1995 Ford Contour GL review from North America

Only half of the dash board lights work.

The car died on me at 20 below weather because anti-freeze leaked into the cylinders of the engine and consequently, the engine needed to be rebuilt (over $1000).

The rear cylinder brakes blew out - literally blew - while driving 55mph. All I hear was a loud noise, no light came on to warn me. I learned it was the brakes when I tried to slow down - very scary!!!

Then the timing belt broke. When it was taken apart, the whole area surrounding it was destroyed and there were no ball bearings. (over $700).

Now the transmission shifts hard and into other gears while driving at a steady speed. It goes into Neutral and down shifts.

It idles really low. We got it "fixed" numerous times, but it still feels like it's going to die while sitting at an intersection.

The engine knocks really loudly, but never leaked oil.

This car is a piece of junk, as I feel about the whole Ford brand. It's been one problem after the other and the mechanics are stumped as to what's wrong with the transmission.

I figure that I'll try to sell it for scraps or something, as the body is in good condition.

There are obviously a lot of problems with this model (perhaps because it was the first year that Ford made them - 1995).

Never ever buy one of these!!! I totally regret it. I'm afraid to drive it because I don't want to be left stranded somewhere!