🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Contour

Year:

1999

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Product Name:

1999 Ford Contour Service And Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Ford Contour owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, as well as professional mechanics

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, model-specific repair information to save time and money on vehicle maintenance and repairs

Differentiation:

Distinguished from generic repair guides by its factory-specific detail and comprehensive A-Z coverage

Key Selling Points:

Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications, printable, searchable (within PDF features)

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

Covers all models and all repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500 pages (typical for this era's factory manuals in PDF format, though exact count not specified)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows and Mac

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable

Additional Software:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, overhaul (including cylinder heads, blocks, pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, timing components)

Engine Control:

Engine control systems, fuel injection, ignition systems, sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), powertrain control module (PCM) operation

Fuel System:

Fuel delivery, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions controls related to fuel system

Emission Control:

Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP), secondary air injection (if applicable)

Cooling Intake Exhaust:

Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, muffler, catalytic converter

Lubrication:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, lubrication system components and procedures

Ignition Starting Charging:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring

Automatic Transmission:

Automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, torque converter, shift controls

Manual Transmission:

Manual transmission service, repair, clutch system, flywheel, gearbox components

Drivetrain:

Drive shafts, CV joints, propeller shafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, steering column

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, repair, hydraulic components, ABS system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake system

Wheels Tires:

Tire and wheel specifications, mounting, balancing, lug nut torque specifications

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, recharge, heating system, climate controls, cabin air filter

Safety Systems:

Supplemental restraint system (SRS) including airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS warning light diagnosis and repair

Electrical System:

Complete electrical system coverage, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges, instruments, accessories, body electrical components

Body Exterior:

Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, mirrors, exterior trim, bumpers

Body Interior:

Interior trim, seats, dashboard, instrument panel, door panels, headliner, carpeting

Multiplex Can Communication:

Coverage of multiplex communication systems and CAN bus architecture (where applicable for 1999 models)

Cruise Control:

Cruise control system operation, diagnosis, and repair

Wipers Washers:

Wiper and washer system components and electrical circuits

Door Locks:

Door lock mechanisms, power door locks, keyless entry systems (if equipped)

Meter Audio Visual:

Instrument cluster, gauges, audio system, speakers, diagnostic displays

Horn:

Horn system operation and troubleshooting

Windshield Glass Mirror:

Windshield replacement, repair, power mirrors, heated mirrors (if equipped)

Instrument Panel:

Instrument panel removal, installation, and component servicing

Seats:

Seat removal, installation, adjustment mechanisms, power seats (if equipped)

Engine Hood Door:

Engine hood and door latches, hinges, and operation

Immobilizer:

Engine immobilizer system operation and troubleshooting

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for every component and system

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing all vehicle components

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics

Content Type:

Specific to model, not generic; exact same manual used by dealership technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Resolution:

High resolution, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and illustrations

Zoom Capability:

Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies

Binding:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding

Paper Considerations:

Printable on demand, reducing wear and tear on original source material; user chooses paper type for printing

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes 2.0L Zetec DOHC I4 and 2.5L Duratec DOHC V6 (standard for Ghia/SE/Sport trims)

Horsepower Torque 2 0L:

Approximately 125 hp / 130 lb-ft torque (estimate based on common configurations)

Horsepower Torque 2 5L:

Approximately 170 hp / 175 lb-ft torque (estimate based on common configurations)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Available Transmission Types:

5-speed Manual (MTX-75) and 4-speed Automatic (AX4S or AX4N)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (often linked to higher trim levels or specific engine options)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (check specific manual for exact specification)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, likely 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.2 inches (2647 mm)

Length:

Approximately 180.5 inches (4585 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.2 inches (1402 mm)

Curb Weight:

Curb weight varies by model and engine, typically ranging from 3,000 to 3,300 lbs (1360-1497 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

GVWR varies by model, typically around 4,200 - 4,400 lbs (1905-2000 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Towing capacity is generally not recommended or specified for the Ford Contour.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

Good (for driver and passenger) in NHTSA frontal offset crash tests (IIHS ratings may differ)

IIHS Offset Crash Rating:

Acceptable or Good (depending on specific IIHS test year and criteria for the Contour's generation)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, Traction Control (optional on some models)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (optional on some trims), seat belt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, optional Traction Control, Cruise Control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by 1999 standards. No factory Bluetooth or USB ports. Antennas for radio reception.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years (refer to manual for exact interval and coolant type)

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval and filter replacement recommendations)

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval)

Engine Oil Type 2 0L:

5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated)

Engine Oil Type 2 5L:

5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated)

Engine Coolant:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Common Issues:

Examples include transmission problems (especially automatics), heater core leaks, front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), idle air control valve issues, and occasional electrical gremlins. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford History Context:

Ford's strategy to introduce a European-designed platform (based on the Mondeo) to the North American market.

First Generation:

The 1999 model is part of the first generation of the Ford Contour, introduced for the 1995 model year.

Facelift Update:

The 1999 model year received a minor facelift, including updated styling elements and interior enhancements.

Production Location:

Assembled at the Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri, USA.

Production Years:

1995-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The Ford Contour was featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1995 and 1996, indicating a positive initial reception for its chassis and handling characteristics.