🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Contour

Model Variant:

Mystique

Year:

1998

Vin Decoder Reference:

Refer to manual for VIN decoding specific to 1998 Ford Contour/Mystique.

Generation Identifier:

First Generation (1995-2000)

Generation Specific Note:

This manual is specifically for the 1998 model year, ensuring precise data for that production period.

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sedan, positioned as a more European-influenced offering from Ford.

Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Stratus/Cirrus.

Key Differentiators:

European styling and chassis tuning (shared platform with Ford Mondeo), distinctive interior design, multiple engine options.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs by empowering owners to perform tasks themselves, ensuring long-term vehicle usability.

Manual Accessibility:

User-friendly PDF format with search functionality and bookmarks, no proprietary software needed.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive factory workshop service and repair

Specific Systems Listed:

General Information, Chassis, Powertrain, Electrical, Body and Paint, Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated based on depth of coverage; typically 1500-2500+ pages for a complete OEM workshop manual.

Type:

OEM Workshop Repair Manual

Purpose:

DIY Repair, Professional Service

Language:

English

Format Delivery:

Single PDF file

Digital Requirements:

No software installation required; compatible with standard PDF viewers.

📖 Manual Coverage

Chassis Components:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Wheel & Tires, Driveline System (Drive Shaft, Rear Axle/Differential), Brake System (Front/Rear Discs, Parking Brake, Hydraulic/Power Actuation, Vehicle Dynamics), Steering System (Gear, Pump, Hoses, Column, Airbag Sliding Contact)

Powertrain Components:

Engine System, Cooling System (Engine/Supercharger), Fuel Charging & Control, Accessory Drive, Starting System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Intake Air Distribution, Evaporative Emissions, Electronic Engine Controls, Transaxle/Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Exhaust System (Muffler, Catalytic Converter), Fuel System (Tank, Lines, Speed/Acceleration Control)

Electrical Components:

Climate Control, Instrument Cluster/Panel Illumination, Charging System, Entertainment System, Lighting, Module Communications Network, Anti-Theft System

Body Paint Components:

Front End Panels, Body Closures, Interior/Exterior Trim, Mirrors, Seating, Glass/Mechanisms, Instrument Panel/Console, Handles/Locks/Latches, Wipers/Washers, Bumpers, Safety Belt System, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Convertible Top

Diagnostic Procedures:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for steering, ignition, engine controls, and more. Troubleshooting guides for various systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements), brake service, suspension alignment checks, ignition system checks, charging system tests.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for engine components, transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, and body panels. Includes exploded views and torque specifications.

Installation Procedures:

Installation guidelines for components such as steering wheel, airbag module, climate control units, audio systems.

Depth Level:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures, and specifications for diagnosing malfunctions across all major vehicle systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Likely includes procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed component specifications and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Primary Format:

PDF

File Size:

Approximately 100 MB

Searchability:

Fully searchable text with bookmarks for easy navigation.

Printability:

Printable sections for on-the-go use during repairs.

Image Quality:

High-quality images and diagrams consistent with OEM standards.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1998:

2.0L Zetec-4-cylinder, 2.5L Duratec V6

Engine Code 2 0L:

Zetec-E (DOHC 16-valve)

Engine Code 2 5L:

Duratec (DOHC 24-valve)

Hp 2 0L Zetec:

Approx. 125 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 2 0L Zetec:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Hp 2 5L Duratec:

Approx. 170 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque 2 5L Duratec:

Approx. 163 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Fuel Delivery System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (often paired with 2.0L Zetec)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (AX4S/AX4N, often paired with 2.5L Duratec)

Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled automatic transmission, manual transmission with clutch assembly.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.2 inches

Length:

Approx. 187.2 inches

Width:

Approx. 69.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.6 inches

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (depending on engine and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1998:

Refer to the manual for specific NHTSA crash test ratings for the 1998 model. General safety features were standard.

Passive Restraint Systems:

Dual front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced body structure.

Optional Safety Features:

Side airbags (less common in 1998), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Active Safety Systems:

Power-assisted brakes, power steering, available ABS.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player; optional CD player. Limited by 1998 standards.

Display Technology:

Basic analog gauges and digital odometer. No advanced infotainment screens.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primarily focused on basic safety: ABS, power steering. No electronic stability control or advanced driver aids.

Connectivity Options:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Antennas for radio reception.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, consult manual for specific oil type and viscosity.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Check and change fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Manual transmission clutch wear is a factor.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter, or as per manual recommendations for specific coolant type.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 5W-20 depending on engine).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercon V or equivalent for automatic transmissions; manual transmission fluid (MTF) specification will vary.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues Zetec:

Head gasket leaks, intake manifold runner control (IMRC) issues, occasional ignition coil failures.

Common Issues Duratec:

Less prone to head gasket issues than Zetec; potential for occasional sensor failures.

Chassis Issues:

Subframe mounts can wear, leading to knocking sounds; some HVAC blend door actuator failures.

Electrical Issues:

Interior lighting failures, power window regulator issues, occasional PCM (Powertrain Control Module) glitches.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Heritage Context:

Ford's long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles, with a focus on adapting European designs for the North American market in the late 90s.

Contour Introduction:

Introduced in 1995 as a replacement for the Ford Tempo, aiming for a more modern and sophisticated appeal.

Mystique Variant:

The Mystique was essentially a badge-engineered version of the Ford Contour, primarily sold through Mercury dealerships, offering slightly different styling cues and feature packaging.

Production Plant:

Kansas City Assembly Plant, Claycomo, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Notable Awards:

The Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique platform received some positive reviews for its handling and European driving feel upon introduction, though sales and long-term perception were mixed compared to segment leaders.

Consumer Reports Reputation:

Consumer Reports and other automotive publications often cited reliability concerns, particularly with the early Zetec engines and automatic transmissions, influencing its market perception.