Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting My engine died at 76k

I have a 96 Ford Contour V-6 and have had routine maintenance when today the car died. My mechanic tells me the engine seized and oil was down only 1/4 quart. I can't believe that an engine would go at such low mileage! Anyone else had this problem?? thank you.

Did it happen in a right hand sweeping turn?

No, not in a right turn. I heard this "clicking" when I pressed on the gas. I was coming to a stop sign, headed straight,when the engine just stopped. I had it towed and the mechanics said it seized and they are looking for a used engine. No oil dripping, no smoke,..it just stopped! I called a Ford dealer who said they have not heard of this!! Any ideas, comments would be greatly appreciated.

oh my god...same exact problem as me

i was at 60,000 miles tho and my car still ran after the clicking noise...im getting it towed tomorrow..if i figure anything out i'll let you know

I would definitely seek second opinion. I can't imagine something can "just seize".

thanks for your posts. the mechanics said they can't believe it either...

I wouldn't consider this a good answer. Imagine the results of an autopsy would read "we can't believe he's dead".

Do you have electric power?
if no:
look for a worn insulation on the wires;
if yes:

Does the engine turn?
if no:
Can they connect the code reader to the computer and see what the codes are? with the key in the ON position they should be able to, and if they are not, than either computer is bad, or there is some other electric problem;
if yes: do you have spark on the plug?

etc... etc... etc...

there must be something definite and clear, like metal shavings in the motor oil before I would start listening anything about new engine.

ROFL @ Alex:

"I wouldn't consider this a good answer. Imagine the results of an autopsy would read "we can't believe he's dead".

John

I relayed the info from the posts to the mechancs and they said it is definitely not electrical. There is something not working in the engine. He tried to start it by hand but it did not start; it is an internal mechanical problem. There is power, to the radio and windows..

Hey my car has slight click to it when i take off but its only one click or maybe 2. is this similar?? It doesnt happen everytime I take off....