My 95 Contour started for two seconds, then died. It would not start after that. My mechanic determined that the fuel pump quit. I only had the car two days from purchase, so I checked online for service issues, recalls, etc., and found out all the various fuel, electrical, emission and other problems this vehicle has, my biggest concern being that it could catch fire(I do have a family to drive around), I am very disappointed about the uncooperative coming from the dealerships concerning all this, I am very low-income, I spent $1000 for this car thinking it was a good dependable car, and now find myself wondering how I will be able to afford all the repairs on my single income, Ford, shame on you!!

- Willmar, MN, USA

Engine cooling fan caught fire in 1999 - car under warranty and repaired by dealership. 2 more engine cooling problems in 1999 the most serious problem was when the water pump failed. The engine had to be replaced. In 2002 the engine began overheating and we had to replace the thermostat, other problems encountered were replacement of oxygen sensor and fuel pump due to leakage. In June 2003 car overheating, the cooling fan connection had become disconnected. In July 2003 car overheating, checked by mechanic who noted that there water pump was leaking, recommended dealership repair due to cost. On day one dealership estimated cost of water pump replacement $380. Day two dealership calls - head gasket blown and fan belt worn bill now $1100. Day three dealership calls - one of the oxygen sensors and another part needs replacing an additional $300-400.00. Total bill $1600.

- El Paso, TX, USA

Engine/ brakes/ starter /catalytic converter/ fuel pump and fuse failed. Dealership was aware of problem vehicle wouldn't start, and radiator went out also.

- Memphis, TN, USA

Beginning a month ago, my car will not start on an intermittent basis. I have had it towed into 2 different independent shops, replaced fuel filter, and fuel pump. Car still won't start early mornings. Had car towed to Ford dealership, the retained car 48 hours, could not identify problem. Friends suggests it may be emi causing problem. Ford Motor Company in dearborn, mi does not respond to my questions regarding emi (electrical interference with my car's "computer". neighbors with Ford automobiles have had similar problems. We live in a senior mobile home park and have not gotten answers from our landlord.

- Napa, CA, USA

Fuel pump and water pump leakage caused vehicle to overheat, and damaged the engine head gasket.

- Gaithersburg, MD, USA

Fuel pump failed, causing intermittent stalling.

- Indiana , PA, USA