1998 Ford Contour

Introduction:

The 1998 Ford Contour was a compact sedan produced by Ford Motor Company. It was available with three different engine options: a 2.0L Zetec 4-cylinder, a 2.5L Duratec V6, and a 3.0L Duratec V6. The transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Contour was praised for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and affordable price. However, some owners have reported various issues with the vehicle.

Engine:

2.0L Zetec 4-cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Duratec V6

• Timing chain tensioner failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: 07V436000
• Intake camshaft position sensor failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duratec V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission:

5-speed Manual

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

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power while driving, delayed gear engagement
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• No Issues Found

Suspension:

• Front strut mount failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace front strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Electrical short in engine harness:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical system malfunction, blown fuses
  • Solution: Repair or replace engine harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: 16V238000
• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate properly
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Exterior door handle failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
  • Solution: Replace exterior door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Loose or rattling interior trim:
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior panels rattle or make noise while driving
  • Solution: Tighten or replace interior trim clips
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1998 Ford Contour has a number of potential issues that can affect the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior. Some of these issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a low cost, while others can be more severe and expensive to repair. Overall, the Contour is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing one.