I know this topic is old but I have the same sort of issue.

Just bought a 98 Contour GL/2.0L, auto tranny with 91K.
Car runs fine and feels strong considering the mileage.
The water pump and thermostat housing and parts around it appear to be new/replaced.
No leaks around the motor or any of the cooling system parts/hoses.

Issue:
Temp gauge sits around the L in NORMAL after about 10-15 minutes of driving after initial startup.
Goes down to A from time to time on the highway or steady driving.

The cooling fans appear to work and the car seems fine but I want to make sure I'm not over looking anything.


1.
98Mistake, did you get your issue resolved ?


2.
Does any auto parts store do a free read of the ECU to check the actual temp of the car ?


After reading some threads, I'm wondering if it's just the temp gauge giving me a "false" HOT reading...


Any suggestions are welcome.

98 Contour GL/03 ZX3 Focus/05 ZX3 SES Focus