🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Contour

Year:

1998

Manual Product Name:

1998 Ford Contour Service And Repair Manual

Chassis Code:

CDW27 (Global Platform)

Platform:

Ford CDW27 Platform (shared with Mercury Mystique)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Ford Contour was positioned as a sporty and European-influenced compact sedan/wagon, competing against models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Cavalier. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops seeking accurate, factory-specific information.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu, and Chrysler Sebring. The Contour's unique styling and handling characteristics set it apart in this segment.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Offers significant cost savings for owners by enabling self-service repairs. Features comprehensive diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step instructions.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1998 Ford Contour.

Page Count:

Undisclosed (typically comprehensive for factory service manuals, often 1000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual (OEM Equivalent)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (digital format, printable, searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Service, diagnosis, and repair of all engine variants.

Control System:

Engine control module (ECM) and related systems, including diagnostics and reprogramming.

Mechanical:

Comprehensive mechanical repairs for engine, transmission, chassis, and body components.

Fuel Service:

Fuel system components, fuel injectors, fuel pump, pressure testing, and emissions.

Emission Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including catalytic converters, O2 sensors, and EVAP.

Intake Exhaust Cooling:

Cooling system components (radiator, thermostat, water pump), intake manifold, and exhaust system service.

Lube:

Lubrication system specifications, oil change procedures, and filter requirements.

Ignition Starting Charging:

Ignition system components, starter motor, alternator, battery service, and charging system diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission:

Service, diagnosis, and repair of automatic transmissions.

Manual Transmission:

Service, diagnosis, and repair of manual transmissions.

Transfer Propeller Shaft:

Driveshaft and universal joint service (if applicable, typically FWD, so less emphasis).

Drive Shaft:

CV axle shafts, joints, and seals.

Differential:

Front differential service and repair (integrated with transaxle).

Axle Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, struts, springs, and bushings.

Tire Wheel:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure, rotation, and balancing.

Brake Control:

Brake system hydraulics, ABS control module, and diagnostic procedures.

Brake:

Front and rear brake pad replacement, rotor servicing, caliper repair, and fluid flushing.

Parking Brake:

Parking brake system adjustment and repair.

Steering Column:

Steering column assembly, tilt/telescope mechanisms, and ignition switch.

Power Steering:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, fluid service, and leak diagnosis.

Air Condition:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant service, compressor, evaporator, and heater core repair.

Supplemental Restraint System:

Airbag system diagnosis, module replacement, and seatbelt pre-tensioners.

Seat Belt:

Seatbelt assembly inspection and replacement.

Engine Immobilizer:

Immobilizer system operation and troubleshooting (if equipped).

Cruise Control:

Cruise control system operation and repair.

Wiper Washer:

Wiper motor, linkage, and washer system service.

Door Lock:

Door lock mechanisms, power locks, and remote entry system.

Meter Audio Visual:

Instrument cluster diagnostics, audio system repair, and speaker replacement.

Horn:

Horn operation and replacement.

Windshield Glass Mirror:

Windshield replacement, mirror adjustment, and glass seals.

Instrument Panel:

Instrument panel removal, component replacement, and illumination.

Seat:

Seat adjustment mechanisms, seat trim, and power seat components (if applicable).

Engine Hood Door:

Hood and door latches, hinges, and alignment.

Exterior Interior:

Body panel repair, trim removal and installation, interior paneling.

Electrical:

Complete vehicle electrical system, including component testing, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting.

Multiplex Can Communication:

Diagnosis and troubleshooting of multiplexed electrical systems and CAN communication networks (where applicable).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.

Diagnosis:

System-specific diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, and error code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed procedures for replacing engines, transmissions, suspension parts, brake components, electrical modules, etc.

Wiring Schematics:

Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems.

Depth:

Factory-level technical depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and complex diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Supports zooming for detailed diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format - user prints and binds as desired)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format - user chooses paper type for printing)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L Zetec-R I4 and 2.5L Duratec V6.

2.0L Zetec R Hp:

125 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)

2.0L Zetec R Torque:

130 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approximate)

2.5L Duratec V6 Hp:

170 hp @ 6250 rpm (approximate)

2.5L Duratec V6 Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded) for 2.0L; 87 Octane for 2.5L (91 Octane recommended for SE Sport/Ghia V6)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (MTX-75) on 2.0L models; 5-speed manual (MTX-75) on some 2.5L models.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (AX4S/AX4N) on 2.5L V6 models.

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard across all models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

183.5 inches (4661 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

55.0 inches (1397 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

2950-3250 lbs (1338-1474 kg) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4/5 Stars (1998 Model Year)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4/5 Stars (1998 Model Year)

ABS:

Standard on all models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Available premium sound systems with multiple speakers.

Traction Control:

Optional on some V6 models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by 1998 standards. Primarily focused on vehicle diagnostics and basic electronic controls. No Bluetooth or advanced infotainment integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe service intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Motorcraft Platinum Spark Plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Motorcraft Platinum Spark Plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or ILSAC GF-2)

Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:

4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Manual Transmission Fluid (refer to manual for specific type, e.g., Motorcraft Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid or equivalent)

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Common Issues List:

CV joint wear, suspension component failures (struts, ball joints), coolant leaks (especially from intake manifold), EGR valve issues, power window regulator failures, and occasional transmission shifting problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Heritage:

Ford Motor Company, established in 1903, has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles for global markets, known for its mass-production techniques and popular models like the Model T, F-Series trucks, and Mustang.

Contour Introduction:

The Ford Contour was introduced for the 1995 model year as a successor to the Ford Tempo, based on the European Ford Mondeo platform. It was designed to offer European driving dynamics and styling to the North American market.

Production Plant:

Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri, USA.

Production Years:

1995-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Ford Contour SE V6 was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1995 and 1996.