The 1995 Ford Contour, a compact executive car, debuted for the 1995 model year as a successor to the Ford Tempo. Available as a 4-door sedan and a 2-door coupe, it shared its platform with the European Ford Mondeo. Key trims included the base GL, the sportier SE, and the more upscale LX. Its European-derived chassis offered a more refined driving experience than many American counterparts of its era, aiming for a blend of sporty handling and everyday comfort. Pricing when new ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the trim and options.
The Good
The 1995 Ford Contour offered a compelling European-inspired driving dynamic, with responsive handling appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its comfortable ride and surprisingly spacious interior provided practicality for daily use, while its sleek, modern design offered emotional appeal at an accessible price point.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission. Electrical gremlins, such as faulty power windows and dashboard warning lights, can also arise. Engine cooling system issues and premature wear on suspension components are also frequent concerns.
1995 Ford Contour: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Zetec DOHC Inline-4
- 2.5L Duratec DOHC V6 (Standard on SE, optional on LX)
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Zetec: Approximately 125 hp
- 2.5L Duratec V6: Approximately 170 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 2.0L Inline-4 (Manual Transmission): Around 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
- 2.0L Inline-4 (Automatic Transmission): Around 21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
- 2.5L V6 (Manual Transmission): Around 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
- 2.5L V6 (Automatic Transmission): Around 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway
- Note: These are approximate figures and can vary based on driving conditions, maintenance, and specific transmission.
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- 2.0L Inline-4: Approximately 9-10 seconds
- 2.5L V6: Approximately 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
The Ford Contour was not designed or equipped for towing. Towing capacity is not applicable. - Trim-Level Features:
- GL: Base model typically included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and a basic AM/FM stereo.
- LX: Added features like cruise control, a cassette player, cloth upholstery, and often alloy wheels.
- SE: Featured sportier suspension tuning, upgraded interior trim, fog lights, a rear spoiler, and typically came standard with the 2.5L V6 engine and either a manual or automatic transmission.
- Transmission Options:
- 5-speed manual transmission
- 4-speed automatic transmission
1995 Ford Contour Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1995 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Contour |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | CUAUTITLAN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.8L V8 |
| Engine Size | 5.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1995 Ford Contour Have?
The 1995 Ford Contour, like many vehicles of its era, faced certain reliability challenges that impacted its long-term ownership experience. One of the most frequently reported issues revolves around the automatic transmission. Many owners have experienced premature failure or a propensity for rough shifting, especially as the vehicle ages. This can range from delayed engagement to complete transmission failure, often proving to be a costly repair.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Leaks from the radiator, hoses, and water pump are not uncommon. Overheating can lead to more significant engine damage, so regular checks and maintenance of the cooling system are crucial. Some models also experienced issues with the head gaskets, particularly with the V6 engines, though this was less prevalent in the earlier model years compared to later ones.
Electrical gremlins also plague the Contour. Power window motors frequently fail, leading to windows that refuse to go up or down. Dashboard warning lights, such as the check engine light, can illuminate erratically, sometimes without a clear underlying cause, leading to diagnostic headaches for owners. Issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensors and modules have also been reported.
Suspension components, including ball joints and tie rod ends, can wear out more quickly than on some competitors, leading to clunking noises and compromised handling. The interior, while generally well-appointed for its class, can suffer from worn upholstery and cracked dashboards due to sun exposure. While there were no major widespread recalls for the 1995 model that significantly altered its fundamental design, ongoing maintenance is key to mitigating these common issues. Long-term reliability is often dependent on how well the vehicle has been maintained and if these recurring problems were addressed promptly.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Leaks from the radiator, hoses, and water pump are not uncommon. Overheating can lead to more significant engine damage, so regular checks and maintenance of the cooling system are crucial. Some models also experienced issues with the head gaskets, particularly with the V6 engines, though this was less prevalent in the earlier model years compared to later ones.
Electrical gremlins also plague the Contour. Power window motors frequently fail, leading to windows that refuse to go up or down. Dashboard warning lights, such as the check engine light, can illuminate erratically, sometimes without a clear underlying cause, leading to diagnostic headaches for owners. Issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensors and modules have also been reported.
Suspension components, including ball joints and tie rod ends, can wear out more quickly than on some competitors, leading to clunking noises and compromised handling. The interior, while generally well-appointed for its class, can suffer from worn upholstery and cracked dashboards due to sun exposure. While there were no major widespread recalls for the 1995 model that significantly altered its fundamental design, ongoing maintenance is key to mitigating these common issues. Long-term reliability is often dependent on how well the vehicle has been maintained and if these recurring problems were addressed promptly.
How long will the 1995 Ford Contour last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance patterns, a well-maintained 1995 Ford Contour can reasonably be expected to reach between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, this heavily depends on consistent and proactive maintenance. The long-term durability is significantly challenged by known weaknesses, particularly the automatic transmission and cooling system. Cars that have had these components replaced or meticulously maintained have a better chance of longevity. Conversely, those that have neglected these issues are more likely to experience costly failures and have a shorter service life, often succumbing to major mechanical problems before reaching higher mileage.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1995 Ford Contour, as a vehicle from the mid-90s, offered a relatively modest suite of technology and safety features compared to modern standards, but it was competitive for its time. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades often included a CD player, which was a significant technological advancement for the era, and a premium sound system with more speakers for enhanced audio quality.
In terms of driver assistance, the Contour was quite basic. Features like cruise control were available, particularly on higher trim levels like the LX and SE, offering a degree of convenience on longer journeys. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important safety feature available on most trims, helping drivers maintain steering control during hard braking situations. Traction control was not widely available or standard on the 1995 model.
Safety was approached with the standards of the mid-90s. Dual front airbags were standard across all trims, providing essential protection for the driver and front passenger. Side-impact door beams were also incorporated to enhance structural integrity in the event of a side collision. Seatbelt pretensioners were also part of the safety package.
Regarding crash-test ratings, the Ford Contour generally performed adequately for its time, though specific ratings for the 1995 model year might vary. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) often gave the Contour good marks in frontal impacts. However, side-impact protection was an area where many cars of this era, including the Contour, often received lower ratings compared to today's vehicles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducted tests, with results generally reflecting its contemporary safety performance. It's important to note that these ratings are from an era with different testing methodologies and standards.
In terms of driver assistance, the Contour was quite basic. Features like cruise control were available, particularly on higher trim levels like the LX and SE, offering a degree of convenience on longer journeys. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important safety feature available on most trims, helping drivers maintain steering control during hard braking situations. Traction control was not widely available or standard on the 1995 model.
Safety was approached with the standards of the mid-90s. Dual front airbags were standard across all trims, providing essential protection for the driver and front passenger. Side-impact door beams were also incorporated to enhance structural integrity in the event of a side collision. Seatbelt pretensioners were also part of the safety package.
Regarding crash-test ratings, the Ford Contour generally performed adequately for its time, though specific ratings for the 1995 model year might vary. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) often gave the Contour good marks in frontal impacts. However, side-impact protection was an area where many cars of this era, including the Contour, often received lower ratings compared to today's vehicles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducted tests, with results generally reflecting its contemporary safety performance. It's important to note that these ratings are from an era with different testing methodologies and standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1995 Ford Contour Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1995 Ford Contour had an original Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from approximately $15,000 for a base GL model to around $20,000 for a well-equipped SE or LX with the V6 engine and options. Like most vehicles, the Contour experienced significant depreciation in its first few years. Today, its used market value is considerably lower, generally falling between $1,500 and $4,000, heavily dependent on condition, mileage, trim level, and maintenance history. Factors severely affecting resale value include the known reliability issues, especially with the transmission and engine. Cars with documented maintenance and in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition will command the higher end of this range, while those with issues will be significantly devalued.
1995 Ford Contour Cost of Ownership
The 1995 Ford Contour is generally economical to own, especially in terms of insurance premiums and fuel costs. Its smaller engine options offer decent MPG, and insurance rates are typically low due to its age and market segment. Maintenance costs can be moderate, with routine services being affordable. However, long-term ownership costs can become costly if the known reliability issues, particularly the automatic transmission and cooling system, arise. These major repairs can offset initial savings, making it crucial to factor in potential repair expenses when considering its overall ownership economy. It's more economical if bought with a proven maintenance record and no major looming issues.
1995 Ford Contour Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1995 Ford Contour Safety Rating
NHTSA
1995 Ford Contour Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date
1994-10-18
Recall no.
94v203000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Opening Reinforcement CAN Leak AT THE Weld.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage CAN Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect And, AS Appropriate, Replace THE Fuel Tanks.
Notes
System: Fuel; Fuel Tank Assembly; Pipe; Filler; Neck.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles.note: IF Your Vehicle IS Presented TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and THE Remedy IS NOT Provided Free OF Charge Within A Reasonable Time or THE Remedy Does NOT Correct THE Defect, Please Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also, Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date
1994-09-29
Recall no.
94v184000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
A Metal Shield ON THE Outside OF THE Plastic Fuel Filler Pipe CAN Develop A Static Electrical Charge During Refueling OF THE Vehicle.
Consequence
A Static Charge CAN Discharge and Serve AS AN Ignition Source FOR Fuel Vapors IN THE Area OF THE Filler Pipe, Resulting IN A Flash Vapor Ignition and A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Modify THE Vehicles BY Adding A Ground Strap Between THE Filler Pipe Shield and THE Body.
Notes
System: Fuel; Fuel Tank Assembly; Pipe; Filler; Neck.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles.note: IF THE Vehicle IS Presented TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and THE Remedy IS NOT Provided Free OF Charge Within A Reasonable Time or THE Remedy Does NOT Correct THE Defect or Noncompliance, Please Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also, Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
1995-02-24
Recall no.
95e006002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Passenger Side AIR BAG HAS AN Inflator Body That Cracked During Forming OF THE Curl That Retains THE Igniter Plug IN THE END OF THE Inflator. Also THE Igniter END CAP CAN Separate From THE Inflator.
Consequence
THE Passenger Side AIR BAG MAY NOT Inflate Properly Resulting IN Reduced Occupant Protection IN A Vehicle Accident. IF THE Igniter END CAP Separates IN A Frontal Collision, HOT Gases CAN BE Released and Ignite Flammable Material or Cause Burn Injuries.
Remedy
Dealers Will Remove and Replace THE Passenger Side AIR BAG Module.
Notes
System: Interior; Passive Restraints; AIR Bag; Passenger. Vehicle Description: Passenger Side AIR BAG IN Passenger Cars, Vans Andmulti-Purpose Vehicles. Note: IF Your Vehicle IS Presented TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and THE Remedy IS NOT Provided Free OF Charge Within A Reasonable Time, Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date
1995-12-05
Recall no.
95v232000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Opening Reinforcement, Constructed From Two Separately Molded Pieces, CAN Leak AT THE Weld.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage CAN Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank Assemblies With Units Containing One-Piece Molded Reinforcements.
Notes
System: Fuel; Fuel Tank Assembly; Pipe; Filler; Neck.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles.note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Visibility:windshield
Recall date
1995-01-24
Recall no.
95v009000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Glass Tempering Process ON THE Right Hand Rear Door Windows WAS NOT Correctly Performed. This Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 205, "glazing Materials."
Consequence
Consequence OF Non-Compliance: IF THE Window Breaks, THE Glass Fragments OF THE Rear Windows Exceed THE Size Specifications OF Fmvss NO. 205.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Right Rear Door Glass.
Notes
System: Visual Systems; Glass; Window; Door and Side.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Note: IF THE Vehicle IS Presented TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and THE Remedy IS NOT Provided Free OF Charge Within A Reasonable Time, Please Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
1995-12-04
Recall no.
95v228000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Cracks Have Been Found IN THE Front Safety Belt Outboard Anchor Tabs DUE TO A Combination OF Hydrogen Embrittlement OF THE TAB and Stress Introduced During Attachment OF THE Anchor TAB TO THE Seat Frame. This Does NOT Conform With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 210, "seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Consequence
Consequence OF Non-Compliance: A Fracture or Separation IN This Area Would Reduce THE Load That THE Anchor and THE Front Safety Belt Anchorages Could Sustain, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury IN A Vehicle Collisoin.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Install AN Anchor TAB Reinforcement or Replacement OF THE Complete Front Seat Belt Assembly IF AN Anchor TAB IS Found TO Have Fractured.
Notes
System: Interior; Restraint; Belt Anchor and Attachment; Fmvss NO. 210.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles.note: A Small Number OF Vehicles Built AT THE Cuautitlan, Mexico Assembly Plant From September 4 Through September 8, 1995, ARE Also Included.note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time, Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Recall date
1997-12-08
Recall no.
97v225000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With THE Traction Control Option. THE Throttle Cables Were Damaged During Vehicle Assembly Leading TO Fraying or Separation OF THE Throttle Cable.
Consequence
This Condition Could Prevent THE Engine From Returning TO Idle.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Throttle Cable With A Revised Design That IS Less Susceptible TO Bending or Kinking During Installation.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin January 13, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:floor Shift
Recall date
1998-09-18
Recall no.
98v233000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Floor Shift Automatic Transmission Control CAN BE Damaged IF Subjected TO Certain Interior Cleaning Products. THE Gear Position Indicator CAN Deteriorate and NOT Correctly Indicate THE Actual Gear Position.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Result IN Incorrect Gear Selection.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Automatic Transmission Floor Shift Control.
Notes
Owner Notification Began November 20, 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2000-11-06
Recall no.
00v367000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: 1995 Passenger Vehicles Equipped With THE 2.0l and 2.5l Engines, and 1996 Vehicles Equipped With 2.5l Engines. Tightening OF THE Engine Cooling FAN Motor Bearings, UP TO and Including Motor Stall, CAN Result IN Increased Motor Torque and Higher Than Normal Motor Current and Accompanying High Motor Temperatures.
Consequence
Overheating OF THE Cooling FAN Motor DUE TO Excessive Current CAN Result IN Smoke and Odors From Bearing Grease, Insulation and Other Internal Motor Components. IF Electrical Current Continues TO BE Applied TO THE Motor, Internal Motor Components Could Ignite Possibly Igniting Other Engine Compartment Components.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Positive Temperature Coefficient Device In-Line With Each FAN Motor. Ford Will Also Extend THE Warranty ON THE Engine Cooling FAN Assembly TO A Total OF 8 Years OF Service or 100,000 Miles From THE Warranty Start Date, Whichever Occurs First. IF THE Vehicle Already HAS More Than 100,000 Miles, This Coverage Will Last Until July 31, 2001.
Notes
Owner Notification Began February 5, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Visibility:defroster/Defogger/Hvac System:windshield:electrical Heating Element
Recall date
2001-07-09
Recall no.
01i009000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With THE Safety Act. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. Vehicle Description: 1995-1997 Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique Vehicles. THE Heater Blower Resistor Could Overheat Causing THE Attached Electrical Connector TO Melt.
Consequence
This Could Create THE Potential FOR A Fire.
Remedy
Ford Will Provide Additional Warranty Coverage FOR THE Heater Blower Switch FOR 10 Years From Original Date OF Sale OF THE Vehicle or 150,000 Miles, Whichever Comes First. Dealers Will Install A NEW Heater Blower Resistor and A NEW Wire Jumper Harness Free OF Charge.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct AN Extended Coverage Program TO Extend THE Warranty Coverage FOR Potential Heather Blower Resistor Problems. Owners CAN Contact Ford At1-866-436-7332, Concerning This Program.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e022000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Sold AS Replacement Brake Cylinders FOR Certain Ford, Daimlerchrysler, and Jeep Passenger Vehicles. These Brake Cylinders Were Sold Under THE Brand Names OF Napa, Raybestos, Aimco, AC Delco, Carquest, Bendix, and Wagner. Only Products That Were Manufactured From July 27, 2005 Through January 17, 2006 (Date Codes 0529 Through 0602) ARE Subject TO This Recall. When Subject TO Very Cold Temperatures, AN Internal Seal IN THE Master Cylinder Could Lose Flexibility and MAY Cause Brake Fluid TO Leak.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Lead TO A Decrease IN Brake Line Pressure and AN Increase IN Stopping Distance, Which CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Affinia (Brake Parts, Inc.) Will Replace THE Subject Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 20, 2006. Owners CAN Contact Affina Group Customer Service AT 1-800-323-0354.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Napa, Raybestos, AC Delco, Aimco, Carquest, and Bendix Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension
Recall date
2008-04-14
Recall no.
08e033000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Federal Mogul IS Recalling 6,903 Aftermarket Ball Joint Assemblies Shipped Between November 9, 2007 and March 26, 2008, Which MAY Have Been Packaged With Incorrect Nuts. THE Part Numbers Packaged With Incorrect Nuts Are: K7147, K7329, K8683, and 104353. These Parts Were Made FOR USE ON THE Various Vehicles Listed Above.
Consequence
THE Nuts Included IN THE Packaging FOR These Ball Joint Assemblies ARE Missing THE Intended Prevailing Torque (Self-Locking) Feature. IF THE Incorrect NUT WAS TO Become Loose, THE Joining Members MAY Loosen Leading TO A Separation OF THE Ball Joint. This MAY Result IN Loss OF Vehicle Control, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Federal Mogul Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Parts Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 22, 2008. Owners CAN Contact Federal Mogul AT 877-489-6659.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Ball Joint Assemblies and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
1995 Ford Contour Insurance
Insurance for a 1995 Ford Contour is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1995 Ford Contour Compare to Other Sedan?
In the mid-1990s, the 1995 Ford Contour competed in a crowded compact executive/family sedan segment against rivals like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Mazda Protégé. In terms of performance, the Contour, especially with the V6 engine, offered a more engaging and European-inspired driving experience with sharper handling than many of its Japanese competitors, which often prioritized comfort and reliability. The Accord and Camry were benchmarks for reliability and build quality, often surpassing the Contour in this regard. Features-wise, the Contour was generally competitive, offering amenities like power windows and locks, optional ABS, and decent audio systems, but it didn't always boast the cutting-edge tech of some rivals. The Contour's pricing was competitive, often slotting in favorably against similarly equipped Japanese models, offering a strong value proposition on paper.
However, the Contour's Achilles' heel was its reliability. While it looked and felt more upscale than some competitors, its higher incidence of mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission and cooling system, often led to it being outperformed by the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in long-term reliability surveys. The Nissan Altima offered a good balance of performance and practicality, and the Mazda Protégé was a more budget-friendly option with decent reliability.
Similar Alternatives:
While the 1995 Ford Contour offered a distinct European driving feel and attractive styling, its reliability concerns make it a less recommended choice compared to the class leaders like the Accord and Camry. If a similar driving dynamic is sought with potentially better long-term prospects, exploring later model years of the Contour or its European cousin, the Ford Mondeo, might be considered, though the issues persisted to some extent.
However, the Contour's Achilles' heel was its reliability. While it looked and felt more upscale than some competitors, its higher incidence of mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission and cooling system, often led to it being outperformed by the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in long-term reliability surveys. The Nissan Altima offered a good balance of performance and practicality, and the Mazda Protégé was a more budget-friendly option with decent reliability.
Similar Alternatives:
- Honda Accord: Generally superior in reliability and resale value. Offers a refined driving experience and a broad range of engines.
- Toyota Camry: Renowned for bulletproof reliability, comfortable ride, and excellent longevity. Performance is more comfort-oriented.
- Nissan Altima: A sportier alternative to the Accord and Camry, offering good performance and practicality.
While the 1995 Ford Contour offered a distinct European driving feel and attractive styling, its reliability concerns make it a less recommended choice compared to the class leaders like the Accord and Camry. If a similar driving dynamic is sought with potentially better long-term prospects, exploring later model years of the Contour or its European cousin, the Ford Mondeo, might be considered, though the issues persisted to some extent.
Final Verdict: Is the 1995 Ford Contour a Good Sedan?
The 1995 Ford Contour is best suited for an enthusiast or a budget-conscious buyer who appreciates its European-derived handling and styling, and is mechanically inclined or has access to affordable repairs. It's generally NOT worth buying as a primary daily driver for someone seeking long-term, worry-free reliability, especially given the known transmission and cooling system issues. If considering one, look for a well-maintained V6 SE trim with a documented service history, ideally with manual transmission to mitigate automatic transmission failures. Buying used is the only option, and its value lies in its initial low purchase price, but be prepared for potential repair costs. It's a car for those who can overlook potential headaches for its driving dynamics.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.