One problem related to water pump has been reported for the 1998 Lincoln Continental. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Consumer stated at 17,000 miles, the engine overheated and failed to continue operating, dealership examined the vehicle and made the necessary repairs to remedy problem, then on 26-Sep-2001, engine was leaking oil from the right valve cover gasket which had to be replaced, also the water pump was leaking, the door ajar light on dashboard illuminated and would not go out leaving doors in the open position.