Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting Engine caught fire -- what happened?

I knew it was only a matter of time before someone slapped me with what really happened. Man, I feel like the biggest idiot now. Makes my careful attention to every 3K oil changes seem like an utter joke. I guess my experience with previous vehicles led me to believe that if an engine was overheating, I'd feel it once I opened the hood. And bnoon, it wasn't intentional neglience -- just some painful ignorance. I am greatful for your painful to hear feedback. Lordy. I'm just sick as hell now. What will a new engine run? And I'll keep my mouth shut re: the temp gauge, but I doubt I can fool the dealership and the insurance adjustor. Please, just shoot me. I mean, are we talking thousands for a new engine? It's been such a great car, I'd hate to abandon it.