1997 FORD CONTOUR tires

Maintenance and Care
207
*
[MC21750(ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
braking (straightahead) traction tests and does not
include cornering (turning) traction.
*
[MC21800(ALL)01/96]
Temperature A B C
*
[MC21900(ALL)05/96]
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and
its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can
lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level
of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum required by law.
*
[MC21925(ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a
tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading,
either separately or in combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.
*
[MC21950(ALL)03/96]
RWARNING
Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of
loss of vehicle control. Driving at very high speeds for
extended periods of time may result in damage to vehicle
components.
File:11cdmco.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:08:18 1996

208
%*
[MC22000(ALL)01/96]
Snow Tires and Chains
*
[MC22100(ALL)01/96]
During the winter months in some climates, you may need to
use snow tires and occasionally chains for your tires.
*
[MC22200(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires
you currently have on your vehicle.
*
[MC22300(ALL)01/96]
Use chains on the tires only in an emergency or if the law
requires them where you live. If you choose to use chains on
your vehicle's tires, be aware of the following:
*
[MC22400(ALL)01/96]
n
Tire chains may scratch or chip aluminum wheels. IT IS
RECOMMENDED THAT TIRE CHAINS ARE INSTALLED
ON STEEL WHEELS ONLY. Be sure to remove wheel
covers (if equipped) from steel rims before using tire chains
to avoid scratches or damage.
[MC22500(ALL)12/95]
n
Tire chains cannot be fitted with 205/60R tires.
*
[MC22600(ALL)01/96]
n
Local regulations may prohibit or restrict the use of tire
chains. Investigate the laws and regulations in your area
before installing chains.
*
[MC22700(ALL)01/96]
n
Put the chains on the front tires tightly with the ends held
down securely. Retighten the chains after driving 1/2 mile
(1 km). Follow the chain manufacturer's instructions.
*
[MC22800(ALL)01/96]
n
Do not drive faster than 30 mph (50 km/h) or the chain
manufacturer's recommended speed limit, whichever is
lower. Avoid bumps, holes and sharp turns. If you can hear
the chains rub or bang against your vehicle, remove the
chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
File:11cdmco.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:08:18 1996

Maintenance and Care
209
*
[MC22900(ALL)01/96]
n
Tire chains may affect vehicle handling. Drive carefully and
avoid hard braking.
*
[MC23000(ALL)01/96]
n
Do not use chains on temporary spare tires. They may
damage the vehicle and the tire.
*
[MC23100(ALL)01/96]
n
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
%*
[MC23200(ALL)01/96]
Filling the Fuel Tank
*
[MC23900(ALL)12/95]
The fuel door is outside the car on the passenger side near the
back. To fill the fuel tank:
*
[MC24000(ALL)03/96]1.
After opening the fuel filler door, remove the cap carefully
and slowly by turning it counterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn. If
a hissing sound is heard, wait until it stops, then continue
turning until the cap is free.
*
[MC24100(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel cap is
venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until
it stops before completely removing the cap.
*
[MC24200(ALL)01/96]2.
Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel filler pipe before
pumping the fuel.
*
[MC24300(ALL)01/96]
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of your vehicle,
clean it off immediately. The fuel may dull or soften
the paint if you do not wash it off.
File:11cdmco.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:08:18 1996

216
*
[MC29700(ALL)01/96]
n
Underinflated tires
*
[MC29800(ALL)01/96]
n
Heavy loads
*
[MC29900(ALL)01/96]
n
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage racks, bug
deflectors, etc.
*
[MC30000(ALL)12/95]
Self-Service Pointers
*
[MC30100(ALL)12/95]
If you choose to do your own fueling, you should also perform
a few simple maintenance routines. This extra effort will save
you additional money and contribute to the driving efficiency of
your vehicle.
*
[MC30200(ALL)12/95]
The following procedures require only a tire gauge, a rag, an oil
can spout and windshield washer fluid.
*
[MC30300(ALL)12/95]
n
Check the engine oil at every refueling stop
*
[MC30400(ALL)12/95]
n
Clean the windshield, outside mirrors and headlights
*
[MC30500(ALL)12/95]
n
Check windshield washer fluid
*
[MC30600(ALL)12/95]
n
Check tires for excessive wear or worn edges
*
[MC30700(ALL)12/95]
n
Check the tire pressure at least monthly
%*
[MC30800(ALL)01/96]
Emission Control System
*
[MC30900(ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter which
enables your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission
requirements.
*
[MC31000(ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of harmful and
potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
Under extreme conditions excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the fuel system, the interior floor covering,
or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.
File:11cdmco.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:08:18 1996

234
%*
[CS03400(ALL)01/96]
Battery
*
[CS03500(ALL)01/96]
n
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[CS03600(ALL)01/96]
n
Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of
grease.
*
[CS03700(ALL)12/95]
n
If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without
recharging the battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the
battery cables to ensure battery charge is maintained for
quick starting.
%*
[CS03800(ALL)01/96]
Brakes
*
[CS03900(ALL)01/96]
n
Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released.
%*
[CS04000(ALL)01/96]
Tires
*
[CS04100(ALL)01/96]
n
Maintain recommended air pressure.
*
[CS04200(ALL)01/96]
Miscellaneous
*
[CS04300(ALL)01/96]
n
Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under
vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust.
*
[CS04400(ALL)01/96]
n
Move vehicles at least 25 feet (10 m) every 15 days to
lubricate working parts to prevent corrosion.
File:12cdcso.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:08:45 1996

273
Index
Brakes (continued)
power braking................... 125
servicing...................... 188
stopping distances.................. 145
trailer....................... 143
when storing your vehicle.............. 234
Brake-shift interlock.................. 131
Break-in period..................... 5
Brights (high beams)................... 15
Bulbs, replacing.................... 219
halogen...................... 220
headlamps..................... 220
high-mount brakelamp................ 222
specifications.................... 223
C
Canada, customer assistance.............. 244
Canada, warranty information.............. 3
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) . . . 245
Capacities for refilling fluids.............. 230
Carbon monoxide in exhaust.............. 123
Car seats for children (see Child safety seats)...... 102
Cassette tape player (see Electronic sound system) . . . 38, 42
Catalytic converter................... 216
Chains, tires...................... 208
Changing a tire.................... 161
Charging system warning light.............. 14
Childproof locks..................... 71
Child safety restraints................. 100
child safety belts.................. 114
child safety seats.................. 102
Child safety seats................... 102
and air bags.................... 102
attaching with tether straps............. 113
automatic locking mode (retractor).........91,102
in front seat..................102, 104
File:cdixo.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:12:35 1996

285
Index
Restraints, safety (see Safety restraints)
adult......................... 87
child........................ 100
head......................... 83
infant.....................100, 102
Roadside assistance.................. 237
Roadside emergencies................. 149
Rotating the tires................... 204
S
Safe driving tips.................... 145
Safety belts (see Safety restraints)............. 87
Safety chains, when towing a trailer........... 143
Safety Compliance Certification Label.......... 140
Safety defects, reporting................ 235
Safety information relating to automotive fuels...... 213
Safety restraints
adjusting the safety belts............ 89,92,94
automatic locking mode................ 91
automatic locking mode (retractor)........... 91
center front lap belt.................. 93
center rear lap belt.................. 93
cleaning the safety belts............... 225
dual locking mode retractors.............. 91
extension assembly.................. 94
for adults....................... 87
for children..................... 100
for infants...................100, 102
for pregnant women................87±88
head......................... 83
lap and shoulder belts............... 87,89
lap belt........................ 93
maintenance..................... 95
proper use...................... 87
replacement...................... 95
warning light and chime................ 12
File:cdixo.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:12:35 1996

286
Safety seats for children................ 102
and air bags................... 91,102
attaching with tether straps............. 113
automatic locking mode (retractor)......... 91,102
in front seat.................... 102
in rear outboard................102, 104
in rear seat..................... 102
tether anchorage hardware.............. 114
Seat belts (see Safety restraints).............. 87
Seats.......................... 83
adjusting the seat, manual............... 84
adjusting the seats, power............... 85
child safety seats.................. 102
cleaning upholstery................. 226
head restraints.................... 83
Serial number (VIN).................. 239
Service concerns.................... 238
Servicing your vehicle................. 177
precautions when servicing............. 178
servicing when you tow............... 174
Shift-lock system................... 131
Shift positions (see Gearshift)............130, 136
Shoulder and lap belts (see Safety restraints)...... 87,89
Shoulder belts (see Safety restraints)......... 89,92
Side mirrors...................... 74
adjusting....................... 74
Sliding moon roof (see Moon roof)............ 67
Snow tires and chains................. 208
Spare tire....................... 161
changing the tire................161, 163
finding the spare.................. 162
removing the spare tire............... 162
storing the flat tire...............162, 164
temporary spare.................. 161
File:cdixo.ex
Update:Thu Sep 12 11:12:35 1996