1995-2000 Ford Contour: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Ford Contour includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Contour .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may go into limp-in mode due to a faulty manual lever position sensor. (1995)
Brakes:
Ice in the parking brake cables will not allow the parking brake to release or release fully. (1995-97)
Dashboard lights:
A slipping drive belt causes a lack of power steering and the charge warning light to glow. A new belt, idler pulley, and a splash kit are needed. (1995-97)
Engine misfire:
Lack of acceleration in below 32 degrees Fahrenheit on the 2.5-liter engine is often due to ice on the throttle plate. A revised engine computer prevents the problem. (1995)
Engine temperature:
Engine overheating on 2.5-liter engines may be due to broken plastic water pump impeller blades. (1995-2000)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1995-2000)
Steering problems:
If the steering wheel vibrates while idling with the transmission engaged and the A/C running, the steering mass damper, airbag module, and radiator mounts must be replaced. (1995-97)
Transmission leak:
Transmission fluid may leak from the vent hole of automatic transmission. A revised vent tube is available. (1995-96)
Transmission noise:
Gear clash going into third on the manual transmission can be remedied by a rebuilt input gear shaft and a new shift fork. (1995-97)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $360 |
| Alternator | $455 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $800 |
| Brakes | $290 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $750 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $465 |
| Radiator | $345 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $700 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $345 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $175 |
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