Troy,
I have a 2000 SVT #289 of 2150 and so far have not had any serious problems. I do have a few things I'd like to bring up that concern me about this vehicle and SVT.
Issues with the CONTOUR:Overall, it's a great car and I'm happy with 95% of it, but?
1). I'm most concerned with the paint quality. I understand that the EPA is tough and Ford uses water-based paints, but Ford's method of application needs improvement. This is my first clear-coated car and I know the process is base-coat then clear-coat. Unfortunately, the coats on my SVT are much too thin and areas like the engine compartment and inside trunk are not clear coated at all. The finish is flat and has uneven coverage. It's embarrassing to open the hood. The super thin application also promotes a lot of stone chips, more than the acceptable amount. However, this is one area that SVT isn't as much at fault on, as is the Kansas City Assembly plant.
2). The longevity of the engine is also a concern. I haven't had any serious problems in my first 14K miles, but I also wonder how long it will last. I debate on getting the extended warranty, or not? I wonder if Cleveland Engine Plant #2 is even capable of producing new SVT replacement engines, should the worst occur? I do know that Ford planned on producing a new stamped steel oil-pan for the Duratec, but nothing ever came about. This whole oil theory doesn't leave one feeling warm and cozy.
3). The sunroof locked-open deal can usually be resolved with relieving the tension of the bound motor assembly. Just loosening the single motor screw can fix the problem. To bad the dealers never figured this out. I've seen lots of posts on the board by people who have had the who thing replaced many times, only to have the problem keep reoccurring. I learned this myself by doing my own troubleshooting. Hint, Hint TSB?? ;-)
Issues with SVT/ SVTCOA:I agree with the majority of people on this board?
1). Customer Service, and or lack of it, seems to be a big sore spot. I think the dealership is generally to blame is a lot of instances, but the one thing the upsets me is the new "premium service" for 2001 SVT owners. They get a guaranteed loaner and a free wash/vacuum during each dealer visit. What about the other SVT owners still in their warranty period? Can we be pro-rated and get this service until it expires? Why do all the benefits come after I purchase a vehicle? Maybe this is one of Ford's ways of keeping us in new vehicles. As I understand it, the guy at the dealer in front of me with his new 2001 SVT Focus will be smiling as his car comes out of the service department nice and clean, while I'm stuck pealing the paper floor mat and plastic seat cover off myself in my dirty 2000 Contour. That doesn't make me smile.
2). The fact that SVT offers no incentives to purchase one of their vehicles is another issue that burns the skin off my rear. At least provide some decent financing rates from Ford Motor Credit. They will still be making money! Why to SVT owners get stuck at 9-10% when the standard Ford cars/trucks can get 4.9% or lower financing? Also revise the College Graduate discount program! Make it available to people who have graduated, but didn't choose to instantly run out and buy a Ford before they even got a job. I missed this unfair arbitrary deadline by 1 month and was pretty much ignored by Ford Customer Service and the Survey Team. I point is our only incentive is a vehicle that is supposed to be above normal in quality, performance and value.
3). Aftermarket support for the Contour in the FRPP catalog would be a nice start. Cups, clothes, etc are a good. I recommend some other useful items such as, but not limited to:
- Mudguards specifically molded to fit the SVT Contour side skirts.
- Floor Mats molded to the floor pan shape that hold and contain snow & dirt
- Pillar Gauge-pod kit with oil pressure and voltage gauges.
Looking back on this post, my list could go on and on. I guess I just needed to vent a little and point out some ideas. Thanks for reading this post and taking the time to come to the CEG. Feel free to email me if you have any questions or concerns.
------------------
Tom,
89GT STEEDA 2000 SVT Contour (#289 of 2150) Items 4-Sale
