Why does the check engine light in my Contour turn on when I start my car?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your Contour firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are Ford Contour engine noises bad?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Ford Contour engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my Ford Contour engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I put water in my Ford Contour radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my Contour engine to suddenly stop?

If your Contour car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.

Where can I go for Ford Contour repair?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Ford Contour engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.

Reliable Repairs for 1998 Ford Contour Engines

Learn about

1998 Ford Contour Trim Options

Select your Ford Contour trim level to learn more about Ford-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/2.0L

V6/2.5L

1998 Ford Contour Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford Contour's many parts and pieces. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1998 Ford Contour services.

We Know Ford Contour Engines

Ford Contour engines are known for their reliability. You probably thought about that when you got it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Things can go wrong on the road. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1998 Ford service center — quick! That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced millions of vehicles since 1926, and our professional technicians are trained to service Ford Contour engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1998 Ford Contour

If your Contour check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your vehicle's ignition, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Contour issues diagnosed and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs it's time for Ford Contour engine service might include essential fluid leaks, or misfiring.

Ford Contour Engine Repair

If your 1998 Ford Contour needs engine repair, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Ford Contour engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Ford-approved parts and components like the cambelt, oil gasket, fuses, or another part.

1998 Ford Contour Engine Q&A

Why does the check engine light in my Contour turn on when I start my car? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your Contour firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are Ford Contour engine noises bad? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Ford Contour engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Ford Contour engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I put water in my Ford Contour radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my Contour engine to suddenly stop? If your Contour car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Where can I go for Ford Contour repair? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Ford Contour engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.