The timing belt failed at 73,500 miles.
The mass air flow sensor failed at 99,000 miles.
The engine seems to "starve" for gas when the gas gage reads 1/4 full -- like clockwork. Problem disappears when gas raises the level.
This auto was purchased through a dealer. It was a "Fleet" car with high mileage and it was purchased simply on low price.
She handles nicely, especially on corners and is really friendly to drive, however she seems underpowered (from the time I purchased her) and the transmission is exercised more than would seem normal to me. I have not taken her in for a tune-up yet since I get just under 30 mpg, but have changed fuel filter, plugs, air cleaner, oil filter etc.
The "check engine" light came on at 99,500 miles and was diagnosed as the mass air flow sensor ($120.00 plus $60.00 labor) -- Two weeks later the light came back on and I believe that the Ford dealer (different from the dealer where I purchased it) has mis-diagnosed it. The car runs fine, as it did on the initial failure) and I do not want to spend another $180.00 or more on a "trial and error" diagnosis.
The noise level is satisfactory, but I will probably install a hood pad in the hopes that some of the noise will be dampened.
I have not had a wheel alignment performed yet, but the tires are wearing evenly and I intend to simply rotate the tires in time.
She handles nicely in snow and the heater is awesome. I am quite happy overall and look forward to another 50,000 miles or so before I lose her.
Try adding Lucas Transmission Fix to the transmission. It costs little and it did smooth the shifting in our Contour SE to some extent.
The price for a noise pad under the hood is obscene. I bought a roll of insulation material and plastic fasteners, and affixed it to the underside of the hood. It was worth the $50 and the trouble. It reduced the noise dramatically.
If the check engine light refuses to go out after replacing all these little things, you may want to try a fuel injector cleaner and engine decarbonizer. Checking for vacuum leaks could also yield success.
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