What are the most common Ford Contour problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 370+ owner reports, the 1995-2000 Ford Contour has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak, CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure, IMRC Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Contour reliable?
The 1995-2000 Ford Contour has 5 known issues documented across 370+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak and CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Contour problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Contour issues range from $80 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak, typically costs $150-$500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Ford Contour is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Ford Contour. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1995-2000 Ford Contour with 5 documented issues documented across 370+ owner reports.
What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak?
The plastic coolant elbows and crossover tube at the rear of the 2.5L V6 crack and leak coolant. These are difficult to see and reach, often leading to unnoticed coolant loss and overheating. Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure?
The CD4E automatic transmission used in the Contour is one of the most failure-prone transmissions Ford has produced. The forward clutch pack, servo bore, and torque converter clutch are common failure points. Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1998-2000 Ford Contour IMRC Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure?
The 2.5L Duratec V6 in the Contour SVT and some base models uses intake manifold runner control (IMRC) butterflies that seize or break due to carbon buildup. This causes a noticeable loss of mid-range power and a check engine light. Repairs typically run $100-$400. Severity: medium.
What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Alternator Premature Failure?
The alternator on both 2.0L and 2.5L V6 engines fails prematurely, often before 80,000 miles. The voltage regulator or diode pack burns out, causing battery drain and electrical issues. The 2.5L V6 alternator is particularly difficult to access. Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Power Window Regulator Gear Stripping?
The Contour's power window regulators use plastic gears that strip over time, causing the window to drop into the door or become inoperable. The driver's side fails most frequently. Cold weather accelerates the plastic gear failure. Repairs typically run $80-$250. Severity: low.
