General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Interior, Restraint System
Procedures Included
Diagnostic And Repair:
Troubleshooting, Step-by-step repair instructions based on complete disassembly
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all service and repair information
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchable:
Likely searchable text within PDF
Print Quality
Printability:
Yes, printable in its entirety or specific pages
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Software Requirements
Reader:
Adobe PDF Reader (free)
Utility:
Winzip (free online)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
Details for 2.0L Zetec and 2.5L Duratec V6 engines are expected to be covered (specifics vary by model year and trim).
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system details covered.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
Details for available manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed Getrag).
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
Details for available automatic transmissions (e.g., 4-speed AX4N).
Features
Fluid Type Est:
Mercon V or equivalent for automatic transmissions, Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manuals.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase In:
104.2
Length In:
189.7
Width In:
70.2
Height In:
55.1
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs Est:
3100-3400 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Impact Rating Est:
The Contour generally received acceptable to good ratings in frontal and side impact tests for its era, though specific ratings vary by year and test methodology.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard or optional on higher trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, with front pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Various speaker configurations.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone connectivity typical of modern vehicles.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement Miles Est:
Every 24,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles Est:
Approximately 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Est:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific year/engine).
Coolant Type Est:
Ford Super Coolant (Gold) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, cooling system issues (e.g., plastic coolant reservoir), window regulator failures, and automatic transmission control issues.
Suspension Wear Items:
Struts, ball joints, and control arm bushings are common wear items.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford Segment Focus:
Ford's effort to offer a European-style mid-size sedan in North America, based on the Mondeo platform.
Model Evolution
Platform Origin:
Based on the European Ford Mondeo.
Introduction Year:
1995 for the 1995 model year.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City Assembly, Claycomo, Missouri, USA
Production End Year:
2000
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best Mention Est:
The Contour was a runner-up for Car and Driver's 10Best in 1995.