Section 92 (Computer Relearn Procedures): Introduction

1997 Ford Contour LX, 2.5 L, StandardSECTION Introduction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 24 other vehicles, including the 1998 Mercury Villager, 1998 Mercury Tracer, 1998 Mercury Sable, 1998 Mercury Mystique, and 1998 Mercury Mountaineer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Vehicles equipped with engine or transmission/transaxle computers may require a computer relearn procedure after the vehicle battery is disconnected. Vehicle computers memorize and store vehicle operation patterns for optimum driveability and performance. When the vehicle battery is disconnected, this memory is lost, resulting in a driveability problem. Depending on the vehicle and how it is equipped, the following driveability problems may exist:

  • Rough or unstable idle.
  • Hesitation or stumble.
  • Rich or lean running.
  • Poor fuel mileage.
  • Harsh or poor transmission/transaxle shift quality.

Default data is used until NEW data from each key start is stored. As the computer restores its memory from each new key start, driveability is restored.

Driveability problems may occur during the computer relearn stage. To accelerate computer relearn process after battery removal and installation, specified computer relearn procedures should be performed.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.