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1998 Ford Contour Problems: 5 Known Issues

1998 model year · 370+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 370+ owner reports, the 1998 Ford Contour has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak ($150-$500 repair) and CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure ($1,500-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Power Window Regulator Gear Stripping with 200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $80 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Contour Cooling1
  • Contour Transmission1
  • Contour Electrical2
  • Contour Engine1
  • Recalls21
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Cooling1
  • Transmission1
  • Electrical2
  • Engine1
  • Recalls21
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS200019991998199719961995

On the 1995-2000 Ford Contour 2.5L V6, the plastic coolant elbows and crossover tube at the rear of the 2.5L V6 crack and leak coolant. These are difficult to see and reach, often leading to unnoticed coolant loss and overheating.

This issue also affects: Ford Mustang

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant loss
  • Overheating
  • Sweet smell from engine
  • Steam from rear of engine

How to Fix

Replace the plastic coolant elbows with aluminum aftermarket versions for permanence. Replace the crossover tube if cracked. Requires partial intake removal on V6.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 1995-2000 Ford Contour, the CD4E automatic transmission used in the Contour is one of the most failure-prone transmissions Ford has produced. The forward clutch pack, servo bore, and torque converter clutch are common failure points.

This issue also affects: Ford Aerostar, Ford Bronco, Ford Crown Victoria

Common Symptoms

  • Delayed engagement
  • Slipping in gear
  • Harsh 1-2 shift
  • No reverse

How to Fix

Begin by confirming the failure with a road test and scan for transmission-related DTCs, then check fluid level/condition and line pressure to distinguish internal clutch or servo damage from valve body or solenoid problems. On the CD4E, delayed engagement, slipping, harsh 1-2 shifts, and loss of reverse usually indicate internal wear of the forward clutch, servo bore, valve body, or torque converter clutch, so the durable repair is typically a full rebuild or quality remanufactured unit with updated clutch packs, servo bore repair sleeve, revised valve body/solenoids, new torque converter, and fresh cooler flush or cooler replacement. If caught early, some units may benefit from valve body repair and solenoid replacement, but most symptomatic Contours require transmission removal and overhaul. Typical cost is about $2,500-$4,000 for a rebuilt/remanufactured CD4E installed, while minor valve body or solenoid repairs may run roughly $500-$1,200.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $3,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 1995-2000 Ford Contour, the alternator on both 2.0L and 2.5L V6 engines fails prematurely, often before 80,000 miles. The voltage regulator or diode pack burns out, causing battery drain and electrical issues. The 2.5L V6 alternator is particularly difficult to access.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco Sport, Ford F-150, Ford Bronco

Common Symptoms

  • Battery light on
  • Dim headlights
  • Dead battery
  • Electrical accessories intermittent

How to Fix

Replace the alternator. On V6 models, access requires removing the intake manifold or approaching from below. Use a high-quality rebuilt or new unit.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
200 owners

On the 1995-2000 Ford Contour, the Contour's power window regulators use plastic gears that strip over time, causing the window to drop into the door or become inoperable. The driver's side fails most frequently. Cold weather accelerates the plastic gear failure.

Common Symptoms

  • Window drops into door
  • Grinding noise from door when operating window
  • Window moves in jerky increments
  • Window falls down after raising
  • Motor runs but window doesn't move
  • Clicking from door panel

How to Fix

Replace the window regulator assembly. Aftermarket regulators with metal gears are available and last significantly longer than OEM plastic gear units. Lubricate the window channels during installation.

Typical repair cost:$80 - $250

Research This Issue

Based on 200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
170 owners

On the 1998-2000 Ford Contour 2.5L Duratec V6, the 2.5L Duratec V6 in the Contour SVT and some base models uses intake manifold runner control (IMRC) butterflies that seize or break due to carbon buildup. This causes a noticeable loss of mid-range power and a check engine light.

This issue also affects: Mercury Cougar

Common Symptoms

  • Loss of mid-range power
  • Check engine light
  • Rattling from intake manifold
  • Poor throttle response between 3000-5000 RPM
  • Hesitation on acceleration
  • Reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Remove and clean the IMRC butterflies and shafts. Replace the IMRC actuator solenoids if they have failed. Some owners remove the butterflies entirely for a slight performance gain, though this triggers a CEL.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $400

Research This Issue

Based on 170 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence170 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
NHTSA Recalls21 recalls

SUSPENSION

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.

Campaign #08E03300014/04/2008

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

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 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.

Campaign #06E02200013/03/2006

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

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.

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Other Ford Models

Ford F-15094Ford Explorer73Ford Escape48Ford Mustang46Ford Fiesta32Ford Bronco32

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Contour problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 370+ owner reports, the 1998 Ford Contour has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak, CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure, IMRC Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Ford Contour reliable?

The 1998 Ford Contour has 5 known issues documented across 370+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak and CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Contour problems?

Repair costs for known Ford Contour issues range from $80 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak, typically costs $150-$500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Coolant Crossover Tube and Elbow Leak?

The plastic coolant elbows and crossover tube at the rear of the 2.5L V6 crack and leak coolant. These are difficult to see and reach, often leading to unnoticed coolant loss and overheating. Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.

What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure?

The CD4E automatic transmission used in the Contour is one of the most failure-prone transmissions Ford has produced. The forward clutch pack, servo bore, and torque converter clutch are common failure points. Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,000. Severity: high.

What is the 1998-2000 Ford Contour IMRC Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 370+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #00V35000030/10/2000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS

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.

Campaign #00V07500009/03/2000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES BUILT WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WHICH UTILIZE A PARK/LOCK SOLENOID. IT IS POSSIBLE TO ROTATE THE IGNITION KEY TO THE LOCK POSITION AND REMOVE THE KEY WITHOUT THE SHIFT LEVER AND TRANSMISSION BEING IN PARK. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION."

Campaign #99V06000017/03/1999

+ 16 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

The 2.5L Duratec V6 in the Contour SVT and some base models uses intake manifold runner control (IMRC) butterflies that seize or break due to carbon buildup. This causes a noticeable loss of mid-range power and a check engine light. Repairs typically run $100-$400. Severity: medium.

What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Alternator Premature Failure?

The alternator on both 2.0L and 2.5L V6 engines fails prematurely, often before 80,000 miles. The voltage regulator or diode pack burns out, causing battery drain and electrical issues. The 2.5L V6 alternator is particularly difficult to access. Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 1995-2000 Ford Contour Power Window Regulator Gear Stripping?

The Contour's power window regulators use plastic gears that strip over time, causing the window to drop into the door or become inoperable. The driver's side fails most frequently. Cold weather accelerates the plastic gear failure. Repairs typically run $80-$250. Severity: low.