Three problems related to water pump have been reported for the 1996 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I bought a 1996 Ford Contour se in June of 2003. I have since replaced the water pump 4 times. I bought the car from a man who blew the engine becuase the water pump went and he let the car over heat. I have replaced it in oct. 2003,February 2004,June 2004,and Dec. 2004. It is really started to become a burden.
Consumer bought vehicle in September. She went outside that morning to start it up her vehicle and she noticed a knocking noise comming from underneath the hood. The dealer replaced starter and water pump but problem still exist.
When the water pump failed th head gasket also failed . And possibly a cracked cylinder head.