Steve Cates (71.153.40.50) - Mon May 4 11:52:17 2009

For the last few weeks I have been driving my car more than usual, on rough roads also. Started rough idle in low, not detectable by me in higher gears. Check engine light came on yesterday. No unusual smoke or odors, oil does need to be changed though (been at least a year). Is this just a minor tune-up type problem, or does it sound worse?

Reply #1 Jim Rahrig (151.132.106.199) - Mon May 11 11:51:09 2009

Probably a minor problem. First thing to start with would be the Check engine light. Get the code for that & perform a SEARCH on Google or at an enthusiast site such as CONTOUR.ORG. Very useful resource...

I suspect the problem is an air/vacuum leak and the check engine light will likely indicate a lean condition. There are a few seldom suspected sources of vac leaks on the Contour.

One is the accordian tube at the intake manifold. Cracks form along the pleats.

Second is the vac tube running from the front valve cover to the accordian tube. The heat under the plastic IMRC cover rots the rubber connections & it will need replacement. Replaced mine & fuel economy soared!

Another is the hard lines on the top of the intake manifold and the plastic elbows that turn down into the manifold. Gentle pressure with a flat screwdriver on the manifold collar adjacent the elbows will release the fitting. Don't force it. Inspect both the elbow & hard line for cracks.

Yet another is a small tube running from the PCV valve to the intake manifold. This is located under the manifold immediately behind the throttle body. Change the PCV valve while you're at it. Costs little & may solve the problem. Also inspect the lines to/from the PCV valve.

Reply #2 Jeff Taylor (99.30.146.67) - Sun Sep 13 10:31:24 2009

I have a 2000 ford contour 2 litter 4 cylinder engine. It was running rough coming home from work. Every time I put my foot on the gas less power I had. Had to feather the gas pedal it would only go 50 miles an hour no faster. Got it home and now it will not start at all. Changed spark plugs and spark plug wires. Oil was fine but changed that anyways. Checking belts while the car is being cranked over belts are turning fine. Decided to check timing belt and timing belt is not turning. Teeth and belt seem fine and belt is not loose. Any suggestions on what could be the problem.

Reply #3 Cheri (64.12.116.198) - Mon Oct 5 19:18:37 2009

I have a 1996 Ford Contour Gl, recently had the timing chain pulley replaced, car ran very rough when idling, then had spark plugs & wires replaced and fuel filter, no help, car quit running yesterday, will start but will not run, any ideas?

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