1998 Ford Contour Runs Hot

FORD CONTOUR
Avatar
SALVAS-ONE
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
My 98 Ford, Contour with 144,000+ miles has been running abnormally hot lately. I brought it in for a checkup and they found nothing wrong. Said the computer was not reading as hot as the gage in the car.

The head gasket leak test was perfect, no leakage at all. The thermostat also checked out OK. If the water pump was getting tired you'ld think they would have told me.

I don't know what to think. If you think it is the water pump could you give me a ball park figure on how much it should cost to replace it?

Thank you for your time and consideration
Nov 2, 2006 at 3:01 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
BRUCE HUNT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,754 POSTS
I wouldn't replace the water pump. The only way they fail and let you know is by starting to leak. Just watch the fluid levels and the ground around the vehicle. I am not that familiar with the contour as I really work on Hondas but an engine is an engine. Have you thought about replacing the temp sensor or did they check that as well. The guage only reads the temp sent to it but the sensor is responsible for finding the temp and passing it to the guage. Now you as the driiver should be able to recognize whether the guage itself has been acting different as in sticking a bit, reponding slower, etc. The last suggestion I have is don't overlook the radiator cap as it is responsible for regulating the overflow.
Nov 3, 2006 at 12:30 AM
Avatar
SALVAS-ONE
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Bruce,

Thanks for your timely reply! I got lost trying to find my way back here so it took me a while to figure it our. Very frustrating...

I have thought about sensor but, when the car is hot after driving for a while (say 20 to 30 min), the car smells like it's hot. I'm sure you know the smell. Makes me nervous at consecutive stop lights or caught in med to heavy traffic. The fluid levels remain ok, there are no leaks. The Contour has no radiator cap per se. The system is pressurised through the overflow bottle. This also makes it difficult to see how well the system circulates. In the mean time I will probably buy a new sensor (if not to expensive) and give that a try.

If you can think of anything else I would appreciate the heads up, if not thank you for trying and the previous info.

Mike Salvas
Swansea, MA.

*****************************************


[quote:382b003166="Bruce Hunt"]I wouldn't replace the water pump. The only way they fail and let you know is by starting to leak. Just watch the fluid levels and the ground around the vehicle. I am not that familiar with the contour as I really work on Hondas but an engine is an engine. Have you thought about replacing the temp sensor or did they check that as well. The guage only reads the temp sent to it but the sensor is responsible for finding the temp and passing it to the guage. Now you as the driiver should be able to recognize whether the guage itself has been acting different as in sticking a bit, reponding slower, etc. The last suggestion I have is don't overlook the radiator cap as it is responsible for regulating the overflow.[/quote:382b003166]
Nov 10, 2006 at 12:57 PM
Avatar
CATCH_15
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 250 POSTS
The system could possibly be air locked.
Nov 10, 2006 at 2:19 PM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Suggested Repair

Do not replace the water pump unless it is leaking. Check the temperature sensor and gauge response, the coolant reservoir pressure cap, and whether the cooling system is air locked.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Ford Contour with over 144,000 miles reported that it ran abnormally hot and smelled hot in traffic, although a shop found no overheating, a good head-gasket test, and a working thermostat. The computer also read cooler than the gauge. An expert advised against replacing the water pump unless it leaked and suggested checking the temperature sensor, gauge behavior, and pressure regulation. The owner noted no leaks and said the Contour is pressurized through the overflow bottle. Another expert suggested a possible air lock.

Related Repair Questions

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle