Alternator/generator/regulator problems of the 1998 Ford Contour

Eight problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 1998 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 09/18/2008

I have a 1998 Ford Contour lx with only approx. 53,000 miles on it. I am on the 4th (fourth) alternator replacement: August 2004, October 2005, August 2006 and now, September 2008. There is definitely a problem with this car. I would like to know if there has been a recall on this year and model of Ford vehicle.

2 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2003

Constant problems with the vehicle. Alternator, fuel tank, gear shift indicator, computer sensor's (variable cam timing over retarded), automatic shift labored and fails, cooling fan motor, etc. This vehicle is in some form of repair shop on a regular basis. Have I driven a Ford lately? yes, and sorry I chose to do so.

3 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 05/16/2002

Alternator originally replaced on 06/04/2001,part failed on 05/16/2002.

4 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2001

No summary listed for above vehicle.

5 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 01/25/2001

No summary listed for above vehicle.

6 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 06/11/2000

I have taken my car to the Ford dealer twice and they have been unable to fix my car. Yet they find it neccessary to keep my car for weeks at a time. I am at the point to where I want them to take this car back and give me a nother one. Please help me. I have no more rental car fees and they are looking at my situation like OH well. That is not fair to me. If you have any suggestions or any knowledge that will eleviate my problem please get in contact with me.

7 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 12/28/1999

While driving at interstate speeds our alternator wire melted off at the connection to the alternator. The alternator, the wire and a 175 amp fuse were all bad. A replacement alternator could not be found in less than 2 days so the original alternator was rebuilt. I have in my possesion the blown 175 amp fuse and the melted alternator wire. This is the second time an electrical wire has melted on our 1998 Contour. It is the third time we have been stranded. Ford has a service bulletin for this type of problem with the correction being, replace the alternator and the wire on Contours with the 2. 5l engine.

8 Alternator/generator/regulator problem

Failure Date: 12/03/1999

While driving vehicle oil light came on. Engine stalled out. Noticed a reflection of flames on the ground. Lifted hood of vehicle & noticed the engine was on fire. Driver put flames out. The alternator was just replaced, twice, prior to fire. Was no warning.




Fuel Economy of Contour Vehicles
Contour Service Bulletins
Contour Safety Recalls
Contour Defect Investigations