I just had that problem fixed on my 1999 SE Contour. The Ford dealership stated it usually happens on 1996-1998 Contours! Great! But it is a gasket either on the tranny or air intake. I am trying to locate my paperwork to tell you the specifics. I will e-mail you again this week if I find it and will tell you the specific parts/item. Mine just happened to be covered by warranty . Andy
