1997 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 135

You can tell the gearshift is securely latched when the push button has popped out. In this position the gear shift selector lever cannot be moved unless the button is pushed in. Driving with a Manual Transaxle Using the Clutch In order to start the vehicle, the clutch pedal must be fully depressed to the floor. Before starting the engine, make sure the vehicle is in Neutral and the parking brake is set. After the engine starts, allow it to idle for a few seconds. Then, hold your right foot on the brake pedal and release the parking brake. With the clutch pedal depressed to the floor with your left foot, move the gearshift into 1 (First) or R (Reverse). To move the vehicle, take your right foot off the brake pedal and then slowly release the clutch pedal. (You may need to press down slowly on the accelerator at the same time that you release the clutch pedal.) Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life. Idling the Vehicle When the vehicle is stopped and the engine is running, DO NOT rest your hand on or apply any pressure to gearshift lever when the clutch pedal is not depressed. This may result in erratic engine operation. Shifting the Gears The gearshift for a manual transaxle is mounted on the floor. The gearshift can be in one of seven possible positions, as shown. 136