1998 Ford Contour
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Ford › Contour › 1998
These records cover every 1998 Ford Contour. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
12 recalls name the 1998 Ford Contour. Newest first.
Federal mogul IS recalling 6,903 aftermarket ball joint assemblies shipped between november 9, 2007 and march 26, 2008, which may have been packaged with incorrect nuts. the part numbers packaged with incorrect nuts are: k7147, k7329, k8683, and 104353. these parts were made for use on the various vehicles listed above.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The nuts included in the packaging for these ball joint assemblies are missing the intended prevailing torque (self-locking) feature. if the incorrect nut was to become loose, the joining members may loosen leading to a separation of the ball joint. this may result in loss of vehicle control, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Federal mogul will notify owners and replace the parts free of charge. the recall began on may 22, 2008. owners can contact federal mogul at 877-489-6659.
Certain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain ford, daimlerchrysler, and jeep passenger vehicles. these brake cylinders were sold under the brand names of napa, raybestos, aimco, ac delco, carquest, bendix, and wagner. only products that were manufactured from july 27, 2005 through january 17, 2006…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Loss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Affinia (brake parts, inc.) will replace the subject brake hydraulic master cylinders free of charge. the recall began on march 20, 2006. owners can contact affina group customer service at 1-800-323-0354.
This IS not a safety recall in accordance with the safety act. however, it IS deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. vehicle description: 1998 ford contour/mercury mystique passenger vehicles built at the kansas city assembly plant. the front coil springs could potentially fracture due to corrosion.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring.
Remedy
Ford IS extending the warranty for front coil spring replacement for the front coil springs for 10 years from original date of sale of a vehicle or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles built at the kansas city assembly plant and originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, and…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring.
Remedy
Dealers will install spring catcher brackets. owner notification began october 23, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
On certain my 1996-1998 passenger vehicles built at the kansas city, cuautitlan assembly plants or on my 1999 passenger vehcles built at the automotive alliance international assembly plants, the rough surface of the heater blower resistor's stainless steel blades can damage the copper surface of the wiring harness connector. the damage could, over time…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The open circuit could lead to electrical arcing that could melt the connector housing material creasing the potential for a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new heater blower resistor and a new wire jumper harness. owner notification began august 29, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Vehicle description: bi-fuel vehicles. these vehicles may have a fuel tank filler pipe grommet that could have been damaged during the installation of the bi-fuel system. if the grommet IS damaged, fuel could leak. fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. dealers will replace the fuel tank filler pipe grommet.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the grommet IS damaged, fuel could leak. fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel tank filler pipe grommet.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles not equipped with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). a pressure conscious reducing valve (pcrv) in the rear brakes may be subject to corrosion and result in malfunction, when operated in areas that use salt compounds on the roadway for de-icing or dust control.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If both pcrv's malfunction, vehicle handling could be adversely affected during braking as a result of the rear wheels locking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install improved pcrv's in the rear brake system. this recall was expanded in september 2000 to include 1999 and 2000 ford contour, mercury mystique and cougar vehicles.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the air bag sensor wiring pigtail insulation can become brittle and crack over time due to accumulation of water in the pigtail protective convolute in combination with high underhood temperatures related to the routing of the wiring pigtail near the radiator. this can result in environmental stress cracking of…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In some cases, the air bag warning light can illuminate and the air bag supplemental restraint system disabled.
Remedy
Dealers will install air bag sensors with revised wiring insulation. in addition, vehicles which have the air bag warning light illuminated will have a new air bag diagnostic monitor installed.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the accelerator cable may have been manufactured with a burr on or near the end of the cable sleeve interior. this burr could fray the core wire resulting in the accelerator not returning to idle when the accelerator IS released.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition can result in the throttle sticking, binding, or causing high engine rpm.
Remedy
Dealers will install a revised accelerator cable that has a flared conduit sleeve end and molded on end fitting.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the terminals at the headlight switch and wiring harness connector can experience heat damage as a result of overheating.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The damage could result in distortion of the terminal causing an open circuit in the instrument panel illumination, parking lamp, and tail lamp circuits.
Remedy
Dealers will install a headlamp switch wiring connector containing bronze terminals and an inspection, and replacement if necessary, of the headlamp switch.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the floor shift automatic transmission control can be damaged if subjected to certain interior cleaning products. the gear position indicator can deteriorate and not correctly indicate the actual gear position.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition can result in incorrect gear selection.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the automatic transmission floor shift control.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the text and/or graphics for the vehicle headlamp aiming instructions provided in the owner guides are not sufficiently clear. this does not meet the requirements of fmvss no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the headlamp assemblies are replaced, customers may be confused by the aiming instructions provided in the owner guides causing the headlamps to be improperly aimed.
Remedy
Owner guides containing revised aiming instructions will be mailed to owners of these vehicles.
Owner complaints
846 complaints50 involved a crash20 involved a fire54 injuries4 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Suspension
Vehicle won't pass inspection due to a Broken or cracked coil spring front passenger side. It was in a recall that we never received notification. And I don't feel like we should be out over $200 to get it licensed.
- Electrical system
"Takara recall" my heater motor in my 98 ford contour SE just stopped working.
- Electrical system · Power train · Service brakes
Was driving down route 322 on day and had to hit the break and all of a sudden they went to the floor. I pulled over and checked my break fluid resivour and it was empty. I think the passenger side drum break IS leaking fluid.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Engine · Unknown or other
Takata recall I and other consumers have contacted ford regarding the 1998 ford contour and it's defective parts including the engine wire harness yet they are refusing to acknowledge nor accept responsibility for or correct the problem stating it's not under recall t*jbreating each person who has…
Takata recall I and other consumers have contacted ford regarding the 1998 ford contour and it's defective parts including the engine wire harness yet they are refusing to acknowledge nor accept responsibility for or correct the problem stating it's not under recall t*jbreating each person who has contacted them as if they are an island and this IS a isolated event my water pump,flashers,brake lights,have been all affected by this also my check engine light IS on making me unable to register my car and get updated tags please contact t me regarding this matter as I and other consumers need help with this .[xxx] via email also [xxx]. vin invalid information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr*jb
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. While driving approximately 40 mph on a wet road, the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the coil springs were damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. While driving approximately 40 mph on a wet road, the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the coil springs were damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that the failure recurred every time the road was wet. The approximate failure mileage was 137,000.
- Power train
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that the reverse gear failed to operate. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 98v233000 (power train). However, the vin was not listed under the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was unknown.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings · Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
1998 ford contour. consumer writes in regards to vehicle brake line corrosion. *smd the consumer stated the brakes the failed. The repair shop, stated there was no brake fluid in the reservoir. The consumer also stated the gas line leading to the tank had to be replaced, due to corrosion. *Jb
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician diagnosed that the engine wiring harness was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.
- Electrical system
I just traded and got this car, it seems to sway in the back going over wet roads or bumpy roads not sure what it IS, but I fear my safety as the previous owner did not tell me about this. I also have noticed that the temperature gauge does not work and the heater blower only works on high. I cannot afford to get things fixed if there IS recalls on them. *tr
- Electrical system · Engine
I am the owner of a 1998 ford contour and the engine harness wire overheated over a long period of time and I was unaware until I had to change my radiator due to a leak and the harness wire had to be disconnected. that was when we found the wire melted and cracked and could not be reused. this…
I am the owner of a 1998 ford contour and the engine harness wire overheated over a long period of time and I was unaware until I had to change my radiator due to a leak and the harness wire had to be disconnected. that was when we found the wire melted and cracked and could not be reused. this harness connects to vehicle main supply. without harness vehicle IS not operable. ford should be responsible to replace defective harness. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, there was a strong gasoline fuel smell. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician stated there was a fuel vapor leak in the fuel filler grommet. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, there was a strong gasoline fuel smell. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician stated there was a fuel vapor leak in the fuel filler grommet. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 00v350000 (fuel system, other:storage:tank assembly) but was advised by the manufacturer that the vin was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 122,000.
- Electrical system · Fuel system, gasoline
The engine wiring harness which connects to the vehicle's main power supply box has wiring for which the insulation comes off exposing live, bare wires. this leads to shorts in the electrical system which affects drivability (engine runs erratically and affects the electric fuel pumps operation)…
The engine wiring harness which connects to the vehicle's main power supply box has wiring for which the insulation comes off exposing live, bare wires. this leads to shorts in the electrical system which affects drivability (engine runs erratically and affects the electric fuel pumps operation) and could lead to a vehicle fire if the wiring suffers catastrophic failure. it goes without saying that if the car's fuel supply or engine control systems fail, the driver may lose control and become involved in a crash or collision. ford does not sale replacement parts nor are parts available on the secondary market. the part number for the wiring harness on my car IS f8rz14289ca. ford should be required to replace these defective harnesses. *tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Was on I65 was driving fine hird a loud explosion engine started to rev up a piece of the transmission casing went into my tire causing a blow out, car became out of control and hit gaurdrail. *tt
- Power train › Automatic transmission · Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Floor shift
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. the contact was driving 30 mph when the vehicle suddenly shifted into first gear. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 98v233000 (power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shift) but the manufacturer stated that the vehicle…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. the contact was driving 30 mph when the vehicle suddenly shifted into first gear. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 98v233000 (power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shift) but the manufacturer stated that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The contact was concerned that the sudden downshift could cause a crash. the failure mileage was 22,000. updated 06/10/11 *bf updated 2/08/2012 *ln *tr the consumer stated the defect ecm/pcm engine control computer and replaced at the tune of $750 with a part used part. *Tr
- Electrical system
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated while driving various speeds his tail lamps, parking lamps, and the instrumental panel malfunctioned. The vehicle was not inspected by a dealer nor was it repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.
- Air bags · Electrical system
My 1998 ford contour has three safety recalls. however, I'm having a terrible time getting ford to provide the parts needed to service the vehicle. the recalls are: (a) 01s22 - heater blower resistor and connector, (b) 99s14 - headlight switch connector, and (c) 99s23 - front crash sensors.…
My 1998 ford contour has three safety recalls. however, I'm having a terrible time getting ford to provide the parts needed to service the vehicle. the recalls are: (a) 01s22 - heater blower resistor and connector, (b) 99s14 - headlight switch connector, and (c) 99s23 - front crash sensors. presently my airbags are offline and offer no crash protection. it's been a little over a month since I began trying to get this resolved (basically when I bought the car - the seller didn't disclose the recalls were not fixed to me). the blower stopped working a few days ago and it smelled like electrical wires were perhaps burning. so now I don't have defrost/defog capability. the dealer IS trying to get the parts, but ford hasn't shipped them. *tr
- Electrical system
I own a 1998 ford contour SE V6 manual trans vin #[xxx] the under the hood wiring harness IS failing there was a recall for this defective part but ford continues to say that my car IS not under the recall the insulation on the wiring harness has completely flaked or crumbled off causing the car…
I own a 1998 ford contour SE V6 manual trans vin #[xxx] the under the hood wiring harness IS failing there was a recall for this defective part but ford continues to say that my car IS not under the recall the insulation on the wiring harness has completely flaked or crumbled off causing the car not to run or potential deadly fire no help from ford motor company. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that when dispensing fuel into the fuel tank, the automatic fuel nozzle would shut off at any fuel capacity level. The failure was a continuous occurrence when dispensing fuel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where they…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that when dispensing fuel into the fuel tank, the automatic fuel nozzle would shut off at any fuel capacity level. The failure was a continuous occurrence when dispensing fuel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where they informed the contact that the fuel pipe flapper valve would need to be replaced. There was a manufacturers voluntary recall (manufacturer recall number: 01m04) yet the manufacturer informed the contact that the vin was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. The contact stated that the driver was driving at an unknown speed when the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to the contact, who was a certified independent mechanic, where he discovered that all of the wires under the hood were exposed and corroding. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 284,371.
- Electrical system
Wiring connector that feeds the hvac system burned and melted the connector plug and main fuse block at the point of the connector. This wire was a size 10 awg and IS oversized for the connector that it IS used for. This caused a fire at the connector. I have picture IS you would like a copy. *Tr
- Electrical system
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. While driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle lost all power. The contact was able to coast onto the emergency lane. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who stated that the vehicle had severe electrical problems and suggested that the vehicle be taken…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford contour. While driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle lost all power. The contact was able to coast onto the emergency lane. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who stated that the vehicle had severe electrical problems and suggested that the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealer. The dealer advised the contact that the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage were 92,000.
- Latches/locks/linkages › Hood › Latch
1998 ford contour, vehicle hood came loose and hit the roof of the vehicle. *Bf (ohio traffic crash report # 10-0296-90)*jb
- Electrical system
I heard about the ford contour engine wiring harness recall only by internet. My car IS a ford contour sport 1998. The wire insulation IS peeling off in the whole harness, and the car IS stopped now. Mileage IS approx. 110000. I never received any message from ford. I am the only owner of the car. *Tr
- Electrical system
The wiring insulation on my 1998 ford contour IS literally falling off the wires. I am afraid to touch any wire because the insulation just flakes off leaving bare wire. this has been occurring for quite some time and apparently IS fairly common in this model. *Tr
- Electrical system
Insulation on wiring harness breaking and falling off.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Incorrect gear indication
There is no summary currently available
- Blower switch/resistor or wiring harness
There is no summary currently available
- Fuel expulsion during refueling
There is no summary currently available
- Fuel expulsion during refueling
There is no summary currently available
- Blower switch/resistor or wiring harness
There is no summary currently available
- Various intermittent electrical issues
There is no summary currently available
- Fuel gauge does not read below 1/4
Ford's service bulletin dated december 8, 1997, points out that the fuel gauge will not read above 3/4 tank or below 1/4 tank of fuel.the erroneous fuel gauge reading will indicate significantly more fuel reserve than actually present in the fuel tank.odi has one complaint where the driver alleged that his vehicle ran…
Ford's service bulletin dated december 8, 1997, points out that the fuel gauge will not read above 3/4 tank or below 1/4 tank of fuel.the erroneous fuel gauge reading will indicate significantly more fuel reserve than actually present in the fuel tank.odi has one complaint where the driver alleged that his vehicle ran out of gas due to a false fuel gauge reading.this investigation wasto ascertain facts concerning the problem experience, scope, and rational for electing not to conduct a safety compaign.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10013115Steering column shipped without crush pad - reuse original crush pad if not damaged.
- 10013086Replacement speaker installation tips.
- 10013060Climate control a/c service tech tips.
- 10011161Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated with diagnostic trouble code(s) p0420 and/or p0430.
- 10008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock.
- 10004027Remote keyless entry (rke) - service tips.
- 10003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included.
- 10003193The malfunction indicator lamp (mil) may be illuminated and diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p1380, p1381, p1383, and/or p0340 may be stored in memory.
- 10003149Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with no hard fault.
- 10002780Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with diagnostic trouble codes p0442, p0455, p0456, p0457, p1442 or check fuel cap lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code p0457.
- 10002767Vehicles without the coolant lock-off may exhibit a no start condition.
- 10002766Compressed natural gas (CNG). Rough idle or no start when cold. Vehicles equipped with CNG bi-fuel engine only.
- 10002598Inoperative shift interlock solenoid or repeat instrument interface module failure.
- 6092221Some vehicles equipped with 2.0L engine may exhibit a timing belt shredding or timing belt striking the front cover.
- 6092178Some vehicles equipped with 2.5L engine and CD4E transmission may exhibit a driveline rattle or clunking type noise during tip-in or transmission gear engagement.
- 6092160Information regarding a/c peanut o-ring color.
- 6091806Bief information regarding diagnostic code retrival on bi-fuel vehicles.
- 6091800Subject regarding technical hotline assistance for bi-fuel vehicles.
- 6091773Concerns with the left air conditioning panel register discharge temperature that IS warmer than the center and / or right vents.
- 6091765Subject regarding 60 amp fuse blown.
- 6091763CD4E transaxle may exhibit a no forward drive concern.
- 6091738Some vehicles may exhibit a vibration at 60 - 70 mph (100 - 115 kph).
- 6091734Information on installing fuses at pre-delivery.
- 6091702Information regarding decklid release issues.
- 6091681Some vehicles may exhibit a front brake groan.
- 6090834Information on using peanut style a/c fittings.
- 6090534Information regarding clunk/rattle on tip-in or transmission gear engagement. *Mjs
- 6090305Concerns with vehicles exhibiting a driveline rattle or clunking type noise during tip-in or transmission gear engagement.
- 6090218Exhibiting a starter grinding noise and / or lack of starter drive engagement.
- 6090198This bulletin addresses an issue with the automatic transmission fluid seeping from the vent, resulting in fluid collecting on the main control assembly.
- 6090196Concerns with the interior lamp staying on.
- 6090131Information on diagnosing a vehicle with malfunction indicator lamp illuminated and diagnostic trouble codes p0442 and p0455 stored in continuous memory.
- 6090087Information on identifying non-approved / alternate refrigerants which could cause safety, and performance concerns if installed in ford a/c systems.
- 6090085Service information for musty and mildew type odors coming from the air conditioning / heating system.
- 6090082Information for servicing and diagnosing brake vibration, brake inspection, and brake friction material replacement.
- 6089681Subject on a wire harness terminal repair kit available for repairing electrical wiring harnesses.
- 6089665Subject regarding vehicles that have water leaking onto front floor from door panel area.
- 6089645A condition with fuel filler door unable to close completely.
- 6089639Concerns with a harsh shift felt at large throttle openings (or at heavy acceleration rate) on some vehicles.
Every Ford Contour model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.