2000 Ford Contour

2000 Ford Contour

Overview

The 2000 Ford Contour, a compact sedan, offered a blend of European-inspired handling and American practicality. It was available with a choice of two distinct engines and two transmission types, catering to different driver preferences. While generally considered a competent vehicle for its era, like many cars, it had certain areas that experienced more frequent issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help owners anticipate and address them, ensuring a more reliable ownership experience.

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Engine

2.0L Zetec DOHC I4

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and potentially resurfacing of the cylinder head.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Intake Manifold Leaks

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light (P0171, P0174 codes).
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets or the manifold itself.
• Cost: $300 - $600

2.5L Duratec V6

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, no start, potential internal engine damage (bent valves).
• Solution: Replacement of the timing belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys. If damage occurred, engine repair or replacement is needed.
• Cost: $600 - $1200 (without damage), $2000+ (with damage)

Oil Leaks (Valve Covers/Oil Pan)

• Symptoms: Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (MTX-75)

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $600 - $1000

4-Speed Automatic (AX4S/AX4N)

Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, rough shifts, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild/replacement.
• Cost: $400 - $800 (fluid/filter/solenoid), $1800 - $3500 (rebuild/replacement)

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of front lower control arms or individual bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, window falling into the door.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Instrument Cluster Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Inaccurate gauge readings, dim or non-functional lights, intermittent power loss to cluster.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Cabin Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents or intermittent airflow, regardless of fan speed setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Door Lock Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Power door locks not working, manual locks difficult to operate.
• Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
• Cost: $150 - $300

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Summary Verdict

The 2000 Ford Contour presents a mixed reliability profile. The engines, particularly the 2.0L Zetec, are prone to head gasket issues and intake manifold leaks, while the 2.5L Duratec can suffer from timing belt failures if not maintained. Automatic transmissions may develop slipping or harsh shifting issues over time. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts are common wear items that can lead to noise and handling problems. Electrical gremlins, such as window regulators and instrument cluster faults, are also noted. While the exterior and interior are generally robust, specific components like the HVAC blower motor and door lock actuators can fail. Regular maintenance, especially for the timing belt on the V6, is crucial for mitigating some of these potential problems.