Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1998 Ford Contour Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Test F: No Module/Network Communication
- Turn ignition off. Inspect NGS tester connector for loose, damaged or corroded terminals. Repair as necessary and retest system for normal operation. If connector is okay, go to next step.
- Inspect Data Link Connector (DLC) for physical damage, bent terminals or corrosion. Repair as necessary and retest system for normal operation. If connector is okay, go to next step.
- Remove and inspect fuse No. 28 (30-amp) from instrument panel fuse block. If fuse is blown, go to next step. If fuse is okay, reinstall fuse and go to step 5).
- Replace fuse and retest system for normal operation. Recheck fuse. If fuse is okay, go to next step. If fuse is blown, repair short to ground in circuit 29-PB9 (Orange wire) between instrument panel fuse block and DLC. Retest system for normal operation.
- Measure voltage between ground and terminal No. 16 (Orange wire) at DLC. See Figure. If voltage is more than 10 volts, go to next step. If voltage is 10 volts or less, repair circuit 29-PB9 (Orange wire) between instrument panel fuse block and DLC. Retest system for normal operation.
- Measure resistance between ground and terminals No. 4 (Black wire) and No. 5 (Black/Orange wire) at DLC. If both resistance readings are less than 5 ohms, repair or replace NGS tester. Retest system for normal operation. If any resistance reading is 5 ohms or more, repair open in Black wire or Black/Orange wire between ground and DLC. Retest system for normal operation.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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