Four problems related to automatic transmission torque converter have been reported for the 1996 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Torque converter failed in January, 2001, causing damage to the automatic transmission which required replacement at a cost of $2,600. Five months later, the torque converter again required replacement. Replaced with Ford parts. Now in April, 2002, the transmission again caused problems with stalling in traffic, overdirve light flashing, very rough shifting. Diagnostics indicate the torque converter came apart and damaged the automatic transmission again. Replacement cost will be $2,400.
Transmission failure - complete failure of 2-3 gear shift and also locking torque converter.
Transmission/torque converter, and engine valve failure.
Stalling in traffic with high outside temperature, overdrive off light flashes, very rough shifting, diagnostics indicate torque converter clutch slipping, transmission being replaced.