FaultScore

FaultScore report

1999 Ford Contour problems

Owners have filed 616 complaints about the 1999 Ford Contour with NHTSA between 1998 and 2023. The largest single group is the body & structure. Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 7 worst.

C

FaultScore 54/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Ford Contour.

How this is worked out

The numbers

616

Complaints

39

Crashes reported

19

Fires reported

40

Injuries reported

60,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

18%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 47 vs 50 Severity 82 vs 50 Early failure 30 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 47
Against the median year of the Ford Contour. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 82
15.9% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 30
18% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 1999 compares with every other Ford Contour

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 1999 Ford Contour

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Body & Structure 94 15.3%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 50,000 mi

1 crashes, 10 fires · median 60,000 mi

1 crashes, 2 fires · median 60,000 mi

Brakes 50 8.1%

4 crashes, 0 fires · median 79,549 mi

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 58,322 mi

0 crashes, 3 fires · median 65,000 mi

Suspension 34 5.5%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 71,892 mi

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 68,158 mi

Airbags 29 4.7%

17 crashes, 2 fires · median 55,000 mi

Tires 27 4.4%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 80,499 mi

Median failure at 66,500 miles

Seat Belts 25 4.1%

5 crashes, 0 fires · median 60,000 mi

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 57,500 mi

Lights 18 2.9%

Median failure at 53,500 miles

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 52,888 mi

Steering 13 2.1%

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 37,777 mi

Doors, Latches & Locks 5 0.8%

Median failure at 35,000 miles

Seats 2 0.3%
Wheels 2 0.3%

Median failure at 65,000 miles

Stability & Traction Control 1 0.2%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 37,777 mi

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

Gasoline 22 20.0%
Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip 15 13.6%
Frontal 15 13.6%
Engine 13 11.8%
Automatic Transmission 13 11.8%
Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System 11 10.0%
Front 11 10.0%
Rotor 10 9.1%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 1 0.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 7 3.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 9 4.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 51 25.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 69 34.2%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 39 19.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 19 9.4%
150,000+ miles 7 3.5%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Dec 1998 peak 19 May 2023

NHTSA investigations into the 1999 Ford Contour

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

DP06004 Opened 23 Oct 2006 Closed 10 Apr 2007 STRUCTURE

INSTRUMENT PANEL COVER WARPAGE

THE AGENCY HAS DENIED A PETITION REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF INSTRUMENT PANEL WARPAGE FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES. THE NOTICE OF DENIAL WAS PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER, VOLUME 72, NUMBER 67, ON MONDAY, APRIL 9, 2007, PAGES 17605 AND 17606.SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH FOR DETAILS.

EA01001 Opened 5 Jan 2001 Closed 31 Jul 2001 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BLOWER SWITCH/RESISTOR OR WIRING HARNESS

Recalls on the 1999 Ford Contour

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

08E033000

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.

Risk: 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.

06E022000

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.

Risk: 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.

00V350000

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.

Risk: IF THE GROMMET IS DAMAGED, FUEL COULD LEAK. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

00V075000

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.

Risk: 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.

99V060000

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."

Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2000285 35 units in Canada

Fuel System

On certain vehicles, a fuel tank filler pipe grommet 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. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel tank filler pipe grommet.

Recall 2000077 43,458 units in Canada

Brakes

On certain vehicles, the pressure conscious reducing valve (PCRV) in each of the rear brakes may be subject to malfunction due to corrosion when operated in areas of high road salt use. If both PCRVs malfunction, vehicle handling may be adversely affected during braking as a result of the rear wheels locking, which could potentially result in a vehicle crash. Correction: Dealers will install improved PCRVs in the rear brake system.

Recall 1999049 340 units in Canada

Other

Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 114 - Locking System. It may be possible to rotate the ignition key to the "LOCK" position and remove the key without the shift lever and transmission being in "PARK". Correction: Vehicles will be inspected and if the ignition key can be removed in gear positions other than "PARK", the steering column will be replaced.

Recall 1998243 31,170 units in Canada

Visual System

Certain vehicles do not comply with CMVSS 205 - glazing materials. The windshields on were produced without the "AS1" mark as required by American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z26.1. These windshields fully meet all of the requirements of Standard 205. Correction: Since the absence of the AS1 mark is highly unlikely to produce any risk of injury, no corrective action will be taken.

Recall 1998234 1,236 units in Canada

Emissions

Certain vehicles may not comply with CMVSS 1105 - evaporative emissions. The rear fuel lines may allow fuel to seep and evaporate at the metal line to nylon tube joint at the rear of the vehicle near the fuel filter. This may cause evaporative emissions in excess of the standard. Correction: Vehicle will be inspected for signs of fuel escaping a joint between a nylon tube and a metal fuel line. If wetness or fuel odor are detected a reinforcement kit will be installed.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

STEERING

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

SUSPENSION

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

SUSPENSION:REAR

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Dallas, TX

VISIBILITY/WIPER

The dash is curling up

NHTSA complaint #11520293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 120,000 miles West Chester, OH

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #10954971 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 96,000 miles Hoffman Estates, IL

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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.

NHTSA complaint #10851796 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 110,000 miles Buckner, IL

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #10748430 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Milford, CT

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10559782 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Milford, CT

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

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.

NHTSA complaint #10559782 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 52,238 miles LOS Angeles, CA

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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.

NHTSA complaint #10510188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 84,919 miles Woodbridge, VA

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

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.

NHTSA complaint #10464182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 84,919 miles Woodbridge, VA

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

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.

NHTSA complaint #10464182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 84,919 miles Woodbridge, VA

STRUCTURE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10464182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 107,000 miles Mount Airy, MD

STRUCTURE:BODY

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.

NHTSA complaint #10430469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Brownsville, TN

STRUCTURE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10416925 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 180,000 miles Lorain, OH

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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

NHTSA complaint #10399853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Munford, TN

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10395413 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Liberty, MO

STRUCTURE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10395278 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 73,556 miles Kailua, HI

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

NHTSA complaint #10386487 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dalzell, SC

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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!

NHTSA complaint #10379607 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dalzell, SC

STRUCTURE

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!

NHTSA complaint #10379607 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Jackson, MS

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

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.

NHTSA complaint #10354958 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Forney, TX

POWER TRAIN

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.

NHTSA complaint #10347925 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Forney, TX

EQUIPMENT

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.

NHTSA complaint #10347925 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 122,000 miles Dayton, OH

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

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.

NHTSA complaint #10339319 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,777 miles ANN Arbor, MI Crash 3 injured

STEERING

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.

NHTSA complaint #10287331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.