1998 Ford Contour Problem

Was wondering if any of you can help me out. While driving my 1998 Ford Contour, is downshifting while driving. Going 75 mph on the highway just jumps down to 50 mph. Have had it to several dealers, mechanics and no one can find the problem. It doesn't always do it. I can go for days with no problem, then go for days where it does nothing but act up. When in the shop, they can not get the car to do it. Help! I'm desperate! Thanks in advance.

Tina

Reply to
tina Clark
Loading thread data ...

My advice is to find a Ford or Mercury dealer with a good shop. My son has a 1998 Mystique, which used to be my car. One small dealer found and fixed problems I had with the check engine light coming on and also with premature brake wear at the rear wheels. The Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique are twins and are of European design. The cars are called a Ford Mondeo in Europe, which is why they handle so well. But most American dealers don't know much about them and don't seem to care. The two largest dealers in my state, North Dakota, couldn't help me after repeated visits.

Most large dealers? shops like to get the cars in and out without doing anything but charging. This is not exclusive to Ford. One Acura dealer in Minneapolis that I've dealt with is even worst. But talk to other Contour or Mystique owners and you will find one that has had good experience and knows of an honest and competent shop. The best shops I?ve found are small dealerships in small cities. In my case the cities were Grafton and Cavalier. I hope this helps

Paul

Reply to
Paul

go to

formatting link
web site and ask the same question.. it might be the VSS(vehicle speed sensor ) i had one go out on a 93 taurus and was driving like 45-50 mph and it would downshift to 10-15 mph for a second or two and then release back to normal... about two weeks later it stayed in first gear(the wires to the VSS were weak and were not making contact).... pretty cheap fix, but you dont want it to go out on you when away from home you gonna have to drive 10 mph like i did the night it went out and i was 10 miles from home to work.....

Reply to
jim

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.