Originally posted by horseydug:
Check your trunk for damage to backup light wiring.
Short of time last night, let me expand on above.
Shorts a little harder to find than open cicuits and usually cost you a few fuses in process. You have to isolate the problem portion of circuit by disconnecting wires. In your case if physical check reveals nothing obvious, then disconnect electrical connector at left hinge of trunk. If that doesn't work then there is an 8 pin connctor above interior fuse panel that could also be disconnected. This connector has 5 wires going to it colored; p/o, o, o/w, p/bk, o/y. Post again if you need help locating this connector.
Re: speedo cable. Early Contours had mech speedo, later electrical. As I recall from reading old forum posts on replacement it is in 2 parts. One from speedo to other side of firewall, and then from there to speed sensor on transmission. Probably a DIY job, but difficult access to both ends and middle. Dealer probably allowing 2hrs labor + parts.
