Transmission went out around 80000 miles.
The high fan speed does not work.
OD went out.
Fuel door won't shut.
I love my Contour. It has a great ride and has a lot of acceleration for a four cylinder. Most of the cars problems have to do with the my family. The rear bumper has a huge dent in it from me backing it into my brothers car. On the other side of the rear bumper is were my Dad hit it with his Cadillac. Finally, the front right fender is caved in from my Mom pulling it into the garage and hitting our toolbox. (Just happened yesterday) The car still overall looks good. Despite the cars haggard apperance, I still love it. It's my first car and I hope it never dies. (Or with the way my family is, wrecked)
The 1996 ford contour had a recall for a switch on the fan. Mine failed (locked in one position) and they repaired it at no charge due to recall notice. You failed switch may be covered under the same recall.