Keep in mind , when downshifting on snow/ice in a front-wheel-drive car , this can lead to locking up the front wheels due to "compression braking" . In a rear-wheel-drive car , this is fine , since it'll lock up the rear wheels which means you can still steer . In a front-wheel-drive car , when it locks up the front wheels , you also lose steering , and that's NOT good . You're better off pushing in the clutch & using the brakes & taking advantage of something nice that came standard on your Contour/Mystique ... ANTILOCK BRAKES .

I agree 100% with Tommy about pulling out in 2nd gear & upshifting way ahead of time .

Best tip ... BLIZZAKS !!

~~~~~~~ Phil Black & Tan 2000 SVT Contour #2137 of 2150 35,000 miles & counting !