Originally posted by Jeb Hoge:
If your car falls under the 99M03 recall, it doesn't cost a thing except time. Look on the www.contour.org FAQ for the recall info.

If you're not eligible for it...it's a heavy hit to the wallet.



Interesting. I got a call from the service writer, finally, saying that they'd gotten the bill down to something that he thought I'd find more acceptable.

Then he named a number over $700. Don't remember exactly what. But it's down from the over $1400 he mentioned when we talked on Friday.

Now, bear in mind, here's what I had done.

99M03 Wiring Harness Recall (under warranty)
Replace Radiator (while engine was out and coolant drained)
Replace Lower Radiator Hose (while engine was out and coolant drained)
Replace Waterpump Belt
Replace Windshield (broken by technician)
Replace Power Steering Line (broken by technician)

The radiator, hose, and belt were all items I agreed to pay for, and was assured that since the engine was out and on a cart with the radiator immediately available, it would be negligible labor. Same with the waterpump belt (5 minutes to replace).

I asked how he figured his numbers, and he hesitated long enough that I just said "Let's just wait until the morning so I can come in and look at it myself." Bear in mind that this Thursday will mark 7 weeks of the car being in Jerry's Ford.

"Think of it, if you like, as a librarian with a G-string under the tweed." Clarkson on the Mondeo.