Four problems related to engine belts and pulleys have been reported for the 1997 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
There is a spring clip that belongs with tensioner belt that needs to be replaced again. There comes a knocking noise and shaking from vehicle when consumer is driving. Contacted dealer, and dealer is not willing to do anything about it.
There seemed to be no warning regarding this problem, other than a slight high pitched whining noise in the am. , much like the sound of a serpentine belt. The transmission fluid level was appropriate when checked. The computer reading has stated several problems, including a bad clutch. It will cost $2000. 00 for a rebuilt transmission.
Took my car in for rattling when driving and steering. They ordered tack shield and bolts. Took it back in, they installed parts and said it didn't fix the problem. Had to order rack and pinion. Kept the car until that came in and installed it. A few days later it started squealing and smoking. Took it back in and they said it was leaking power steering fluid but they didn't know why. They kept it for a week, decided it was a defective part and installed another rack and pinion. Got it back and it was still rattling and now it has a low growl sound at an idle. Took it back. They had to replace the idler pulley and the right swade bar link. The growl is still there but they're saying that is now normal. It is not normal. It was not there until they started screwing around in there. This car is a piece of junk!.
Vehicle has knocking sound in the engine area because of timing belt loose. Yh.