Three problems related to turn signal flasher unit have been reported for the 1997 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Turn signal makes clicking noise when signal not in use. Signals do work. This lasted on/off for 7 months, then smoke started coming out of steering column.
Transmission floor shift lever button would stick making it very hard to get out of park into gear repair done by Ford replaced shift actuator & solenoid. Turn signal makes clicking noise when signal not is use. Signals do work.
Since this car was new I have replaced the rear signal bulbs 3 times myself before bringing the car in for service. Since then I have had this car at the dealer no less than 5 times in the last 3 years for signal lights. They have replcaced the bulbs 5 times mostly drivers side. Replaced defective bulb sockets and poor wiring(loose connections). I was told that the bulbs on both rear signals were replaced the last time at the dealer. I also noticed heat damage on some of the sockets. I really don't think everything is ok.