Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Branches Eastern Canada CEL Light

Took my car in last week when my CEL came on. I was informed that I needed to replace the right exhaust manifold and catalytic converter. The converter is covered but the manifold is not. Just wondered what could cause both to go at only 60k miles.

Ken

They are both Cats. Therefore they are both covered under the same warranty unless I am missing something here. Sounds to me like they are trying to take you for a ride. I'd be asking some questions. Further more there is the actuall release about the recall somewhere here on the site. I think in the FAQ's. I'd down load it and take a look. Assuming you find written word to back this up print it off and take it into the dealership. The recall also gives you a loaner car and covers up to 80000 miles I believe. Hope this helps.

The exhaust manifold is NOT a catalytic converter.

Mike

From my copy of the work order, the one I had to pay out of my pocket, they did the following:

1) Code 102327: Replace right exhaust manifold

2) Replace intake runner control module

The total for me was close to $600. Ford picked up the cost of the catalytic converter. I was told that it cost Ford $700 plus labour. Unfortunately, they wouldn't let me see the paper work for the catalytic converter. As for the rental cost, Ford didn't cover it but the dealer, Dixie Ford, covered half of my rental though.

I just recall the previous CEL experience I had was just six months ago. The mechanic then quoted in his report that the catalytic converter might require replacement. Instead they just changed one of the 02 sensor. I wonder why they didn't do it then when I still had my PremiumCare. The current CEL light occurred just five days after my warranty expired. Figures ...

Ken

Not sure how IMRC module got into your work order since you didn't mention it in prior post.
However, both the exhaust manifolds (c/w pre-cats) and the main cat are covered in US for 8yr/80k mile warranty (8yr/130k km in Canada, 7yr/70k miles in California) and you should not have had to pay any of that cost. Recall mentioned previously applied to earlier ('95-early '96)Contiques and required relacement of both manifolds and main cat. Subsequent problems and those encountered in other model years covered by emissions warranty. Rental not included (unless perhaps if you have an ESP).

Suggest you return to dealer for full and frank discussion of what was done and why it wasn't totally covered under the warranty. BTW, I presume that CEL code was P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1).

IMRC module replacement sounds like 1 hr + parts.

I had both my Contour's manifolds replaced in May at 129,900km n/c. Parts were about $1200(list), labour 4.2 hrs.

Weird I had a rental for my replacemnet but as you say that may have been because of the ESP. Thanks for clearing the air though.

From my previous repair six months ago, the CEL code was a P0420. It also had another code which I'll have to find tonight and I'll post it. All they did in the first occurance was replaced the 02 sensor. As for this repair, they didn't list the code on my work order. From the FAQ, all I found was the recall for 95 and 96 model. I didn't find anything mentioning 98 and later.

I'll drop by the dealership today and see what they say.

Thanks to everyone for your help. It's greatly appreciated.

Ken