I am considering purchasing a '99 Contour from a private owner with about 135,00 miles on it. Are there any specific problems I should look for when I road test? Are there any Contour-specific problems I can count on draining my bank account? I'd appreciate any advice...don't wanna get stuck with another piece of crap.

 

Hope I'm not too late. Contours are pretty notorious for electrical problems. Check under the hood for wires that have cracked insulation or pieces missing from the insulation...NOT GOOD! Also, depending on what part of the country the car is from, the starters are finicky in cold humid weather. And, as with many used cars, the bushing are usually gone.

 

95-97's were in the recall by Ford for the engine wiring harness problems. The insulation would crack and brake off causing shorts everywhere. The 98's occasionally had issues still but were not part of the recall.