1997 Ford Contour SE review from North America
"A high performance bargain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have had to replace the front, right wheel bearing.
The catalytic converter was replaced last year and seems to be out again.
The rack and pinion steering assembly has been replaced.
Several recalls have been done on the car.
I replaced the water pump.
The engine light used to come on a lot, but hasn't in a long time.
The engine temperature seems to rise a bit when I'm in heavy stop and go traffic or idling.
The interior plastic pieces are fragile.
The rear doors constantly need oiling or they make a horrendous screeching sound.
All other issues I would consider normal maintenance.
General comments?
I am still pleased with the car after 5 years of ownership.
The front seats are very comfortable.
I enjoy the power moon roof.
The 5-speed manual is excellent and makes the car fun to drive.
The car looks great in Toreador red.
It rides smooth on most surfaces.
The sport suspension makes the car handle very well.
I love the thick, leather wrapped steering wheel.
A pleasure to drive on the highway. It easily cruises at speeds of 75 MPH and up.
Gas mileage could be better.
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| 1996 - Contour GL Sport Zetec 2.0L DOHC 16v I-4 Extremely fine driving POS |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 44000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 108000 miles |
| Previous car | Lincoln Continental |
| Date of Entry | 13th April, 2004 |