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
Fuel Pressure
WARNING:
ALWAYS relieve fuel pressure before disconnecting any fuel injection-related component. DO NOT allow fuel to contact engine or electrical components. See FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE
.
- Visually inspect fuel system, including fuel lines, connections, injectors and electrical connections. Ensure Inertia Fuel Shutoff (IFS) switch is not tripped. Check condition of battery and fuses. Ensure fuel level in tank is sufficient.
- Turn ignition off. Release fuel pressure. Install fuel pressure gauge. Start engine and increase engine speed to 2500 RPM. If engine will not start, cycle ignition switch several times. Measure and record fuel pressure. For fuel pressure specifications, see FUEL PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS article. If fuel pressure is within specification, go to next step. If fuel pressure is not within specification, go to CIRCUIT TEST HC in TESTS W/CODES - 2.0L article for fuel system diagnosis.
- With fuel pressure gauge still installed, cycle ignition switch on and off several times. Record fuel pressure. If fuel pressure is at least 25 psi (172 kPa) after one minute with ignition off, system is capable of maintaining fuel pressure. If fuel pressure is not at least 25 psi after one minute with ignition off, check for leaking fuel injectors or fuel pressure regulator.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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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