1999 Ford Contour problems
The Ford Mondeo I (first generation) is a mid-size car that was produced by Ford, beginning on 23 November 1992, with sales beginning on 22 March 1993. It is also known as the Mk I Mondeo; the 1996 facelift versions are usually designated Mk II. Available as a four-door saloon, a five-door hatchback, and a five-door estate, all models for the European market were produced at Ford's plant in the Belgian city of Genk. In December 1992, Autocar published a section on the Mondeo, and how it would conquer rivals.
Intended as a world car, it replaced the Ford Sierra in Europe, the Ford Telstar in a large portion of Asia and other markets, while the Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique replaced the Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz in North America. Despite being billed as a world car, the only external items the Mondeo shared initially with the Contour were the windscreen, front windows, front mirrors and door handles. Thus, the CDW27 project turned out not to be a true world car in the sense that the original Ford Focus and newer Fords developed under the "One Ford" policy turned out to be. The first generation Mondeo was replaced in 2000, by the larger second generation; in the United States and Canada, the Contour/Mystique were replaced initially by the Focus and later the Fusion.
Design and development
Mk I
Instigated in 1986 (just before its Sierra predecessor received a major facelift), the design of the car cost Ford US$6 billion. It was one of the most expensive new-car programmes ever. The Mondeo was significant as its design and marketing were shared between Ford USA in Dearborn and Ford of Europe. Its codename while under development reflected thus: CDW27 signified that it straddled the C and D size classes and was a "world car". The head of the Mondeo project was John Oldfield, headquartered at Ford Dunton in Essex.
A large proportion of the high development cost was due to the Mondeo being a completely new design, sharing very little, if anything, with the Ford Sierra. Unlike the Sierra, the Mondeo is front-wheel drive in its most common form, with a rarer four-wheel drive version available on the Mk I car only. Over-optimistically, the floor pan was designed to accept virtually any conceivable drivetrain, from a transverse inline-four engine to a longitudinal V-8. This resulted in a hugely intrusive and mostly disused bellhousing cover and transmission tunnel. Resultingly the front interior, especially the footwells, feels more cramped than would be expected from a vehicle of this size. The Mondeo featured new manual and automatic transmissions and sophisticated suspension design, which give it class-leading handling and ride qualities, and subframes front and rear to give it executive car refinement. The automatic transmission featured electronic control with sport and economy modes plus switchable overdrive. The program manager from 1988, and throughout its early development, was David Price.
By 1989, Ford had confirmed that it would be launching an all-new front-wheel drive car to replace the Sierra within the next four years, although it had not yet decided whether the Sierra name would continue or be replaced, with some subsequent reports even hinting that the Cortina name could make a comeback, having been axed in 1982 when replaced by the Sierra. Several prototypes were tested that year, but the launch of the Nissan Primera in 1990 prompted Ford to make a number of major alterations to the final product, as it saw the new competitor from Nissan to be the benchmark car in this sector, having previously identified the Honda Accord as the class leader.
The car was launched in the midst of turbulent times at Ford of Europe, when the division was haemorrhaging hundreds of millions of dollars, and had gained a reputation in the motoring press for selling products which had been designed by accountants rather than engineers. The fifth-generation Escort and third-generation Orion of 1990 was the zenith of this cost-cutting/high-price philosophy, which was by then beginning to backfire on Ford, with the cars being slated for their substandard ride and handling, though a facelift in 1992 had seen things improve a little. The Sierra had sold well, but not as well as the all-conquering Cortina before it, and in Britain, it had been overtaken in the sales charts by the newer Vauxhall Cavalier. Previously loyal customers were already turning to rival European and Japanese products, and by the time of the Mondeo's launch, the future of Europe as a Ford manufacturing base was hanging in the balance. The new car had to be good, and it had to sell. It was unveiled to the public on 23 November 1992, although sales would not begin for another four months. At this stage, Ford confirmed that the new car would feature a completely new name and would be called the Mondeo.
Safety was a high priority in the Mondeo design, with a driver's side airbag (it was the first-ever car sold from the beginning with a driver's airbag in all of its versions, which helped it achieve the European Car of the Year title for 1994), side-impact bars, seat belt pretensioners, and antilock braking systems (higher models) as standard features. Other features for its year included adaptive damping, self-leveling suspension (top estate models), traction control (V6 and 4WD versions), and heated front windscreen, branded Quickclear.
The interiors were usually well-appointed, featuring velour trim, an arm rest with CD and tape storage, central locking (frequently remote), power windows (all round on higher models), power mirrors, illuminated entry, flat-folding rear seats, etc. Higher-specification models had leather seats, trip computers, electric sunroof, CD changer, and alloy wheels.
During its development, Ford used the 1986 Honda Accord and in the later stages the 1990 Nissan Primera as the class benchmarks that the CDW27 had to beat.
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Common 1999 Ford Contour problems
The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system.
- Transmission Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have transmission problems, including the car shifting rough and jerking forward into second gear, and sometimes will shift rough into 3rd gear sometimes.
- Electrical System Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have electrical system problems, including the speedometer moving at a standstill, foot fully pressed on the brake pedal, and the car idling weird in park.
- Power Loss: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have power loss problems, where the engine is unstable and stalls, and the battery does not charge properly.
- Starting Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have starting problems, where the engine starts, but won't start back again after turning it off.
- Fuel System Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have fuel system problems, including no power to the fuel pump.
- Interior Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have interior problems, including the dashboard peeling away from the windshield.
- Exterior Lighting Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have exterior lighting problems, including headlights not working properly.
- Service Brake Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have service brake problems, including the anti-lock brake system malfunctioning.
- Power Train Problems: The 1999 Ford Contour has been reported to have power train problems, including the manual transmission vehicles exhibiting a hard to shift condition in cold weather.
In summary, the 1999 Ford Contour has several common problems related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. These problems can cause the car to stall, jerk, shift rough, lose power, and have starting and fuel system problems. The car's dashboard, headlights, and anti-lock brake system may also malfunction. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
What are common problems on a 1999 Ford Explorer?
Top 1999 Ford Explorer Problems
- Heater Stuck on Hottest Setting Due to Broken Heater Blend Door. ...
- Worn Timing Chain Cassettes May Cause Rattling Noise From Engine. ...
- Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack Causing Coolant Leak. ...
- Rough Idle and Stalling. ...
- Problems With 5-speed Automatic Transmission are Common.
Why did they stop making Ford Contour?
The Focus supplanted both Escort and Contour. Ford wanted the Kansas City plant to make Escapes and chickened out on bringing a new Contour based on the 2001+ Mondeo. The Taurus SE was supposedly to take V6 Contour's place, but it's too big and old.
What is the top speed of the 1999 Ford Contour SVT?
The engine revs freely, accompanied by a throaty growl that pastes a big grin on the driver's face. Watch that rev limiter though, because the Contour SVT never feels like it's ready to give up as you rip through the gears on your way to a top speed of 143 mph.
What engine is in a Ford Contour?
Ford SVT Contour
It was powered by an upgraded version of the 2.5 L V6, producing 195 hp (200 hp from 1999).
What are common problems on a 1999 Ford Explorer?
Top 1999 Ford Explorer Problems
- Heater Stuck on Hottest Setting Due to Broken Heater Blend Door. ...
- Worn Timing Chain Cassettes May Cause Rattling Noise From Engine. ...
- Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack Causing Coolant Leak. ...
- Rough Idle and Stalling. ...
- Problems With 5-speed Automatic Transmission are Common.
Why did they stop making Ford Contour?
The Focus supplanted both Escort and Contour. Ford wanted the Kansas City plant to make Escapes and chickened out on bringing a new Contour based on the 2001+ Mondeo. The Taurus SE was supposedly to take V6 Contour's place, but it's too big and old.
What is the top speed of the 1999 Ford Contour SVT?
The engine revs freely, accompanied by a throaty growl that pastes a big grin on the driver's face. Watch that rev limiter though, because the Contour SVT never feels like it's ready to give up as you rip through the gears on your way to a top speed of 143 mph.
What engine is in a Ford Contour?
Ford SVT Contour
It was powered by an upgraded version of the 2.5 L V6, producing 195 hp (200 hp from 1999).
1999 Ford Contour car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Contour problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Ford Contour vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Ford Contour
The NHTSA has received 459 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Ford Contour. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Ford Contour vehicles.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 1FAFP6538XK
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The dash is curling up
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-14
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR FRAME, SUSPENSION RUSTED COMPLETELY INTO AN WENT OUT OF CONTROL AND THREW ME INTO DITCH. THIS IS COMPLETELY NOT ACCEPTABLE. I HAVE 1960'S CARS %100 BETTER THAN THIS . I KNOW THIS IS A 1999 BUT THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE. CAN ANYTHING BE DONE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-30
- VIN: 1FAFP6536XK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE BRAKE LINES UNDER THE CAR HAVE RUSTED TO THE POINT OF BREAKING APART. THE VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 100K MILES AND WAS NOT SUBJECT TO ANY EXTREME CONDITIONS. THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKS OUT OF THE UNDERCARRIAGE ALMOST AS QUICKLY AS IT IS POURED IN AND HAS LEFT THE CAR UNDRIVEABLE WITHOUT EXPENSIVE REPAIRS.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-29
- VIN: 1FAFP66L3XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO WOBBLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-14
- VIN: 1FAFP6638XK
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FUEL TANK STRAP IS COMPLETELY CORRODED AWAY, AND THE FUEL TANK IS READY TO FALL OFF. THE PROTECTIVE COATING IS DEFECTIVE AND HAS COMPLETELY FALLEN OFF, CAUSING THE FUEL STRAP TO BE EATEN AWAY BY RUST AND CORROSION. THE FUEL TANK IS GOING TO FALL OFF EVENTUALLY. THE FUEL FILLER NECK AND EMISSION FITTINGS AT THE TANK, ARE CORRODING BADLY TOO. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-09
- VIN: 1FAFP66L3XK
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUEL PUMP FAILED FREQUENTLY WHILE DRIVING, USUALLY UPHILL. CAR WOULD STALL AND SOMETIMES RESTART, CREATING A HAZARD WHEN ON THE FREEWAY. EVENTUALLY THE FUEL PUMP FAILED COMPLETELY. MY MECHANIC REPLACED IT, HAVING TO RETROFIT THE GAS TANK IN ORDER FOR THE PUMP TO BE INSTALLED, REMOVING CERTAIN FITTINGS. THE FILLER GROMMET WAS DEFECTIVE, AND AFTER THE FUEL PUMP WAS FIXED AND REFUELING WAS TAKING PLACE, GASOLINE POURED OUT OF THE TANK AND THE CAR HAD TO BE RETURNED TO THE MECHANIC. THE REPLACEMENT FUEL PUMP FAILED ABOUT 10 MONTHS LATER, IN SEPT. 2011. AT THAT TIME, THE CAR HAD BEEN WORKING FINE THE NIGHT BEFORE AND WOULDN'T START IN THE MORNING. FORD WILL ONLY GUARANTEE THE ORIGINAL REPLACEMENT, SO IF THE REPLACEMENT HAD FAILED AFTER MORE THAN TWO MONTHS, FORD WOULDN'T HAVE REPLACED THE PART. THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW MOTOR HAS BROKEN THREE TIMES. I HAVE ALSO HAD TROUBLE WITH THE AIR INTAKE SYSTEM, WHICH CAUSES A WHINE WHENEVER THE CAR IS STARTED COLD. THIS IS IRRITATING, BUT DOESN'T SEEM TO CAUSE ANY DIFFICULTY WITH THE OPERATION OF THE CAR. THE DASHBOARD WAS RECALLED, A CHEAP PLASTIC PIECE PLACED OVER THE VENTS, WHICH RUINED THE LOOK OF THE DASHBOARD. I PERSUADED THE DEALER TO REPLACE THE DASHBOARD AS ORIGINALLY PROMISED IN THE RECALL NOTICE. THE REPLACEMENT HAS NOW ALSO DEVELOPED A PROBLEM WITH THE VENT BEING SEPARATED FROM THE DASH. THERE ARE ALSO VAGUE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS, INCLUDING SURGING AND DIMMING OF LIGHTS. CAN'T USE THE RADIO FOR FEAR OF STALLING THE CAR, OR USE THE HEATING SYSTEM ALONG WITH THE REAR DEFROST SIMULTANEOUSLY. *TR
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-09
- VIN: 1FAFP65Z0XK
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD WINDSHIELD AIR/DEFROSTING VENT COVER BELOW THE WINDSHIELD POPPED OFF AND THE DASHBOARD PADDING HAS PEALED UP BLOCKING WINDSHIELD/FORWARD VISIBILITY. THIS HAS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO FAIL THE VIRGINIA SAFETY INSPECTION. ALL REMEDIES WE HAVE TRIED HAVE ONLY SEEM TO PROVIDE TEMPORARY RELIEF. I HAVE PICTURES. I HAVE TALKED TO SEVERAL OTHER CONTOUR OWNERS WHO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS AND I HAVE SEEN CONTOURS IN PARKING LOTS WITH SIMILAR CONDITIONS. ADDITIONALLY, I WAS TOLD THIS WAS IDENTIFIED IN A PAST SAFETY RECALL. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD RESULTING FROM DEFECTIVE MATERIALS AND POOR DESIGN. *JS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-14
- VIN: 1FAFP6634XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 15 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SWAY FROM SIDE TO SIDE AND EXHIBITED A LOUD, ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR SUB-FRAME WAS COMPLETELY CORRODED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 107,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-12
- VIN: 1FAFP6637XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. THE CONTACT STATED THE ENTIRE TOP OF THE DASHBOARD CURLED UPWARD. THE DAMAGED DASHBOARD CAUSED PROBLEMS WITH THE DEFROST AND AIR CONDITIONER, BECAUSE THE WINDSHIELD WOULD NOT DEFROST. THE CONTACT PLANS TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IT WAS HARD TO SEE OUT OF THE WINDOW WHENEVER IT RAINED OR THE WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE CHILLY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN, BUT THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-08
- VIN: 1FAFP6639KK
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. WHILE THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THAT THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WERE RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. UPDATED 06/16/11*LJ UPDATED 07/11/11
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-07
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1999 FORD CONTOUR, FUEL CONSTANTLY CUTTING OFF AND NOT RESTARTING. SHOWS GAS BUT ACTS LIKE NO GAS IN CAR. SAID TO BE FUEL PUMP PROBLEM. NO ONE CAN FIND ISSUE. I HAVE BABIES AND HAD BEEN STUCK ON FREEWAY FOR OVER TWO HOURS WHEN SOMEONE HAD TO COME AND GET US AND TOW VEHICLE HOME. STILL NOT WORKING. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-07
- VIN: 1FAFP66L5XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1999 FORD CONTOUR SPORT V6. MY MOTOR/TRANMISSION MOUNTS KEEP FAILING A HAVE REPLACED NUMEROUS TIMES. CAUSING MANY ENGINE ISSUES. HAVE TAKEN SEVERAL MECHANICS, EVEN DEALERSHIP. BEEN TOLD THIS IS A MANUFACTURING FAULT. WHY HAS NHTSA NOT MADE A RECALL. TO MAKE THE COMPANY FIX THEIR MISTAKE OR AT LEAST A WAY TO KEEP MOUNTS FROM FAILING. ALL I KEEP GETTING IS "THATS JUST HOW ITS MADE". WHEN COPARING THE FROD REPLACEMENT PART TO THOSE SOLD AT MY LOCAL AUTO PARTS STORE ITS THE SAME THING. SO AS FAR AS I CAN TELL THERE IS NO IMPROVEMENT MADE TO PARTS. HAD MY TRANS MISSION REPLACED-THE TRANSMISSION LEAKED-THEY NOTED THAT THE LEAK WAS DO TO FAILED MOUNTS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-03
- VIN: 1FAFP6539XK
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. THE CONTACT WAS REFUELING THE VEHICLE WHEN HE NOTICED LARGE AMOUNTS OF FUEL SPILLING FROM THE VEHICLE AND ONTO THE GROUND ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED HIM THAT THE FUEL TANK FILLER PIPE GROMMET WAS LEAKING. THE CONTACT REFERENCED THE RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 00V350000 (FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY) BUT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO SECURE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED AT HIS EXPENSE BUT WAS AWAITING THE REQUIRED PARTS NEEDED FOR REPAIRS, WHICH WERE ON BACKORDER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,556.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-15
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DASH CURLING BACK. STRAP FOR FUEL TANK RUSTED, GOING TO BREAK, RUST ON BRAKE LINE, RUST UNDER BOTH BACK DOORS AND SPREADING TO UNDERNEATH CAR, RADIO SPEAKERS OUT, CAR HESITATES WHILE ACCELERATING, TRUNK LEAKS DEFROSTER NOT WORKING PROPERLY BECAUSE OF DASH. WAS NOT AWARE OF A RECALL FOR DASH. SHOULD BE RECALL FOR CORROSION PROBLEM AS IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I HAVE NO OTHER MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION SO I TAKE A HUGE CHANCE EVERYTIME I DRIVE WHICH IS 3 OR 4 TIMES A WEEK TO WORK.. FUEL PUMP HAD TO BE REPLACED. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON FOR NO REASON. PIECE OF JUNK AND I CAN'T AFFORD TO BUY ANOTHER CAR. FORD SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES. THEY SHOULD HAVE TO FIX THESE CARS OR REPLACE THEM. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THE STRAP FOR FUEL TANK IS GOING TO BREAK. THE CAR ONLY HAS 61,000 MILES ON IT. WHAT A JOKE! *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-10
- VIN: 1FAFP6634XK
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE NOTICED THAT ON EVERY 1999 FORD CONTOUR THE HEADLIGHT COVERS TURN YELLOW AND START TO CRACK. I HAVE CHECKED A LOT OF PLACES AND LOOK AT THE LIGHTS AND EVERYONE I HAVE SEEN ARE THE SAME. I CAN'T DRIVE WITH MY LIGHTS ON LOW BEAM AT ALL. I KEEP THEM ON HIGH BEAM SO THAT I CAN SEE. LOW BEAM LOOKS AS IF THEY AREN'T ON. *TR
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALL NOTICES, BUT I NEED TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY. I HAVE A 1999 FORD CONTOUR, PURCHASED NEW, ONE OWNER, WHERE THE DASH IS CURLING BACK, THE HEADLAMPS COLLECT MOISTURE, THE TAIL LAMP HAS BEEN REPLACED REPEATEDLY, AND NOW THE TORQUE CONVERTER IS SHOWING UP ON A READ-OUT. I HAVE ASKED OVER THE YEARS ABOUT THE PROBLEMS, AND I'VE ALWAYS BEEN TOLD THEY ARE NOT MANUFACTURE ISSUES, BUT CURRENT READINGS SUGGEST OTHERWISE. I REALLY NEED TO GET THESE ITEMS CORRECTED IF THERE HAVE BEEN RECALLS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-18
- VIN: 1FAFP6536XK
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATE SPEEDS OF 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT DRIVER INTENT. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL UNTIL THE VEHICLE COASTED TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THERE WAS A RECALL ON HIS YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL (NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 99V194000: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED WITH THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 122,000. UPDATED 10/27/10. *LJ
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-15
- VIN: 2FMZA5242XB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 1999 FORD WINDSTAR AND IT HAS ABOUT 155,000 MILES ON IT. MY WIFE WAS COMING HOME WITH FIVE OF MY SIX KIDS AND TURNED OFF OF THE 4-LANE HIGHWAY ONTO OUR EXIT FOR OUR HOUSE AND THE REAR AXLE BROKE..IF SHE HAD STAYED ON THE 4-LANE AT 65 M.P.H. WE COULD'VE HAD MULTIPLE INJURIES OR EVEN DEATHS !! I HAVE REVIEWED ALL KINDS OF COMPLAINTS ON THE SAME PROBLEM...WHY HAVEN'T THERE BEEN ANY RECALLS. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-18
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF ANY RECALLS. I HAVE HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE REPLACED STARTER AND BRAKES SEVERAL TIMES FEELS LIKE SUSPENSION IS FALLING APART AND NEVER NOTIFIED I HAVE SMALL AND OLDER CHILDREN SHAMEFUL. THESE EVENTS STARTING TAKING PLACE WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 1999 ARM CONTROL 3 TIMES REPLACED I WAS LIED TO BY FORD AND SAID I MUST OF HIT A BUMP BUMP MY BUMP 3 TIMES ALMOST DEAD. *TR
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 1FAFP6533XK
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: LETTER ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT RE CONCERNS ABOUT THE DEFECTIVE WARPING DASH ON VARIOUS FORD PRODUCTS SUCH AS HIS 1999 FORD CONTOUR. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED FORD ISSUED A RECALL IN 2001 TO REPLACE THE DASH BECAUSE OF EXCESSIVE WARPING. APPARENTLY, FORD NEVER FIXED THE MANUFACTURING FLAW BECAUSE THE REPLACEMENT DASH STARTED TO WARP SOON AFTERWARDS. THE CONSUMER STATED IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE THE DASH WARPED UPWARDS, IMPACTING THE VISIBILITY OF THE DRIVER. THE WARPING ALSO IMPACTED THE OPERATION OF THE DEFROSTER, SO THE FRONT WINDOW WAS NOT BEING DEFROSTED WHICH CAUSED VISIBILITY ISSUES. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FAFP6534XK
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. WHILE ADDING FUEL TO THE FUEL TANK, GASOLINE BEGAN LEAKING. A TECHNICIAN CONCLUDED THAT THE FUEL TANK SEAL CAUSED THE EXHAUST SYSTEM HOSE TO MELT. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED . THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 150,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-05
- VIN: 1FAFP66L9XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD CONTOUR. APPROXIMATELY SIX MONTHS AGO, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE DASHBOARD WAS FALLING APART IN HER VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. SHE FIRST NOTICED THE ISSUE WHEN THE DEFROST VENT WAS BEGINNING TO PUSH OUTWARD DUE TO THE BENDING OF THE DASHBOARD. WHEN THE GLOVE BOX IS OPENED, IT FALLS TO THE FLOOR BECAUSE THE ENTIRE DASHBOARD HAS SHIFTED. THERE WAS NO IMPACT TO THE OUTSIDE OR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,090.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-21
- VIN: 1FAFP66L9XK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKE FAILURE ON 99 FORD CONTOUR SE CONTACTED DUTRO FORD ZANESVILE OHIO SAID THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THIS CAR. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-15
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HAPPENED AROUND OCT 15, 2008 AT NIGHT, BETWEEN MARSHALL AND OLIVET MI. FAILURE WAS WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE, CAUSING WIPERS TO BLOW OFF THE VEHICLE. PART IS HARD TO FIND, LOOKING TO GET IT FIXED FOR SAFETY OBVIOUSLY. WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE WELL, SINCE NEXT EXIT WAS STILL MILES AWAY. NO EASY WAY TO FIX THIS IN AN EMERGENCY, LIKE THIS. THIS TYPE OF LINKAGE IS UNSAFE, AND I BELIEVE ANY VEHICLES WITH IT SHOULD BE RECALLED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-23
- VIN: 1FAFP6632XK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DASHBOARD IS CURLING UP STARTED ON THE RIGHT SIDE. DEAL PUT SOME TYPE OF GLUE ON IT BUT ITS NOT STAYING DOWN. NOW ALMOST THE WHOLE DASHBOARD IS CURLING UP. I READ THERE WAS A RECALL. WHY WERE WE NOT NOTIFIED? NOT HAPPY WITH FORD *TR
1999 Ford Contour recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1999 Ford Contour.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: 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."
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES. VEHICLES THAT HAVE UNITS WITH IGNITION KEYS REMOVABLE IN GEAR POSITIONS OTHER THAN PARK, WILL HAVE THE STEERING COLUMN REPLACED.
Negative 1999 Ford Contour car reviews
Positive 1999 Ford Contour car reviews
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I bought this car new in 2000. It's a Sport SE V6 with an automatic transmission and has 95,000 miles on it. The motor and transmission are still going strong. The dash pad and rear brake proportioning valve were replaced under recall, and the new pad is of better quality. The solenoid idle valve was also replaced, and the air conditioning compressor bearing seal had a very slow leak, which was fixed under extended warranty by replacing the compressor. The sunroof motor was intermittent, but it has been replaced. The oil pan gasket and front brake pads were also replaced, and I installed a new battery. Despite these issues, this car is still a lot of fun to drive. I flush the cooling system every two years and change the oil regularly. It has endured 10 Minnesota winters and has almost no rust. It still has the original exhaust!
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I've read a lot of reviews about Contours and it seems like people either love them or hate them. However, I have had a great experience with mine and I absolutely love it. I haven't had any problems to complain about, and even when the dashboard warped, the shop took care of it and solved the problem. It's a fantastic performer, very sporty, and has great gas mileage, all for a super price. I've driven over 60k miles in 4 years and nothing out of the ordinary has gone wrong. It's a shame they stopped making them, as I find the Focus to be inadequate as a replacement.
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You've found a great deal on a lovely car!
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I'm glad to hear that you've enjoyed your car overall. It sounds like the Duratec V6 engine has been outstanding for you, providing both good power and mileage (25 city/30 hwy). Although some things are starting to break now, such as the ignition lock and some oil leakage, it's impressive that you've driven it long and hard. It's a shame that Ford has stopped selling these cars in the US, but it's good to know that they're still available in Europe as the Mondeo. Thank you for sharing your experience with me!
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I purchased this car used with 14,000 miles on it. Overall, I enjoyed driving it, but unfortunately, I had to invest a significant amount of money into new springs and struts for both the front (70,000 miles) and rear (105,000 miles). This was a factory issue, as the springs were made too short, which is a common problem. However, Ford refused to cover the cost of the repairs on my car, as not enough people reported this issue from the factory where mine was built. Additionally, I had to pay a lot to replace a seal on the gas tank (70,000 miles), which was another recall on cars from a different factory, but not mine. Recently, I experienced a transmission leak and oil leak. Needless to say, I was disappointed with Ford's service. I am unsure if I will purchase another Ford in the future.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Ford Contour problems:
1999 Ford Contour Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 1999 Ford Contour? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 Ford Contour.
SVT Contour-Good Daily Driver? | SVTPerformance.com
May 10, 2008 ... The other issue is oil starvation. Long sweeping high speed/rpm right-hand turns will cause oil starvation which can lead to spun bearings. The ...
Buying a Contour SVT... anything to look out for? Good websites for ...
Aug 26, 2013 ... Alternator, water pump, and fuel pump issues are fairly common as well. Like B3NN3TT said, its a sharp learning curve with this car. IMO, its ...
Q&A: 1999 Ford Contour SE A/C Compressor - Ford Contour Sport ...
Jul 2, 2016 ... That is a common problem on the contour I have seen and repaired lots of times for that concern. As far as the compressor clutch not ...
1999 brake light and turn signal problem | Ford Contour Enthusiasts ...
I am currently having a problem with my 99 contour v6 AT ... Welcome to the Contour Enthusiasts Group, the best resource for the Ford Contour ... fuses common to ...
Other years of Ford Contour
Are you having problems with your 1999 Ford Contour?
Robb Romaguera 2024-10-24
You've got yourself an average car that was in good condition when you got it. Although there were some minor problems that needed fixing, all repairs were affordable. Unfortunately, the paint scratches very easily and there are some minor engine problems. The interior can be a little challenging when things start to pop up, such as the dash panel pad. However, it's a nice car in some ways and saves gas a lot more than older cars you've driven. Just remember not to speed and you'll enjoy reliable performance.
Guy Sawayn 2024-09-18
I really enjoy driving this car, especially on the Autostadas here in Europe. However, I have had some issues with reliability. Unfortunately, the rear taillight had water in it when we purchased the car, which had to be replaced. Additionally, the starter has gone out twice in the past 10 months. The first time it was just the starter, but the second time it was the starter, flywheel, and cables to the starter. The dash is also peeling up, but unfortunately, dealerships here in Europe will not work on my car because it is American Specs. As a result, I have decided that this will be my last Ford, even though I have owned 2 other Ford trucks in the past. If you are planning to take an American made vehicle overseas, I would advise against it as it can be more trouble than it is worth.
Jarvis Lindgren 2024-09-14
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with this car I bought used. It had 400 miles on it, but unfortunately, I've had to replace two engines and spend $6,000 on repairs. After doing some research online and consulting with my mechanic, it seems that this car had some serious issues that should have been recalled. Despite all of this, I'm still driving it and hoping to get my money's worth out of it. Thanks for listening!
Columbus Renner 2024-08-03
The V6 power is definitely the standout feature of this car. However, it seems to have some issues with alternators, squeaky doors, a faulty fan/ac switch, and poor night vision with headlights. Overall, it seems like a typical Ford car. Personally, I wouldn't purchase another Ford car, but I might consider a truck. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Faustino Bayer 2024-04-27
The SE Sport V6 with 5-speed transmission is a great value for its price. Although, I have had some trouble with the interior features. The dashboard has peeled and been replaced twice, and there is a constant issue with wind noise and rattling in the dashboard. The original Firestone Firehawk tires were not very good on anything other than dry pavement, but after replacing them with Bridgestone Potenza's at 30k, the control and ride significantly improved. Overall, I have enjoyed driving this car, but I think next time I will invest in a higher class car with better fit and finish. Additionally, the cup holders could use some improvement.