Four problems related to steering wheel have been reported for the 1996 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
No summary provided by consumer( dot number: ??? tire size: ??? ).
Steering column bolt siezed causing steering column to lock up while driving.
No summary provided by consumer.
Steering wheel, column, dash board, and now I can feel it in the drivers seat ,vibrate when car is at a complete stop. Vibration lessens slightly when the car is placed in park. The Ford service dealer in warner robins, GA diagnosed the problem as "correction diag and needs air bag, radiator support and steering wheel damper" I was also advised none of the repairs were covered under my esp plan as these were external probalms and the warranty only covers internal. My warranty runs at at either 72000 or on Nov 10, 2000. I am concerned about the air bag specifically. Will it deploy when it should, or shouldn't or not at all? I asked the service department if their records indicate any serious damage would be done if I did not have the repairs done and they told me no. This I don't beleive as I feel the problem getting worse. How will I be able to control the car if this problem continues to get worse? I feel Ford should look into this problem, if it is a major defect it could result in a major lawsuit.