1997 Ford Contour GL review from North America
"I think I have a lemon"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Bought the car just under a month ago, since then it has been back to the shop 3 times (under the 30 day guarantee) once for a sudden loud banging noise when turning right, twice for the check engine light, and it`s just come on again, 1 day after coming out of the shop.
Today the brakes have started shuddering when braking and a clunking noise from the back end whilst driving.
General comments?
I think this is diabolical, also noticed creaking noises when moving slowly, removing the wheel trims cured this, but caused a headache.
Check engine light is again illuminated.
Performance wise it does well, tonight the O/D off light started flashing whilst driving home.
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![]() ![]() | Garbage - Major $$$ for repairs |
![]() ![]() | 1996 - Contour GL Sport Zetec 2.0L DOHC 16v I-4 Extremely fine driving POS |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 74000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 75000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 31st October, 2002 |

