Ford Contour reliability: common problems by model year

Across 2 model years, the Ford Contour has 1,099 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 16 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and engine and engine cooling. 1996 drew the most complaints (640), 1999 the fewest (459).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Ford Contour vehicles (US, public record).

Which Contour years have the most problems?

Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.

Highest: 1996 (640 complaints). Lowest: 1999 (459).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model and powertrain. The standard models, particularly those with automatic transmissions, are associated with recurrent reliability issues including transmission failures, electrical problems, and chec

• Automatic transmission failures: very frequent in standard models, cited as a primary reason for negative sentiment.
• Electrical problems / Check Engine Lights: recurrent issues causing various malfunctions.
• Third gear synchro wear/grinding (manual transmissions): recurrent issue, especially in SVT models, indicating aggressive driving or poor shifting technique.
• Oil starvation during high-G right turns: isolated but noted concern for SVT models during aggressive or track driving, potentially leading to spun bearings.
• Timing chain and water pump: the water pump impeller is noted as a plastic component that can fail; recommended to replace with a metal unit during service.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Contour. Individual model years are broken down above.