Two problems related to catalytic convertor have been reported for the 1998 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Check engine light illuminated 9/04 and I took my 98 Ford Contour to my mechanic who diagnosed it as needing a new catalytic converter. I took it to Ford in 3/05 (because my mechanic said it could wait awhile) and they diagnosed a different code and replaced the manifold. After paying $600. 00 to Ford, the light came on again after 45 miles. Took the car to autozone and they diagnosed a catalytic code. I had told Ford that was the problem before I brought it in and now they want me to re-diagnosed with them out of pocket.
My understanding is there is supposedly 4 catalytic converters on the 1998 Contour.