In September of 2006 I purchased a 1997 contour with a 4 cylinder, automatic. In 2500 miles I replaced the right axel shaft, right ball joint, left front wheel hub, plugs, air filter, oil filter, both wipers and the big one.... the flex plate which of course required the removal of the transmission. I have had my fill of the VERY poor quality of this car. I am very happy to announce that it is SOLD. And with all the work that I did I only lost about $500.00. This is the first Ford that I have ever owned and now that it is gone I can also assure you that it is the last one too. I have had 2 happy days with this car, the day I bought it and the day I SOLD it. I hope your luck is better than mine with the little Kansas City built POS.