1998 Ford Contour Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.01/5 Average
99 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A redesigned face gives this Ford more character, but the new taillight treatment is almost identical to the Contour's sibling, the Mercury Mystique. New alloy wheels and a slightly more commodious rear seat debut. Midyear changes included a model consolidation, the addition of depowered airbags, as well as improved handling and new wheels for the SVT.

Pros:
  • Energetic performance in the spirit of more expensive German sedans.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 99.00
  • Ford Contour! Great CAR - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    Ive really enjoyed owning this car and I would highly recommend a Contour to anyone looking for a great car. It runs 24/7 and never looks back. Ive had very minor repair issues after 64,000. I couldnt be happier.

  • Im thinkin it rocks! - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    Im 17 and for me to be impressed says a lot. The 5-speed V-6 is sweet and I have yet to lose a light-to-light. It handles really well for a sedan and I can fit my guitar stuff and my skis in no problem plus a few friends. If you dont like it, buy a Cadillac, but for the money this is where its at.

  • basic contour - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    door locks terrible, all stick or dont open correctly driver lock defective after 50k. replaced driver door open cable 2x after 60k. seat sliders stiff, hard to move forward & back.

  • Good car but too many minor troubles... - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    I think this car is nice to drive. Good handling, acceleration and even abraking system. However, the reliability of this car is far from perfect. Normally, cars from Ford is in the same situation.

  • Contour Owner - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    I just recently got the contour and so far i love the performance with it. The check engine light is on but not sure why. It does great on the highway and is very comfy!

  • Contour (Recallour) - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    Our contour is a gl v6 sport. This car is the king of recalls and is very unreliable. Check engine light is always comming on. Transmission shifts to abruptly. Sunroof most of the time does not work. Ride is to harsh and too much engine noise. Engine is always making growling sounds especially at low speeds. Duratech does not feel as powerful as its 170 hp rating. Paint scratches easily, flimsy car. Drinks alot of gas. Really glad they dont make this troublesome model anymore, think early 80s american car. If yours runs good you probably have a 4 cylinder or hardly drive.

  • a love-hate relationship - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    I have a 98 SE with the 2.5L six and the sport package. I love driving the car because of its steering response and handling, and Im pretty satisfied with its power (everyone wants a faster 0-60 time, right?). Despite all of this, I cant forget that the tranny burned up at 30k miles. It didnt help matters that the dealers service department misdiagnosed the problem as something else the first time I took it to them. I like my Contour, but Im not sure Ill ever buy another Ford.

  • Fun to drive - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    Fun to drive ... 170hp and great handling. This car does not have a very snappy engine but when in the power band it pulls well. It also loves to be thrown into the corners. (had to replace a wheel bearing once). The exhaust is still original and I just replaced rear rotors and pads after 55 000 miles. The front disks still look Ok. Things I had problems with: Paint on hood crazing (dealer would not fix) wheel bearing (my fault) recalls air flow sensor a/c expansion valve

  • Lots of zip too many recalls - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    Contour Sport with 2.5liter, 175 hp is a poor mans sports car. Lots of zip when getting on the freeway. Gets up to 80 mph before you know it. Hey, Ford!!! Whats with all the recalls????? I lost count at 12, and for really stupid stuff. Air conditioner accumulator rusted through at 45,000 and cost me plenty to cold air flowing again. Wifes car. Its getting traded in later this week for a new Jeep Wrangler.

  • I can drive for miles and miles...... - 1998 Ford Contour
    By -

    I have a 65,000 square mile sales territory in the southwest and have had excellent service from this vehicle. It has no rattles or squeaks. It has never let me down, I change the oil every 3- 4,000 miles and it does not burn any oil. The timing belt ( give me a steel chain please) was replaced at 90,000 miles. The spark plugs have never been replaced. I have been looking for a replacement vehicle but am very reluctant to give up this reliable workhorse.

Ford Contour Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area