Vibration when brakes applied. This problem started before I even pulled off the lot when I bought it used. The dealership had supposedly fixed it. Now, this was the second time that I needed to replace the rotors and brake pads. The first time I bought a set of tires, then got an alignment. Was told I needed different tires since the vibration did not stop. Bought more tires, and was told that it had nothing to do with the alignment. Today, my car would not accelerate. The check engine light came on, and I immediately took it to a repair shop. It's going to cost $120 just to have diagnostics done. I also heard strange noises from the back of the car every time I brake. I'm shopping for a new car tomorrow. I have yet to meet someone who can tell me exactly what was wrong with my car and fix it!

- Chesterfield, VA, USA

I have observed an ongoing problem with my 1999 Ford Contour where the ABS comes on whenever the brake pedal is pressed, especially at lower speeds (under 15 mph). I do not know what failed to cause this condition and offered to bring the car to a Ford dealer for inspection, but they declined to have me do so.

- Orangeburg, NY, USA

The contact's daughter's car had braking problems. The brakes lagged on reaction time in an emergency braking situation which resulted in the car being totaled. The air bags deployed, and no one was injured. The car was never taken to a mechanic to check the brakes.

- Austin, TX, USA

The ABS engaged continually due to corrosion in the tone ring apparatus. Dealer says it is unusual, and will cost $600.

- Wyoming, MI, USA

My Ford Contour only has 69000 miles. Already, brakes have had to be replaced twice, dashboard curling up about 6 inches and defrost cover has come loose blocking view, now the timing belt is going bad, had to replace to motor mount. Fuel pump also went out.

- Memphis, TN, USA

Airbags did not deploy when rear ended. My car was pushed into intersection. Damage to car was bumper, had to replace mud guards and attaching hardware. Contacted Ford about my concern they said that the force probably wasn't great enough. Everyone I spoke with asked about the airbags and were suprised when they didn't deploy as the force was greater than 20 miles an hour.

- Philadelphia, PA, USA

Consumers has been to dealer for the same brake problem 7 times before and after recall 00V075001/manufacturer's recall 00S03/ rear brake valves was done. Brakes sqeual when coming to a stop. Dealer couldn't find a remedy. Consumer states brakes squeal and sometimes they feel like there is air in them, dealer has replaced rear brake drums, problem still continues.

- Gaithersburg, MD, USA

Brakes were not operable when applied. Pedal went all the way down to floor and there was a sqeaking noise. Dealership was aware of the noise.

- Cypress, CA, USA

When braking intermittently vehicle will hear a metal to metal grinding noise. Manufacturer claims it is a normal characteristic of vehicle. Cause is unknown.

- Lake Havasu, AZ, USA

Since 12-15-99 I had Cougar in service 3 times for water leak/ 2 times shift lock, locked down because of brake light failure have complained about rear brake elco noise when backing up/ car hesitating at 50+ miles an hour /pulling to right when passing and giving the car more acceleration/car idling real high and wanting to take off when you first release the brake/ the windows not going up and down / the battery exploded/ the service was terrible at gateway the noise is still in the rear wheels. There is more where this came from the Cougar will fall apart/ the engine or transmission is a problem.( dot number: Tire size: P/215/S0R1 )

- Columbus, GA, USA

Since 12-15-99 I had Cougar in service 3 times for water leak/ 2 times shift lock, locked down because of brake light failure have complained about rear brake elco noise when backing up/ car hesitating at 50+ miles an hour /pulling to right when passing and giving the car more acceleration/car idling real high and wanting to take off when you first release the brake/ the windows not going up and down / the battery exploded/ the service was terrible at gateway the noise is still in the rear wheels. There is more where this came from the Cougar will fall apart/ the engine or transmission is a problem.( dot number: Tire size: P/215/S0R1 )

- Columbus, GA, USA

Ongoing problem with vibration whenever brakes are applied. Vehicle been inspected / repaired on three occasions. Also, replaced rotors/pads, and rear drums. But problem still reoccurring. Seeking help from NHTSA in this matter.

- Wartburg, TN, USA

Whenever brake are applied they cause a cracking sound. Dealer notified and nformed consumer that it was normal for that vehicle. Seeking help or additional informaton from NHTSA in this matter.

- Mellow Vista, CA, USA

Brakes would make grinding noises when applied. The tires are going bald. Steering wheel feels real loose whn going over bumps or turning. The front end suspension would jerk & pull to the left. Will be contacting dealer to have vehicle checked.

- Detroit, MI, USA

Ongoing/intermittent problem wit brake system failing to operate properly. When applying the brakes vehi;le would experience extended stopping distance. Vehicle has been in repair shop 11 on occasions, and nothing could be found.can NHTSA help in this matter.

- St Albans, WV, USA