Page 205 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 208
*
[SV12200(ALL)05/95]4.
Use these equations to calculate your fuel economy:
*
[SV12250(ALL)05/95]
n
English: MPGU(total miles driven)V(gallons used)
*
[SV12275(ALL)05/95]
n
Metric: L/100kU(liters FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 208
*
[SV12200(ALL)05/95]4.
Use these equations to calculate your fuel economy:
*
[SV12250(ALL)05/95]
n
English: MPGU(total miles driven)V(gallons used)
*
[SV12275(ALL)05/95]
n
Metric: L/100kU(liters](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-204.png)
208
*
[SV12200(ALL)05/95]4.
Use these equations to calculate your fuel economy:
*
[SV12250(ALL)05/95]
n
English: MPGU(total miles driven)V(gallons used)
*
[SV12275(ALL)05/95]
n
Metric: L/100kU(liters used)V(100 kilometers)
%*
[SV12300(ALL)05/95]
Comparisons With EPA Fuel Economy Estimates
*
[SV12400(ALL)05/95]
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from laboratory tests
under simulated road conditions and may not reflect the actual
conditions you experience or your style of driving. The EPA
fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that you will achieve
the fuel economy shown.
*
[SV12610(ALL)05/95]
The following decrease fuel economy:
*
[SV12615(ALL)05/95]
n
Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance
*
[SV12625(ALL)05/95]
n
Rapid acceleration and excessive speed
*
[SV12630(ALL)05/95]
n
Driving with your foot on the brake
*
[SV12635(ALL)05/95]
n
Sudden stops
*
[SV12640(ALL)05/95]
n
Extended engine idling
*
[SV12645(ALL)05/95]
n
Using speed control in hilly terrain
*
[SV12650(ALL)05/95]
n
Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear window defroster
and other accessories
*
[SV12655(ALL)05/95]
n
Underinflated tires
*
[SV12660(ALL)05/95]
n
Heavy loads
*
[SV12665(ALL)05/95]
n
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage racks, bug
deflectors, etc.
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Page 207 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 210
*
[SV13670(ALL)01/95]
Neveruse:
*
[SV13680(ALL)01/95]
n
ªNon-Detergentº oils
*
[SV13690(ALL)04/95]
n
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
%*
[SV13700(ALL)01/95]
n
Additional engine oil FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 210
*
[SV13670(ALL)01/95]
Neveruse:
*
[SV13680(ALL)01/95]
n
ªNon-Detergentº oils
*
[SV13690(ALL)04/95]
n
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
%*
[SV13700(ALL)01/95]
n
Additional engine oil](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-206.png)
210
*
[SV13670(ALL)01/95]
Neveruse:
*
[SV13680(ALL)01/95]
n
ªNon-Detergentº oils
*
[SV13690(ALL)04/95]
n
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
%*
[SV13700(ALL)01/95]
n
Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine
treatments
[SV13710(ALL)04/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity arePREFERREDfor
your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel
economy and engine protection for all climates down to-15ÊF
(-25ÊC).
%*
[SV13770(ALL)03/95]
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of the preferred
viscosity may be used in your engine. The engine oil and oil
filter must still be changed according to the maintenance
schedule.
*
[SV13775(ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800(ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is important for safe
engine operation, check the oil using the dipstick each time you
put fuel in your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off, the
oil must be warm and the vehicle must be parked on level
ground.
*
[SV13900(ALL)04/95]
Checking the engine oil level:
*
[SV14000(ALL)02/95]1.
Turn the engine off after it has warmed up and allow a few
minutes for the engine oil to drain back into the oil pan.
*
[SV14050(ALL)05/94]2.
Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift
is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
1 (First) (manual transaxle).
*
[SV14100(ALL)02/95]3.
Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat.
*
[SV14200(ALL)03/95]4.
Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in yellow) and
carefully pull it out of the engine.
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Page 216 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Contour
219
[SV20660(ALL)06/95]
Disconnecting the Battery
[SV20675(ALL)02/95]
Because your vehicle engine is electronically controlled by a
computer, some control conditions are maintai FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Contour
219
[SV20660(ALL)06/95]
Disconnecting the Battery
[SV20675(ALL)02/95]
Because your vehicle engine is electronically controlled by a
computer, some control conditions are maintai](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-215.png)
Servicing Your Contour
219
[SV20660(ALL)06/95]
Disconnecting the Battery
[SV20675(ALL)02/95]
Because your vehicle engine is electronically controlled by a
computer, some control conditions are maintained by power
from the battery. If you ever disconnect the battery or install a
new battery, you must allow the computer to ªrelearnº its idle
conditions before your vehicle will drive properly. To begin this
process, put the gearshift in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
Neutral (manual transaxle), set the emergency brake, turn off all
the accessories, and start the vehicle. Bring the engine to normal
operating temperature. Allow the manual transaxle to idle for
one minute in Neutral. Allow the automatic transaxle engine to
idle for one minute in N (Neutral) and one minute in D (Drive).
Perform the previous procedure with the air conditioning (if
equipped) on and off (conditions permitting). The relearning
process will complete automatically as you drive the vehicle.
*
[SV20700(ALL)03/95]
If you do not let the engine relearn its idle, the idle quality of
your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle is
relearned. Your vehicle will eventually relearn its idle while you
drive it, but it takes much longer than if you use the previous
procedure.
*
[SV21700(ALL)03/95]
Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers
*
[SV21800(ALL)03/95]
Washer Fluid
*
[SV22100(ALL)01/95]
Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every time you
stop for fuel. The reservoir for washer fluid is located on the
passenger's side of the engine compartment. Visual inspection
can determine if the washer fluid is adequate. Do not operate
the washer when the reservoir is empty.
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Page 226 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Contour
229
*
[SV29151(ALL)05/94]
n
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
%*
[SV29200(ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Contour
229
*
[SV29151(ALL)05/94]
n
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
%*
[SV29200(ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-225.png)
Servicing Your Contour
229
*
[SV29151(ALL)05/94]
n
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
%*
[SV29200(ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the Wheels
*
[SV29225(ALL)05/95]
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to wash your
vehicle's body. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool,
abrasives, fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to
remove grease and tar.
*
[SV29250(ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are
abrasive.
*
[SV29300(ALL)03/01]
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
*
[SV29310(ALL)03/95]
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid
level of the transaxle, since your vehicle does not use up
transaxle fluid. Refer to theMaintenance Schedule and Record
booklet for replacement intervals. However, if the transaxle is
not working properly Ð for instance, the transaxle may slip or
shift slowly, or you may notice some sign of fluid leakage Ð
the fluid level should be checked.
%*
[SV29340(ALL)02/93]
Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid
*
[SV29350(ALL)01/95]
With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake fully applied,
start the engine and move the gear shift selector through all of
the gears allowing sufficient time for each position to engage.
Securely latch the gear shift selector in the P (Park) position.
Fully set the parking brake and leave the engine running.
*
[SV29370(ALL)01/95]
Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out. Wipe the
indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and
make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the
fluid level.
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Page 229 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 232
*
[SV30200(ALL)03/95]
Brake Fluid
*
[SV30300(ALL)04/95]
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up
brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid
to slowly fall FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 232
*
[SV30200(ALL)03/95]
Brake Fluid
*
[SV30300(ALL)04/95]
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up
brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid
to slowly fall](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-228.png)
232
*
[SV30200(ALL)03/95]
Brake Fluid
*
[SV30300(ALL)04/95]
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up
brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid
to slowly fall as you put more mileage on your vehicle and the
brake lining wears.
[SV30401(ALL)02/94]
You should check the brake fluid at every scheduled engine oil
change, but be sure to check it at least once a year. You can do
this by looking at the fluid level in the plastic reservoir on the
master cylinder. (SeeThe Engine Typesin this chapter to locate
the brake fluid reservoir.) The fluid level should be at or near
the MAX mark.
*
[SV30450(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
*
[SV30475(ALL)06/95]
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for
15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken
internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical
attention immediately.
*
[SV30500(ALL)03/95]
If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the cap from the
reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High
Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AA or equivalent
DOT 3 fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A.
*
[SV30800(ALL)01/95]
RWARNING
If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will
cause permanent damage to your brakes.
*
[SV30900(ALL)01/95]
Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line.
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Page 230 of 286
Servicing Your Contour
233
*
[SV31000(ALL)01/95]
If you find that the fluid level is excessively low Ð below the
seam or ridge on the outside of the plastic reservoir Ð have the
brake system inspected.
*
[SV31100(ALL)01/95]
RWARNING
Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry.
This may cause the brakes to fail.
[SV31130(ALL)02/94]
10-1/2 pica
art:0000671-B
The brake fluid reservoir
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Page 241 of 286
![FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 244the circuit breakers continue to cut off electricity, have your
vehicles electrical system checked.
*
[SV37200(ALL)02/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the same
amperage rating. T FORD CONTOUR 1996 2.G Owners Manual 244the circuit breakers continue to cut off electricity, have your
vehicles electrical system checked.
*
[SV37200(ALL)02/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the same
amperage rating. T](/manual-img/11/4765/w960_4765-240.png)
244the circuit breakers continue to cut off electricity, have your
vehicle's electrical system checked.
*
[SV37200(ALL)02/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the same
amperage rating. To remove a circuit breaker mounted in the
fuse panel, grip it with your finger and thumb and pull it
straight out of its socket.
*
[SV37500(ALL)03/95]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[SV37600(ALL)01/95]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights
frequently:
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
n
headlamps
*
[SV37800(ALL)01/95]
n
tail lamps
*
[SV37900(ALL)01/95]
n
brakelamps
*
[SV37950(ALL)02/95]
n
high-mount brakelamp
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]
n
hazard flasher
*
[SV38100(ALL)01/95]
n
turn signals
*
[SV38200(ALL)01/95]
n
side markers
*
[SV38300(ALL)01/95]
n
license plate lamp
%*
[SV38400(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if:
*
[SV38500(ALL)01/95]
n
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your
vehicle's high beams when you do not have the high beams
on
*
[SV38600(ALL)01/95]
n
the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see
clearly at night
*
[SV38700(ALL)11/92]
n
the headlamps are not aligned so that they point slightly
down and to the right.
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Page 243 of 286
246
[SV40700(ALL)04/94]3.
Turn the headlamps on and make sure that they work
properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you
changed the bulb, you should not need to align it again.
*
[SV40750(ALL)02/95]
High-Mount Brakelamp Bulbs
[SV40841(ALL)02/94]
From the back seat, remove the back of the brakelamp
assembly. Depress the two retaining tabs on the ends of the
assembly and pull off the back.
[SV40843(ALL)02/94]
Turn the burned-out bulb counterclockwise and pull it out. Push
in the replacement bulb and turn it clockwise to lock it in the
socket. Replace the back of the brakelamp assembly, making
sure that the retaining tabs snap into place.
[SV40848(ALL)02/94]
17-1/2 pica
art:0000624-B
The high-mount brakelamp assembly
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Update:Thu Jan 25 12:09:28 1996