1996 Ford Contour

Introduction: The 1996 Ford Contour was a mid-size sedan offered with two engine options: a 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder and a 2.5L DOHC V6. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The Contour was praised for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and affordability. However, it also had its share of issues.

Engine

2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder (130 hp, 140 lb-ft torque)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L DOHC V6 (165 hp, 165 lb-ft torque)

• Lower Intake Manifold Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace lower intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Synchronizer Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic (AX4S)

• Transmission Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, delayed shifting, no engagement
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise over bumps, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical components, dashboard malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace body control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Handle breaks or sticks, door cannot be opened
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Panel Detachment:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door panel becomes loose and rattles
  • Solution: Reattach door panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1996 Ford Contour had a mix of minor and serious issues. The transmission issues could be costly to repair, while the other problems were relatively affordable to fix. Overall, the Contour was a decent vehicle but suffered from some reliability concerns, particularly in its transmission and engine.