The ride may not be smoother, but less shudder on a bump if your strut has worn out. Oem is best if you can get them at a good deal (Bill Jenkins Ford, Steve Tousley Ford). I have used Monroe Sensatrac struts on a Dodge with good results but you will need to replace both rear struts. You might need sway bar links or have a broken spring or bad mount. The easiest way to soften the ride is reduce tire pressure. If you have 35 psi, that's too hard, try 32 all around. Some tires naturally ride hard. The Contour is a "sporty" ride by nature, but not back hurting (at least not with the stock wheels.) [If you have 17-20 inch rims those will tend to ride hard
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