The 1998 Ford Contour was a compact executive car produced from 1994 to 2000. Available as a four-door sedan, it aimed to offer European driving dynamics. Key trims included the base, SE, and the sportier GL/Sport models. New pricing ranged from approximately $17,000 to $22,000. It stood out for its agile handling and European-inspired design, appealing to those seeking a more engaging driving experience in its class.
The Good
The 1998 Ford Contour offered responsive handling and a refined ride, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its European-inspired styling provided a sophisticated aesthetic. For practical buyers, it presented a decent value proposition with acceptable fuel economy and a comfortable interior for its class.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 1998 Ford Contour should be aware of potential issues with the automatic transmission, particularly concerning premature failure. Engine coolant leaks and electrical gremlins, such as power window malfunctions, are also commonly reported concerns that require attention.
1998 Ford Contour: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Zetec I4
- 2.5L Duratec V6
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Zetec I4: Approximately 125 hp
- 2.5L Duratec V6: Approximately 170 hp (standard on SE, GL/Sport)
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates, Varies by transmission and engine):
- 2.0L I4 (Manual): ~21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
- 2.0L I4 (Automatic): ~20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- 2.5L V6 (Manual): ~19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- 2.5L V6 (Automatic): ~18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (Approximate, Varies by engine and transmission):
- 2.0L I4: ~9.5 - 10.5 seconds
- 2.5L V6: ~8.0 - 8.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable or recommended for this vehicle class.
- Trim-Level Features (General):
- Base: Standard features usually included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo.
- SE: Added features often included alloy wheels, upgraded interior upholstery, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and sometimes a power driver's seat.
- GL/Sport: Typically featured the V6 engine as standard, sport-tuned suspension, fog lights, unique exterior trim, and often more premium interior appointments like leather seating options.
1998 Ford Contour Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Contour |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | OAKVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5L V6 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Ford Contour Have?
The 1998 Ford Contour, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of frequently reported problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most consistently cited issues is with the automatic transmission, particularly the 4-speed AX4N transmission. Reports indicate a tendency for premature failure, often manifesting as slipping gears, harsh shifting, or complete loss of drive. This is a significant concern and can lead to expensive repairs.
Another common area of concern is the engine coolant system. Leaks from the radiator, hoses, and the intake manifold gasket are not uncommon. Overheating can result from these leaks, leading to more severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. The 2.5L V6 engine, while offering good power, can be susceptible to intake manifold gasket failures, which can be costly to repair due to the labor involved.
Electrical gremlins also plague the Contour. Power window regulators are known to fail, leading to windows that won't go up or down. Issues with the instrument cluster, such as non-functioning gauges or warning lights, have also been reported. Some owners have experienced problems with the fuel pump, leading to starting issues or stalling.
While there haven't been widespread, catastrophic recalls specifically for the 1998 model year that stand out as major design flaws, it's always advisable to check for any outstanding recalls with Ford. Long-term reliability is often hampered by the transmission issues and the potential for ongoing minor electrical and cooling system repairs. Maintenance is key; regular fluid changes for the transmission and cooling system can help mitigate some of these problems, but owners should be prepared for potential repairs, especially as the vehicle ages.
Another common area of concern is the engine coolant system. Leaks from the radiator, hoses, and the intake manifold gasket are not uncommon. Overheating can result from these leaks, leading to more severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. The 2.5L V6 engine, while offering good power, can be susceptible to intake manifold gasket failures, which can be costly to repair due to the labor involved.
Electrical gremlins also plague the Contour. Power window regulators are known to fail, leading to windows that won't go up or down. Issues with the instrument cluster, such as non-functioning gauges or warning lights, have also been reported. Some owners have experienced problems with the fuel pump, leading to starting issues or stalling.
While there haven't been widespread, catastrophic recalls specifically for the 1998 model year that stand out as major design flaws, it's always advisable to check for any outstanding recalls with Ford. Long-term reliability is often hampered by the transmission issues and the potential for ongoing minor electrical and cooling system repairs. Maintenance is key; regular fluid changes for the transmission and cooling system can help mitigate some of these problems, but owners should be prepared for potential repairs, especially as the vehicle ages.
How long will the 1998 Ford Contour last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a well-maintained 1998 Ford Contour can realistically achieve an average mileage of 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, achieving this range often requires diligent upkeep, particularly concerning the known weaknesses. Regular transmission fluid changes, coolant system flushes, and prompt attention to any fluid leaks are crucial. The long-term durability is significantly influenced by the owner's willingness to address potential transmission issues proactively. Without such care, the lifespan can be considerably shorter, often cut short by expensive transmission repairs. The chassis and body generally hold up reasonably well to rust if kept in a dry climate, but electrical components and cooling systems remain persistent areas of concern over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Ford Contour offered a modest suite of technology and safety features for its time, focusing on practicality rather than cutting-edge innovation.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades could include a CD player, providing a more modern listening experience for the late 90s. Sound systems were generally basic, with a few speakers strategically placed in the doors and dashboard.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were quite limited in 1998. The Contour generally offered standard power steering, a tilt steering wheel for driver comfort, and cruise control was often available, especially on higher trims like the SE and GL/Sport. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were typically standard or an option on most trims, enhancing braking control. Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) might have been available as an option on some models to further optimize braking performance.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Seatbelt pre-tensioners were also standard to help secure occupants during a collision. Side-impact airbags were not widely available or standard on the 1998 Contour, being more of a premium option if offered at all. The body structure was designed with crumple zones to absorb impact energy.
Crash-Test Ratings: The Ford Contour generally performed averagely in government crash tests for its era. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Contour with four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger protection. Side-impact protection ratings varied but were generally considered adequate for the time. However, compared to modern vehicles, its safety systems and structural integrity are significantly less advanced. Optional features were relatively limited, with the main additions being things like alloy wheels, upgraded sound systems, and sometimes a power driver's seat.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades could include a CD player, providing a more modern listening experience for the late 90s. Sound systems were generally basic, with a few speakers strategically placed in the doors and dashboard.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were quite limited in 1998. The Contour generally offered standard power steering, a tilt steering wheel for driver comfort, and cruise control was often available, especially on higher trims like the SE and GL/Sport. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were typically standard or an option on most trims, enhancing braking control. Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) might have been available as an option on some models to further optimize braking performance.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Seatbelt pre-tensioners were also standard to help secure occupants during a collision. Side-impact airbags were not widely available or standard on the 1998 Contour, being more of a premium option if offered at all. The body structure was designed with crumple zones to absorb impact energy.
Crash-Test Ratings: The Ford Contour generally performed averagely in government crash tests for its era. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Contour with four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger protection. Side-impact protection ratings varied but were generally considered adequate for the time. However, compared to modern vehicles, its safety systems and structural integrity are significantly less advanced. Optional features were relatively limited, with the main additions being things like alloy wheels, upgraded sound systems, and sometimes a power driver's seat.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Ford Contour Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Ford Contour had a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that generally ranged from around $17,000 for the base model to approximately $22,000 for the higher-trim V6 models. As with most vehicles, the Contour experienced significant depreciation in its early years.
Currently, on the used market, 1998 Ford Contours can be found for prices typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and trim level. Vehicles with lower mileage and in excellent condition, particularly V6 models with manual transmissions, can fetch slightly higher prices. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the known transmission issues, overall mechanical condition, interior and exterior wear and tear, and maintenance history. A well-documented service history can positively impact its value, while evidence of neglect, especially concerning transmission or coolant system problems, will drastically reduce it.
Currently, on the used market, 1998 Ford Contours can be found for prices typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and trim level. Vehicles with lower mileage and in excellent condition, particularly V6 models with manual transmissions, can fetch slightly higher prices. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the known transmission issues, overall mechanical condition, interior and exterior wear and tear, and maintenance history. A well-documented service history can positively impact its value, while evidence of neglect, especially concerning transmission or coolant system problems, will drastically reduce it.
1998 Ford Contour Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Ford Contour is generally considered economical to own, especially when purchased on the used market. Insurance costs are typically moderate, falling within the average range for a compact car of its age. Fuel costs are reasonable, with the 2.0L engine offering better MPG, while the V6 is thirstier but still manageable. Maintenance costs can be relatively low for routine items, but repairs, particularly for the known automatic transmission issues and potential coolant leaks, can be significant and increase overall ownership expenses. If major repairs are avoided, it remains an economical choice; however, unexpected major component failures can make it costly to own long-term.
1998 Ford Contour Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1998 Ford Contour Safety Rating
NHTSA
1998 Ford Contour Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
1998-02-10
Recall no.
98v028000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Text And/Or Graphics FOR THE Vehicle Headlamp Aiming Instructions Provided IN THE Owner Guides ARE NOT Sufficiently Clear. This Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
IF THE Headlamp Assemblies ARE Replaced, Customers MAY BE Confused BY THE Aiming Instructions Provided IN THE Owner Guides Causing THE Headlamps TO BE Improperly Aimed.
Remedy
Owner Guides Containing Revised Aiming Instructions Will BE Mailed TO Owners OF These Vehicles.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin March 23, 1998. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Owner Guide 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).
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).
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
Recall date
1999-05-05
Recall no.
99v103000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Terminals AT THE Headlight Switch and Wiring Harness Connector CAN Experience Heat Damage AS A Result OF Overheating.
Consequence
THE Damage Could Result IN Distortion OF THE Terminal Causing AN Open Circuit IN THE Instrument Panel Illumination, Parking Lamp, and Tail Lamp Circuits.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Headlamp Switch Wiring Connector Containing Bronze Terminals and AN Inspection, and Replacement IF Necessary, OF THE Headlamp Switch.
Notes
Owner Notification Began July 16, 1999. 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).
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
1999-09-08
Recall no.
99v243000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE AIR BAG Sensor Wiring Pigtail Insulation CAN Become Brittle and Crack Over Time DUE TO Accumulation OF Water IN THE Pigtail Protective Convolute IN Combination With High Underhood Temperatures Related TO THE Routing OF THE Wiring Pigtail Near THE Radiator. This CAN Result IN Environmental Stress Cracking OF THE Insulation.
Consequence
IN Some Cases, THE AIR BAG Warning Light CAN Illuminate and THE AIR BAG Supplemental Restraint System Disabled.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install AIR BAG Sensors With Revised Wiring Insulation. IN Addition, Vehicles Which Have THE AIR BAG Warning Light Illuminated Will Have A NEW AIR BAG Diagnostic Monitor Installed.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 99s23. Owner Notification Began September 27, 1999.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).
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date
1999-07-20
Recall no.
99v194000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Accelerator Cable MAY Have Been Manufactured With A Burr ON or Near THE END OF THE Cable Sleeve Interior. This Burr Could Fray THE Core Wire Resulting IN THE Accelerator NOT Returning TO Idle When THE Accelerator IS Released.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Result IN THE Throttle Sticking, Binding, or Causing High Engine Rpm.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Revised Accelerator Cable That HAS A Flared Conduit Sleeve END and Molded ON END Fitting.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 17, 1999.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).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components
Recall date
2000-03-09
Recall no.
00v075000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles NOT Equipped With THE Anti-Lock Braking System (Abs). A Pressure Conscious Reducing Valve (Pcrv) IN THE Rear Brakes MAY BE Subject TO Corrosion and Result IN Malfunction, When Operated IN Areas That USE Salt Compounds ON THE Roadway FOR De-Icing or Dust Control.
Consequence
IF Both Pcrv's Malfunction, Vehicle Handling Could BE Adversely Affected During Braking AS A Result OF THE Rear Wheels Locking, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install Improved Pcrv's IN THE Rear Brake System. This Recall WAS Expanded IN September 2000 TO Include 1999 and 2000 Ford Contour, Mercury Mystique and Cougar Vehicles.
Notes
Owner Notification Began April 3, 2000 FOR THE 1996-1998 Model Vehicles and ON October 11, 2000, FOR THE 1999-2000 Model Vehicles.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).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date
2000-10-30
Recall no.
00v350000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Bi-Fuel Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY Have A Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Grommet That Could Have Been Damaged During THE Installation OF THE Bi-Fuel System. IF THE Grommet IS Damaged, Fuel Could Leak. Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Could Result IN A Fire. Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Grommet.
Consequence
IF THE Grommet IS Damaged, Fuel Could Leak. Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank Filler Pipe Grommet.
Notes
Owner Notification Began November 30, 2000.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).
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
Recall date
2001-08-08
Recall no.
01v255000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Built AT THE Kansas City Assembly Plant and Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. THE Front Coil Springs MAY Fracture AS A Result OF Corrosion IN High Corrosion Environments. Depending ON THE Location OF THE Fracture, A Broken Spring Could Move Past THE Spring Seat and Contact A Front Tire.
Consequence
Some Tires Have Deflated DUE TO Contact With A Broken Spring.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install Spring Catcher Brackets. Owner Notification Began October 23, 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 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System
Recall date
2001-07-09
Recall no.
01v230000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain MY 1996-1998 Passenger Vehicles Built AT THE Kansas City, Cuautitlan Assembly Plants or ON MY 1999 Passenger Vehcles Built AT THE Automotive Alliance International Assembly Plants, THE Rough Surface OF THE Heater Blower Resistor's Stainless Steel Blades CAN Damage THE Copper Surface OF THE Wiring Harness Connector. THE Damage Could, Over Time, Cause Increased Resistance IN THE Connector And, DUE TO Subsequent Terminal Relaxation, Result IN AN Open Circuit Condition.
Consequence
THE Open Circuit Could Lead TO Electrical Arcing That Could Melt THE Connector Housing Material Creasing THE Potential FOR A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A NEW Heater Blower Resistor and A NEW Wire Jumper Harness. Owner Notification Began August 29, 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.
Notes
Ford Recall No.01s22.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
Recall date
2001-08-08
Recall no.
01i013000
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: 1998 Ford Contour/Mercury Mystique Passenger Vehicles Built AT THE Kansas City Assembly Plant. THE Front Coil Springs Could Potentially Fracture DUE TO Corrosion.
Consequence
Some Tires Have Deflated DUE TO Contact With A Broken Spring.
Remedy
Ford IS Extending THE Warranty FOR Front Coil Spring Replacement FOR THE Front Coil Springs FOR 10 Years From Original Date OF Sale OF A Vehicle or 150,000 Miles, Whichever Comes First.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct A Service Campaign TO Extend THE Warranty Coverage FOR THE Front Coil Springs. 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.
1998 Ford Contour Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 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 1998 Ford Contour Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1998 Ford Contour competed in a crowded compact executive segment against rivals like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Chevrolet Malibu.
Performance: The Contour, particularly with the V6 engine and manual transmission, offered a more engaging and sporty driving experience than many of its peers, often praised for its European-inspired handling and chassis dynamics. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were known for their smooth and refined rides, but often less so for outright sportiness.
Features: Features on the Contour were competitive for its time, offering standard power amenities and optional upgrades like CD players and upgraded upholstery. However, rivals like the Honda Accord often boasted slightly more advanced available technology and creature comforts across their lineups. The Camry was known for its comfortable and well-appointed interior.
Reliability: This is where the Contour often fell short compared to its Japanese competitors. While the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry built legendary reputations for bulletproof reliability and longevity, the Contour was plagued by known issues, most notably with its automatic transmissions. This made it a less dependable choice for long-term ownership compared to its rivals.
Price: The Contour was generally priced competitively, often slotting between the more affordable domestic options and the slightly pricier Japanese offerings.
Recommendations:
For buyers prioritizing absolute reliability and a comfortable, predictable ownership experience, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry would be superior alternatives. They offer similar practicality and often better fuel economy with significantly fewer recurring mechanical headaches.
If a more engaging driving experience is a priority but reliability is still a concern, the Mazda Millennia (though a bit more upscale) could be considered, or potentially a sportier trim of the Accord.
Similar alternatives that offered decent handling without the same widespread transmission concerns might include certain trims of the Nissan Altima, though its interior refinement wasn't always as strong as the Contour's. The Chevrolet Malibu offered a more American-centric approach but often lacked the refined handling of the Contour.
Performance: The Contour, particularly with the V6 engine and manual transmission, offered a more engaging and sporty driving experience than many of its peers, often praised for its European-inspired handling and chassis dynamics. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were known for their smooth and refined rides, but often less so for outright sportiness.
Features: Features on the Contour were competitive for its time, offering standard power amenities and optional upgrades like CD players and upgraded upholstery. However, rivals like the Honda Accord often boasted slightly more advanced available technology and creature comforts across their lineups. The Camry was known for its comfortable and well-appointed interior.
Reliability: This is where the Contour often fell short compared to its Japanese competitors. While the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry built legendary reputations for bulletproof reliability and longevity, the Contour was plagued by known issues, most notably with its automatic transmissions. This made it a less dependable choice for long-term ownership compared to its rivals.
Price: The Contour was generally priced competitively, often slotting between the more affordable domestic options and the slightly pricier Japanese offerings.
Recommendations:
For buyers prioritizing absolute reliability and a comfortable, predictable ownership experience, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry would be superior alternatives. They offer similar practicality and often better fuel economy with significantly fewer recurring mechanical headaches.
If a more engaging driving experience is a priority but reliability is still a concern, the Mazda Millennia (though a bit more upscale) could be considered, or potentially a sportier trim of the Accord.
Similar alternatives that offered decent handling without the same widespread transmission concerns might include certain trims of the Nissan Altima, though its interior refinement wasn't always as strong as the Contour's. The Chevrolet Malibu offered a more American-centric approach but often lacked the refined handling of the Contour.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Ford Contour a Good Sedan?
The 1998 Ford Contour is best suited for a budget-conscious buyer who prioritizes engaging driving dynamics and European styling over absolute long-term reliability. It's an ideal choice for someone who enjoys spirited driving and is mechanically inclined or has a trusted mechanic willing to tackle potential transmission and cooling system issues.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle. A carefully inspected example, preferably with a V6 engine and a manual transmission (which tended to be more reliable than the automatics), and with a documented maintenance history showing proactive care, could be a good value. Buying used is the only practical option, with prices reflecting its age and known weaknesses. It is not recommended for those seeking a set-it-and-forget-it daily driver. Thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle. A carefully inspected example, preferably with a V6 engine and a manual transmission (which tended to be more reliable than the automatics), and with a documented maintenance history showing proactive care, could be a good value. Buying used is the only practical option, with prices reflecting its age and known weaknesses. It is not recommended for those seeking a set-it-and-forget-it daily driver. Thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.