One problem related to starter solenoid has been reported for the 1998 Ford Contour. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
This car has been nothing but problems, springs, brakes last 4 months,water pumps went at 63,000, tires wear out in less than a year, temperature gauges do not read right. Engine races, solenoid went. . . . Very expensive to fix. I do not understand why everyone is having the same problems but no help?.