1995 Ford Contour

Introduction:

The 1995 Ford Contour is a compact sedan available with two engine options: a 2.0L Zetec I4 and a 2.5L Duratec V6. The 2.0L I4 produces 125 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L V6 produces 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Contour is praised for its responsive handling, comfortable interior, and affordable price point. However, it has been criticized for its lack of performance and cramped rear seats.

Engine

2.0L Zetec I4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold area, engine overheating, or decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can break or slip, causing the engine to lose power and potentially resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner according to the recommended maintenance schedule.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Duratec V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover area, often visible as a wet or oily appearance under the valve cover.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: 96V124000
• Exhaust Manifold Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: A crack in the exhaust manifold can cause an exhaust leak, resulting in a loud noise and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:

• Transmission Slipping:

  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar End Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when turning or driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, such as flickering lights, power window failure, or instrument panel malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific electrical component causing the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Plastic Hood Panel Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic panel on the hood can become brittle and crack over time.
  • Solution: Replace the plastic hood panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may fail, resulting in no airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks or discolorations over time.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1995 Ford Contour has some issues to consider, including intake manifold gasket failure, valve cover gasket leaks, and plastic hood panel deterioration. The estimated repair costs for these issues range from $200 to $2,500 or more. While these issues can be inconvenient and costly to fix, they are generally not considered catastrophic or fatal to the vehicle’s operation.