1996 FORD Contour

Pure [non-permissible content removed] but surprisingly reliable

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car in July 2013 from a friend, I'd say less than 24 hours of ownership it overheated, hose blew and split a hose and blew water pump gasket, oil pan leaks now fixed antifreeze leaks with k-seal(does wonders) rear struts are junk, pulls hard right ,poor gas mileage, erratic idle, can't loosen tensioner pulley to replace serpentine belt, THE slowest and least powerful car I've ever set foot in, my old Buick would blow the doors off this. The only positive thing is it's never broke down, only not started once from maf sensor wet, other than that I think about running it into a tree to put this useless excuse of a car out of its misery, also all windows have wiring issues

pretty car but drives bad in first.

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

Like look and feel of contour,but the car drives bad in first gear,scary in traffic.Want to get rid of it A.S.A.P.

Nice looking hunk o' junk

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

Well, I started off the first year with really no issues except the air conditioning compressor blew. Well, the past 4 months have been HECK! The tranny has started to knock, the windows get stuck down, the alternator and/or starter is going, the abs light flashes, the o2 sensor blew, the hood release snapped from the cable, drive side headrest broke, and the engine stalls at stop lights. It's been a good first car,up until now, I just can't wait to upgrade!

Don't buy this junk.

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

This car has been a nothing but trouble. Every problem requires a trip to the mechanic because the car is designed so you can't fix anything without special tools and disassembly of the entire engine. The water pump is a constant problem having to be replaced twice as well as the timing belt. Engine is continually running hot because of poorly designed coolant system. Doors creak terribly when opened. The car has terrible fuel mileage compared to its small engine and pathetic amount of power. The only plus to this car is the availability of used parts. You can find several of these cars at almost any junk yard. That is where mine is headed shortly.

Satisfied longtime owner

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

If you're reading this, you're probably wondering about a '96 Contour as a used car prospect. There were some early recalls and warranty problems, but I've done decent maintenance and ended up with a reliable, fun-to-drive, economical car. The timing belt broke at 90K (no harm done; I should have replaced it sooner), but routine maintenance has been fine, brakes long-lasting, transmission no trouble. I'll be selling it reluctantly, 'cause I think it has many more miles on it!

Worthless

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Garbage. Car shakes all the time, speakers are broken, all the windows don't roll up or down Oil pan leaks, shocks and struts are shot, and overheated all the time. Put $2000 in to it for tune up, transmission, and water pump and timing belt. Never buy this car whatever you do.

Worst car Ever Bought

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought A 96 Ford Contour with less than 100000 miles on it. Drove it one day transmission went out. Had it replaced and then less than 6 months later same thing. I had to replace the water pump, timing belt, serpintine belt, battery, and battery wire on this in 6 months and not to mention after replacing the cable. The car caught fire! Never buy anything stamped found on road dead again!

Had this one a while

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought this Contour in late 1997 with 18,000 miles, and had it ever since-2L four and 5 speed manual makes it a fun- to-drive econo car. Replaced battery and alternator at 43000 m and valve cover gasket and spark plugs at 85000 m. Mine gets great mileage and never has left me stranded. These cars might fall apart if they are flogged hard, with light construction and 2750 lb curb weight. But mine is still fun to drive and has cost me next to nothing to own.

1996 Ford Contour 4 dr SE

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I've had this car for almost 10 years now and I really love how it drives. Great styling, power and pretty good mpg. But the build quality and reliability are no so good. I've replace the catalytic converter, rear strut, brakes 3 times (not too bad), 3 tune ups, radiator, water pump, and now the brakes are going again, clutch is going and there is a small oil leak. The car is worth less than a 1000 bucks so I'm sending it to it's grave. 145,000 it's bad for a Ford but there are a lot of fixes

Shane's Nightmare

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

When this car was purchased, I had just gotten rid of an 1990 Ford Taurus (never had a problem, just died). Since I've bought this car I've suffered through a blown head gasket, 2 alternators, a water pump, wheel bearings, tie rod ends, alignments, tires, brakes, rotors, battery, gas cap opening problems, check engine light that won't go out, brake fluid & oil that leaks from nowhere (mechanics can't find the source of leak), headlights, lights burning out inside vehicle, along with various electrical problems. Yesterday the speedometer finally went for the long goodbye. I've never spent so much money for car repairs & maintenance in my years of driving. This car completely stinks!

You may not believe this one!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

First I will list the problems I have had with this vehicle, which I'm sure is no suprise to you the readers. Engine stalls cold. Battery discharges after a couple of days. Window fell of track (drivers side). Engine Idle RPM varies while stopped in traffic. Overheating came because Ford had used a plastic not metal impeller for the water pump. The whole engine wiring had to be replaced because it was falling apart (the plastic insulation). Fan not working light comes on despite you actually seeing the fans working. Now brake pedal is intermittently hard to push during stop. Happens without warning. Now for the interesting part..This vehicle of my original ownership only has 17780. Presently

piece 'o junk

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

No wonder Ford is on the verge of bankruptcy. I have never owned a car so unreliable as this in my life. My daughter got rid of it for a Corolla as she was always having it repaired. Wheel bearings every 50k miles? I only bought it as the body had no rust and have regrets. Transmission torque converter, rear struts, a/c compressor, yellowed headlight lenses, wheel bearings, etc. Back to Honda / Toyota for me.

Gets Better with Age

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My Contour hit 200,000 miles last night! I've got the V6 5-speed. Though I had problems with it early on--water pumps, numerous recalls and that darn engine light that won't go off--it's been great for the last 120,000 miles. I love the way it handles and it still has plenty of power. I'm curious to see how long it will last!

Good first car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall, the car drives well. It has the right amount of zip when you need it, and I found it to be pretty reliable. I owned the car for almost six years, and up until a couple months ago, I only had relatively minor problems with it. (i.e. brake rotors, 1 alternator, 1 battery, and a window motor) I put about 90,000 miles on it while I owned it, I drove it all around the country, and it got me everywhere I needed to be. At about 160,000 miles, the car sort of began to fall apart, but I guess that what happens when you drive a Ford. I still feel I got my money's worth.

Eleven Year Ownership.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has been one of the most reliable and economical I have owned, especially after 11 years of mostly city driving in San Antonio,Texas.

Don't Buy This Car!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I'm at 128,000k and it's sitting at a repair shop right now waiting for the auto salvage guys to pick it up...tranny finally blew and I'm done dealing with this hunk of junk, multiple and frequent problems beginning 3 months from purchase date; alternator, blower motor, brakes, sway bar links, outside window trims, temp gauge that burns out every 6k miles, serpentine belt, wheel bearings, broken cup holders, gas cap cover had to be pried open every time, various inside lights constantly burned out, paint peeling off front end, heat slow to warm up, weak A/C and the fuel pump wiring was at the point where I had to lean back and hold the plug down while turning the key to get the thing to start.

My all-time favorite car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my Contour used and have put a lot of happy miles on it. It has the largest standard wheel/tire combo available and I suspect the engine management chip may have been tweaked by a previous owner. It handles like a dream, virtually the same as my '03 Focus SVT (it helps that it's lower and wider than the SVT). Power from the Zetec 4 is quite adequate for occasional gusto driving, and works well with the OD automatic transmission. The state troopers once gave me a certificate that it can indeed go 92 MPH without breathing too hard. The only costly maintenance has been to replace the timing belt at 60k miles as recommended.

A nice looker & driver / keeps you broke

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Car purchased by my wife with 35k miles, she puts 34 miles a day to work and home. Within the first year tires were shot, alignment bad, replaced ball joints, the large belt. Then at 50k to 60k miles front wheel bearings, Brake rotors, calipers. since then alternator, large belt. Now at 120k the front wheel bearings and brake rotors (warped) and now head gasket!

Ford's cost-cutting shows

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought this car slightly used, based on favorable reviews in the car magazines. It is a sporty sedan that packs a lot of value for the money. The engine, suspension and brakes are well-suited for the enthusiast driver. However, this is the most fragile car I have ever owned. With less than 75k on the odometer, I have had to replace the water pump (a flawed design with a plastic impeller wheel), the catalyst, and the starter motor. The check engine light turning on is a quarterly event. The stock CD player would skip if you looked at it cross-eyed. Owning this car makes me believe that when Ford lines up suppliers, it always takes the low bidder. Ford: you have lost this customer.

My wheels.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

My Contour now has 198,000 miles on it. I bought it used with about 34,000 miles(mostly highway) and have owned it for 7 years now. I changed the transmission once, the alternator once, several belt changes, headlight problems, and several other minor changes, but never any engine problems. It is still a fun car to drive but since it was my first car I am ready to move on to foreign cars (less maintenance).

Mary's review

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

This car fails to meet normal wear and tear, it starts at about 5 years old. First the engine check light come on and no can fix, except for 250 dollars, then they can turn it off. Next, continual problems with the wheel, axles, bearing, alternator assembly; replaced alternator, water heater, timing chain, and last but not least the transmission is shot -- every time I turned something was wrong with this vehicle. What a piece of junk, I will never buy anything again that says Ford or Mazda since my car has a Mazda transmission in it. Need to have over head light in the middle of the car you can't see in the back seat when it's dark.

1996 Contour

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Bought from my father who owned it since new. This car has had multiple maintenance related problems. By 85,000 miles, replaced alternator (which is difficult to access for remove and replace and very expensive), heater blower motor, heater resistor pack, and both wheel hub bearings. I have a continuing problem, yet unsolved, of the radiator fan not turning on when the temperature gauge reads high unless the a/c is on. Check engine light comes on intermittently with an "EGR flow excessive" code read-out. This seems to be too many problems for a car that has had regular maintenance and mostly highway miles. For those reasons, I do not recommend buying, even though it drives well.

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is very fun to drive. It handles great and has a lot of power with a small 2.5L V6. I have a SE model which in my opinion looks better and it handles better due to different sway bars and shock valving. No problems with this car, just regular maintenance.

My Contour

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I've had no major problems with the engine or performance in the last 8 years. The only recurring problems were with the body parts such as plastic interior items breaking including gear shifter, mechanical window repairs on 4 occasions, etc. Overall I have been very happy with my purchase. A very economical vehicle.

Steer Clear

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Steer clear of this Ford contraption. It was nothing but trouble since we bought it. We had to replace two alternators, a power steering pump, and would have had to replace a transmission if we had kept it about 5 minutes more.

Time to move on

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

As a commuter car (500+miles per week) my contour has held up well. I have had problems with the sensors (too many to note), transmission (111,000), air conditioner, and wheel bearings (70,000 and 120,000). At 145000 miles I never thought it would last this long.

Great Value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has beren a great vehicle! The only major repairs have bee replacing the timing belt at 90,000 miles and the front wheel bearings at 102,000 miles. The car holds the road great and still has good acceleration. It has been paid off for a few years now and is still running fine.

Might want to steer clear of this one...

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought this car with 80k on it and it was good for a while. Tranny is very problematic as are sensors. Replaced water pump and serpentine belt. Front bearings and alternator twice. Ford transmissions seem very crappy. Vehicle always stalls at stop lights, even in neutral. Might want to try something another car.

Weird Stuff Breaks on this Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

I love the design of the Contour. The outside is nice to look at, and the interior controls are very well placed, with excellent ergonomics. HOWEVER....all *kinds* of weird stuff breaks on this car that shouldn't. Examples: Coil springs(!), front wheel bearings(!), timing belt clatters terribly, headlights-on warning chime, heat only works in defrost position, rubber weatherstrips fly off, transmission went after 125k miles, AC doesn't hold charge etc, etc... You can read all about these flaws in the Ford "TSB - Technical Service Bulletins". If you buy this car, make sure to buy the service manual and technical service bulletins - you'll need them!

GREAT Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my 96 Ford Contour. This car has been nothing but reliable. I have over 108,000 and other than minor repairs I have had to do nothing to keep my car running smoothly. If it were a little bigger I would keep it forever.

Excellent value

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought it 4 years ago from owner.. Been a Ford expected a lot of issue. So far only one minor issue. Front power window actuator broke. Wish I had the larger engine, but even with the 2L (Shift stick) it is fun to drive. For what I paid for it, It was plesent surprise, especialy performence and handling, but alos reliability.

Please with Contour

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Very pleased with car. Bought it nes off the lot. Car has been very realiable and is fun to drive.

DON'T BUY A 96 CONTOUR!!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I had nothing but problems with this car after it hit 50,000 miles!! First the drivetrain and then the radiator and the water pump and then the wheel cylinders whet bad! Don't buy a 96 contour unless you enjoy constant aggervation and automotive problems!

Hardly a problem

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car gets about 25 or 26 mpg and has been very reliable.

Nothing But A Problem!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

We bought this car new in 1996. The gas mileage was awful from the start, and the car has been in the shop so many times I've lost count! We kept it serviced regular,and tried to give it the best of care, and still gad to have a new motor at 60,000 miles. We contacted the local ford dealers as well as the Ford headquarters and recieved absolutely no cooperation, so needless to say we never want another Ford!!!! We had the new motor put in and it has still given us nothing but trouble! Noone can seem to fix the hunk of junk! We really believe the old ford joke now, "fix or repair daily!"

Many miles, still running

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I have 173,000 miles on the contour and it still runs very well. No loss in compression or fuel mileage. Had to replace 2 power window motors, timing belt tensioner, and front ball joints. I hope to get 200k miles before I send it to its final resting place!

Excellent Engine -- Poor Suspension

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

The 4-cylinder in the Contour seems to be excellent -- 114,000 miles and no problems. And tremendous get-up and go for such a small engine on the freeway. However, the suspension and body construction problems (can no longer open gas cover from driver's seat) are troublesome. And no one seems to be able to correct them.

What a great car... even after seven yrs

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very comfortable car packed full of options. Even after 100,000 miles, the car has plenty of power and acceleration. I've taken great care of the car and it still looks and drives like new. I would highly a Countour SE if it has been taken care of.

ford contour

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

New Car Purchase-did not work by time home(engine problem) . Shortly after -sunroof did not work. Shortly after that- floormattes let off a fume per floor heat was so hot(Ford said this was normal). Carpet coming up- ford refused to fix, but did fix radio . After 1 year- rubbers to windows flew off. 3 years- bottom leaks water so carpets are all wet in back and trunck (mildew). Ford refused to fix. No customer service after purchase(i.e. beg for a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired though you pulled off the lot w/ a faulty vehicle)

Good Old Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Well,I've owned this contour v6 for over a year and so far haven't had any major repairs ,just some negligible minor flaws,trunk release cable snapped,thus solely use keyless entry to operate,oil pan gasket shows minor leaks and power steering fluid line also minorly leaks.Aside from above it's fun to drive and reliable .Conclusion pros:well executed interior design and materials other than plastic on dashboard,brake and steering feels,light clutch,close gear ratio,acceleration at highway speed,4 discs,roadholding personality cons:too stiff ride,fit and finish,rattles and sqeaks,torque steer,road noise,low end grunt,rear legroom

I miss my contour

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a fun car to drive. I have not really had any major problems with it, just a few recalls that had to be taken care of (headlight connector and heating switch or something like that.) I have the 4 cyl engine and it still has kick after 7 years, just make sure you keep up the maintanance. It is in the shop now getting the timing belt replaced, can't wait to get it back :-)

96 contour

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

To many repairs plus the dealership is as bad as they come. Way to many warrenty repairs. Selling tires and others had to be replaced only 30K miles in. As someone once rated this this is a poor quality car. Hopefully they have corrected in later models.

So Far So Good

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

No major problems to this point. Fun to drive with 5 speed. Gas milage great! Not so good in the snow! Great front buckets, I wish I had them in my Mustang! One and only problem, no tilt wheel. I love this car.

Worth the Money

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I think that if Ford stuck with this car for as long as Japanese Co. usaully do, then they would have a winner. It takes time to work out gremlins. If the driver follows the owner manual checkups and replaces the timing belt at 60,000, then you may get a good car for the money. Before you buy: check heater switch, battery life, AC life, headlight connectors.

Fun car as long as it's running

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I have owned this car for two years now and have thoroughly enjoyed it's handling and power. The V6 provides strong accelaration despite its low horsepower rating. The build quality and car's reliability is terrible, though. I have gone through 3 water pumps in the last year ($250-400/pump). My first blown pump almost cost me my engine, as there is no temperature warning light and blown pumps often don't trip the coolant warning light. I have also had frozen valves ($400), gone through 3 catalytic converters (luckily covered by CA emissions), and a busted dimmer switch that shorted out my dash ($150). I will never buy another Ford.

Why not improve the this car?

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I wish Ford would continued to build and improve this vehicle. Anyway, the transmission failed at 123,000 and I had it rebuilt at Cottman. Coming home from work, the transmission again failed at 209,000. I wasn't expecting the transmission to fail again. I decided to use Slick-50 transmission lubricant. Some people have warned me about using additives for the transmission. Anyway, none of the forward gears are working. I am considering replacing it with another CD4E transmission because I love the car so much. I have also replaced the timing belt and radiator.

STAY AWAY

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I had a lot of problems with the car after 60,000 miles. Around 70,000 to 80,000 most people who own this model will need to get a new transmission. The check engine light now around 90,000 is constantly on. I am about to get rid of it and I don't even want to sell it to anyone, I am trading it in for a Honda Civic.

Black Beauty

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

One of the best cars ever! I love it, but very cold weather starts are a bit of a challenge. Styling is phenominal, plus the five speed V6 is very potent. This is my first manual, so learning wasn't too tricky.

My Contour

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car several months ago and have enjoyed it immensely. It has had no serious problems, just regular maintenance. It is a joy to drive and I get a lot of comments on how nice it looks. The 5-speed takes a little getting used to, but makes the ride much more enjoyable than an auto. Overall I would give this car 5 stars for a cheap, fun, good looking ride.

Couldn't Wait to Get Rid of It

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I had a lot of problems with the car. The first day I owned it the check engine light went on, that should have been a sign that the car was a piece of junk. By the time I got rid of it I didn't even want to sell it to anyone, I traded it in to the dealer so they could deal with it.

Too bad I can't buy another one

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my contour! It now has over 100K miles and is still going strong. It has always started and besides minor irritations like the cup holder and recurring problems with turn signal I have enjoyed this car. Amount of mileage has me shopping for another car - I hate the focus too bad I can't get another contour.

1996 Ford Contour GL

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

I originally thought that I was got a great deal on this car off the Ford 'B' Lot, but am starting to question it. I purchased the extended warranty, which covered the total cost of the "blown" engine ($5500 at the dealer) at 58K Miles, but since then, there has been a vibration in the steering wheel (motor mounts ???). The car is in the shop now needing a new battery and accessory cable plus distribution box. Estimate given was over $1,000 for the repair. Overall though, it's been a very nice ride and great ergonomics/human factors.

Problems

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This car has been nothing but trouble. I have had many sets of brakes, new calipers and new caliper kits, new rotors. Several recalls for the blower and the blower switch. I had all new fuel lines and fuel sensors, o2 sensors replaced on 2 occasions. The cup holder holds 1 can drink and has been broken for a long time and it cost $80.00 for a new one. I have had to replace the moonroof motor. The switch for the windows is broken and it is $50.00 just for the part. If this car had been driven hard before I got it I could understand. But, I bought this car new. It had 7 miles on it when I drove it from the lot. I will NEVER buy another Ford product.

Good for the first 86,000 miles...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

My wife and I have had the Contour for 3 years now and have had no major problems. Oil changes every 3,000 miles, and a tuneup and injector cleaning about a year ago. It has been quite dependable, and my wife often puts on 300 miles a week of highway driving. But now it's getting to the point where it seems like things will start to go wrong. It's losing power, dies occasionally after starting it up first thing in the morning, and the shifts from the automatic transmission are not nearly as smooth as they used to be.

Good and Bad

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

The Contour I purchased has great mileage and the car is extra clean however there are some problems worth mentioning.The Contour has a history of blowing the timing belt around 80,000 miles as well as air conditioning problems around 50,000 I havent had thse problems but I did have to replace the relay,radiator,and fan in the motor before ever driving the car.The other problem that I had was the design of the cup holder in the middle console.It broke and now Ford is replacing the whole item with a new item for 80.00

First, last & only Ford I will ever buy

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

1996 V6 LX. Bought mine with the Ford 100,000 mile warranty and I am sure glad that I did. I estimate that I had about 12 to $15,000 worth of repairs under that warranty. Hood, roof & trunk painted twice. 4 Catalytic Converters. A/C, Power Seats & Right Power Window all failed. Just about every sensor in engine has been replaced at least once. Constant thump from rear suspension that was never fixed. Persistent stalling problem. Finally at 110,000, I dumped $2500 into it to try to fix the stalling problem to no avail. Traded it in for $1500 and bought a Camry.

Worst car I ever owned

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This vehicle has had too many problems to mention. It has had the electrical system replaced twice. All the A/C vents inside are broken. All the cup holders are too flimsy. The A/C fan components have been replaced at least once.

Good dependability even with annoyances

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

We purchased our Contour used in 1997. It has been dependable overall. The feel and performance is good. Even with 110,000 mile the 4 cyl engine has some pep. Majority of problems have been electrical in light switch (recall), heater blower switch (recall) and bad door light switches (on third one so far) to name a few. Other items was broken front coil springs (again a recall) and annoying belt squeal that won't go away even when replaced. Ford has been very good at identifying and replacing recall items. Ford needs to establish a better electrical design team to eliminate the vast electrical problems. They fester as small but annoying items.

Great car, excellent value!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Our 1996 Contour SE Sport, bought in 1998 with 28K miles, was my wife's car until 6 months ago. She now has a new Mazda Tribute and I get to drive the Contour everyday, which I love! This car is FUN TO DRIVE! It's 'tight', handles and brakes great and the exhaust note makes you think you are going faster than you are. If it had the 5-speed trans (wife can't drive a stick), I would replace the front seats, add 17 wheels/tires, add 30-40 hp, and I would keep it until the wheels fell off.

dependable

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife and I bought our 96 contour with 45k and drove it to 98k in 2 years. The car was dependable but seemed to have a ghost, blinker blinked fast occasionally, interior lights sometimes worked, died if went in reverse and braked quickly sometimes, the front wheel popped when turning all the way a direction, rear made a rubbing noise over bumps, med/hi worked on blower if turned slowly. Shifter coming out of drive into park was rough. No major problems just routine things.

124,000 miles/4cyc.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Only repairs have been wiring harness, coil, o2 sensors and R front power window motor replacement.

Why the Ford Contour is best for me...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The Ford Contour had 40,000 miles on it when i purchased it. I have 3 kids, and they also loved our car. We do much running around because of the fact i am a mother of 3. All of them are in to sports. All three of them have practice on weekends and after school. So many miles have been put to the car. And is Still running just as strong and looks great and sounds great.

Couldn't be happier with this car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is excellent for students like myself. It offers decent fuel mileage, good comfort, performance and safety. I bought mine in August '01 and it had 194 ks. The first time I drove in it, I couldn't believe how peppy the 4 cylinder can be and how quiet it remains. I also love the smoothness of the 4 speed automatic transmission. It's main appeal is it's handling. (Couldn't ask for better)

Life of a V6 Automatic

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

The ride comfort is the best part. I work 63 miles away from home and when I get out of the car after the trip I feel like I've been sitting on a couch for an hour and a half. Ford mechanics are poor on the V6 design. Oil changes will leave your exhaust covered in oil, the catalytics plug up after 40k miles, the waterpump uses a plastic propeller that breaks after 30k miles, the rotors warp easily, the plastic components including door handles (inside and out) came loose at 75k, other little things like a melted alternator, wires shorting out, wheel bearings, automatic transmission take away a lot of V6 power.

Ok car - has a lot of little problems

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

I got my contour back in 98, it had 30,000 miles on it. Within the first month I had to take it in for the recall on the heat blower switch. Then I had to have new rotors put on it a couple months after that. It seemed to run good for a while. Now the latest is that I have no dash lights, the right hand blinker doesn't work, the heater switch doesn't work again and it runs loud. But it is pretty reliable as I haven't had any major things go on it.

I got a good one

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Contour SE MTX w/80,000 mi. The car has been great fun, I have been pleased with the reliability. The car has had 5 dealer visits in 6 years wor recalls or non-warranty repairs. It gets 27 mpg on the highway. I found the OEM Firestone Firehawks sub-standard in every possible way and replaced them with Dunlop SP4000s and have been very happy.

No problems

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my Ford Contour GL (4 door) brand new at the end of 1995. It is a 1996 model. Today I have over 87,000 miles on it and have been very pleased with the performance and overall quality of the car. It handles well, has plenty of get up and go, and I have had relatively few problems with it. The worst thing I've had fixed were worn rotors and a gas tank cover that continues to have difficulty opening. Other than that, I have been very pleased and would recommend it to someone who is looking to by a used car. We are now looking for a new car simply because my husband wrecked his, but we will be keeping the Contour in the family for several more years I'm sure.

Overall Value

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

My Contour has treated me well. The heater switch failure was recalled and the cupholder was redesigned (97) to not spill on your passenger when taking left hand turns. After 96, Ford made 15" wheels standard for a smoother ride and eventually the 6 cylinder was standard. Why Ford discontiues a car if all the bugs are worked out, I don't know. Maybe the Engineers are bored have to "Focus" on some other problem. My Contour still handles and runs well at 92000 miles.