1998 FORD CONTOUR

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Harsh 2-3 or 3-4 shifts, flare on upshift, Slipping in third or fourth gear under load, No reverse or delayed engagement, Burnt transmission fluid smell

Fix: The CD4E is a notorious weak link—servo bore wear and forward clutch failure are endemic. Rebuilds rarely last; most shops recommend replacement with a remanufactured unit. 8-12 hours labor for R&R, plus fluid and cooler flush.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800

Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust on cold start, Coolant loss with no visible leaks, Overheating or erratic temperature gauge, Milky oil or coolant in overflow tank

Fix: The Duratec V6 blows head gaskets between cylinders or into coolant passages. Both heads must come off; warpage is common so resurfacing is mandatory. Timing covers, water pump, and all coolant hoses should be done while apart. 14-18 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $2,800-4,200

Symptoms: Clunking or popping from front suspension over bumps, Vehicle sits lower on one side, Tire rubbing on fender liner, Visible crack or broken coil (often bottom coil)

Fix: Recall 00V246 addressed this but many weren't fixed. Springs corrode and snap, usually at the bottom coil. When one breaks, replace both fronts—the other is next. Requires spring compressor; 3-4 hours labor for the pair. Alignment mandatory after.

Estimated cost: $450-750

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission fluid dripping near radiator or subframe, Low fluid level on dipstick, Pink or red fluid pooling under car, Transmission slipping after leak develops

Fix: Steel cooler lines rust through where they pass the subframe or connect to the radiator. Often discovered too late—low fluid kills the already-weak CD4E. Replace both lines and flush the cooler; 2-3 hours labor. Do this proactively if you see surface rust.

Estimated cost: $350-600

Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Violent vibration at idle or acceleration, Serpentine belt walking off or shredding, Visible wobble of crank pulley, Squealing or chirping from accessory belt area

Fix: The rubber isolator in the balancer degrades and the outer ring separates or wobbles. If it comes apart fully, the crank sensor loses signal and the engine dies. Replacement requires special puller and installer; 2-3 hours labor. Inspect closely at every belt service.

Estimated cost: $400-650

Symptoms: Clunking from rear of car over bumps, Fuel tank hanging lower than normal, Rust staining visible on tank straps, Rattle when tank is less than half full

Fix: Recall 00V177 covered this for corrosion in salt-belt states. Straps rust and break, dropping the tank onto the exhaust or road. Replacement is straightforward—drop the tank, swap straps, reinstall. 2-3 hours labor if the fasteners cooperate.

Estimated cost: $250-450

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Erratic or surging idle (500-1200 RPM hunting), Stalling at stop signs or when cold, Check engine light with P0122 or P0505 codes, Hesitation on initial throttle tip-in

Fix: TPS and IAC valves fail from carbon buildup and wear. TPS is 30 minutes; IAC is 45 minutes with throttle body removal for proper cleaning. Often both are replaced together since labor overlaps. Throttle body gasket needed.

Estimated cost: $300-550