1999 Ford Contour SVT review from North America

Fuel Pump- since the car is a 1999 and newer model, it is a returnless fuel system- In other words, have fun dropping the gas tank to get at the pump.

Brakes- Good for 20k of spirited driving, but again have fun finding the right replacement parts- I had luck through Ford of Europe.

DPFE sensor and EGR valve- replacement at 50k should be mandatory- parts for that are cheap at Autozone:)

Don't forget the "moose"- air intake noise that is attributable to the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve. Contour. org has a great list of fix-it's available.

I've owned a number of Muscle cars, and sports cars, and this is by far, the most comfortable one and easiest to work on (once you track down the parts) of the bunch. It isn't a "rocket sled" by any means, but, it holds it's own merging into traffic from a dead stop. Especially with an aftermarket intake system, and a stainless mandrel bent custom exhaust system (best modification for the money). The interior was designed by a hyperactive five year old, however, there is a persistent squeak from the trunk and the dashboard that I can't find, and when it's below freezing, the squeaking can get pretty bad until the interior warms up. The tires are pricey, and, for some reason 215 50-16's are almost impossible to find for under 180$...I used 215 55-16's and it does make the car handle differently (marginally)