Market Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan, aimed at the import sedan market with a European driving feel.
Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant, Volkswagen Passat.
Contoured Design:
Contour's design emphasized a blend of European styling cues and American market practicality.
Driving Dynamics:
Known for its well-tuned suspension and responsive handling, often compared favorably to European counterparts.
Convenience:
Online, accessible from any internet-enabled device, eliminating the need for physical storage or outdated printed formats.
Cost Effectiveness:
Provides significant savings compared to dealership service or purchasing multiple physical manuals.
Currency:
Provides a full year of access, with options for extended coverage, ensuring up-to-date information.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (digitally comprehensive, equivalent to 1000+ printed pages)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software (Digital)
Format:
Web-based Software/Application
Engine Systems:
2.0L Zetec-R DOHC I4, 2.5L Duratec V6 (KL-DE), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Emission Controls
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-Wheel Drive, Automatic Transaxle (AX4N), Manual Transaxle (MTX-75), Clutch, Drive Axles, CV Joints
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Independent Multi-link Suspension, Power Rack and Pinion Steering, Wheel Alignment
Brake Systems:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Fluid Specifications
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Power Windows, Power Locks, Charging System, Starting System, Battery, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
HVAC Systems:
Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls, Refrigerant Specifications
Body Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Pad Replacement, Tire Rotation, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Trouble Code Retrieval and Interpretation, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Repair Procedures:
Engine Component Replacement (e.g., Alternator, Starter, Water Pump), Transmission Service, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and full component-level repairs. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and detailed step-by-step instructions.
Access Method:
Internet Browser (PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet)
Digital Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and text for clarity
Digital Interface:
User-friendly, searchable interface
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, OE Material Derived
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1988 cc)
Engine 1 Type:
DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (Zetec-R)
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
125 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2544 cc)
Engine 2 Type:
DOHC 24-valve V6 (Duratec-VE / Mazda KL-DE)
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
170 hp @ 6250 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum Recommended)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (1997 models)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (1997 models)
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side-Impact Door Beams, Crumple Zones
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM Stereo Radio with Cassette Player and optional CD Player. Analog climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic driver aids like power steering and optional ABS.
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Antennas for radio reception.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years (using appropriate coolant).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: 60,000-100,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed or at higher mileage intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (Mercon recommended for AX4N)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant for MTX-75.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues:
Idle Air Control (IAC) valve issues causing rough idle or stalling, ignition coil pack failures (leading to misfires), front suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), occasional transmission control module (TCM) issues.
Ford Heritage:
Ford has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles for diverse markets.
Contour Development:
Developed as part of Ford's 'Global Platform' strategy, sharing its CDW27 platform with the European Ford Mondeo.
Production Start:
1994 (for the 1995 model year)
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA
