec V6 Torque: 162 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Engine Codes 2.0L Zetec Code: ZVH (or equivalent Zetec-E variant) 2.5L Duratec V6 Code: Taurus SHO derived (VIN code X) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission 2.0L: 5-Speed Manual (MTX-75) Standard Transmission 2.5L V6: 4-Speed Automatic (AX4N) Optional Optional Transmission 2.0L: 4-Speed Automatic (AX4S) Optional Transmission 2.5L V6: 5-Speed Manual (MTX-75) Features Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Mercon V (or equivalent) Manual Transmission Fluid Type: WSD-M2C200-B (or equivalent) 75W-90 Synthetic 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.3 inches (2649 mm) Length: 185.8 inches (4719 mm) Width: 70.2 inches (1783 mm) Height: 55.5 inches (1410 mm) Weights Curb Weight Est Base: 2950 lbs (1338 kg) Curb Weight Est V6: 3150 lbs (1429 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est: 4250 lbs (1928 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 13.7 cu ft (388 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Frontal Impact: ★★★★☆ (4/5) NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal Impact: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Active Features ABS: Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, Optional CD Player Speaker Configuration: 4 or 6 speaker systems depending on trim Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims Connectivity Onboard Diagnostics: OBD-II compliant (post-1996) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Synthetic: 7,500 miles or 6 months Engine Coolant Flush: Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (first service), then every 50,000 miles or 2.5 years thereafter Transmission Fluid Change Automatic: Every 60,000 miles or 3 years (under normal driving conditions) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic Recommended) Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter Coolant Type: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent HOAT Known Issues Common Issues Description: Interior door handle failures (plastic fatigue), heater core leaks, EGR valve issues (Zetec), transmission solenoid issues (AX4S/AX4N), wheel bearing failures, early model transmission control module (TCM) failures. Interior Door Handles: Common failure point due to plastic degradation, replacement recommended with updated metal versions. Heater Core: Prone to leaks, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Ford Global Platforms: Contour was part of Ford's global 'one Ford' strategy, based on the European Mondeo platform Model Evolution Mid Cycle Refresh: Minor styling updates for 1998 model year, not applicable to 1997. Production Assembly Location: Kansas City Assembly Plant, Claycomo, Missouri, USA Production Years: 1995-2000 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Iconic Aspect: Praised for European-like ride and handling in its class, especially with the V6 engine.