🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Contour

Year:

1998-2000

Platform:

CDW27 (North American version of the European Ford Mondeo Mk1)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, home enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Ford Contour owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicles.

Manual Advantage:

Directly sourced from factory technician documentation, offering unparalleled accuracy and specificity compared to generic aftermarket guides.

Ease Of Use:

Single, easy-to-use PDF format eliminates the need to flip through multiple physical books; searchable text functionality for quick information retrieval.

Content Format:

Includes step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, clear illustrations, comprehensive wiring schematics, and critical specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All U.S. and Canadian Ford Contour models manufactured between 1998 and 2000.

Secondary Coverage:

Specific coverage for all engine and transmission variants offered within these model years.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific version, but typically between 1500-3000 pages for a complete factory service manual set.

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS.

Download Speed:

Indicates a 'Speed Download' feature for efficient file transfer.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, emission controls, ignition system, starting and charging systems, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch.

Chassis Systems:

Driveshaft, differential, front and rear suspension, steering system (including power steering), brake system (including parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Body electrical, instrument cluster, lighting, wipers and washers, horn, audio/visual systems, power locks, cruise control, supplemental restraint system (SRS), engine immobilizer, multiplex communication (CAN).

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control (air conditioning), interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, engine hood.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnostics, and component testing procedures.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks such as fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, and tune-ups.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and fluid specifications to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhauls, and complete electrical system troubleshooting.

Schematic Detail:

Full color, highly detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, ground points, and connector pinouts, essential for accurate troubleshooting.

Body Repair:

Instructions for body panel repair, alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior and exterior trim replacement, and associated hardware.

Emission Control Systems:

Detailed explanation and repair procedures for EVAP system, catalytic converter, EGR, and other emissions-related components.

OBD Ii Information:

Information on OBD-II diagnostic connectors, generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes, and scan tool usage.

HVAC System:

Comprehensive coverage of A/C system components, refrigerant handling, leak detection, component replacement, and performance testing.

Brake System Details:

Disc brake component identification, service procedures, fluid specifications (DOT 3), bleeding procedures, and ABS system diagnostics.

Power Steering System:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion unit, fluid type and capacity, and troubleshooting steering system issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are fully printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Image Enhancement:

Images and diagrams can be enlarged for detailed viewing and printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format, user selects paper type upon printing)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L Zetec-R DOHC 4-cylinder and 2.5L Duratec V6 (including the GL, SE, and Sport models).

2.0L Zetec-R Power:

Approx. 125 hp @ 5500 rpm

2.5L Duratec V6 Power:

Approx. 170 hp @ 6250 rpm (for standard V6) and 195 hp @ 6600 rpm (for SE V6 and Sport models with optional 24-valve engine in later years).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection.

Spark Plug Recommendation:

Specific recommendations for plug type, gap, and torque found within the manual (e.g., Champion, Motorcraft).

Engine Code Examples:

Common engine codes for the Zetec might include 'Z' and for the Duratec V6 'Y'.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., MTX-75).

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AX4N).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercon V (for AX4N automatic) or specific manual transmission fluid as per Ford specifications.

Clutch Specifications:

Detailed procedures for clutch inspection, replacement, and flywheel resurfacing/replacement.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

105.9 inches (2690 mm)

Overall Length:

186.9 inches (4747 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg), varying by engine and trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

The manual will contain detailed information on the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including airbag deployment and servicing, and potentially references to NHTSA or IIHS ratings of the era.

Passive Safety Systems:

Front airbags, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, side-impact door beams, and crumple zones.

Active Safety Systems:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), optional traction control on some V6 models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo systems with cassette and CD player options. Manual covers radio removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting.

Cruise Control:

Components and diagnostic procedures for the electronic cruise control system are covered.

Multiplex Communication:

Detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic information for the multiplex/CAN communication systems used for data transfer between modules.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual will specify exact interval and oil quality grade.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial interval for Zetec engines: typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years. Manual will detail procedures and necessary components.

Engine Oil Specification:

Owner's manual and service manual will specify API service classification (e.g., SG, SH, SJ) and viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) based on ambient temperature.

Coolant Specification:

Ford Premium Gold Coolant or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Common Contor Issues:

The manual will address known issues such as front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), rear wheel bearing failures, O2 sensor failures, and potential coolant leaks in V6 engines.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive torque values for cylinder head bolts, main bearings, wheel lug nuts, suspension components, and more are meticulously detailed.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Will specify OEM and/or aftermarket equivalent part numbers (e.g., Motorcraft FL-820-S or equivalent).

Air Filter Part Number:

Will specify OEM and/or aftermarket equivalent part numbers.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Sedan Heritage:

The Contour was part of Ford's strategy to offer more European-influenced designs in North America, building on the success of the Taurus.

Contour Generations:

This manual covers the first and only generation of the North American Ford Contour (1995-2000), specifically focusing on the updated models from 1998-2000 which saw minor styling and feature revisions.

Manufacturing Location:

Kansas City Assembly Plant, Claycomo, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

The Ford Contour was notably named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 1995, highlighting its chassis dynamics and performance for its class.