Is the Ford Contour Reliable?
1995–2000 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Ford Contour? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Ford Contour Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 3 | 124 | 8 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1999 | 2 | 332 | 25 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1998 | 7 | 615 | 43 | 2 | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 4 | 168 | 12 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1996 | 6 | 484 | 20 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1995 | 5 | 730 | 26 | 10 | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Contour Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Contour scores exactly at the sedan average.
Known Ford Contour Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 2453 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford Contour reliable?+
The Ford Contour scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 6 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 27 recall campaigns and 2453 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Contour is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2000 Contour achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 3 recalls and 124 complaints.
How many miles does a Contour last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Ford Contour owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Contour will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Ford Contour Research
Check a Specific Ford Contour VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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