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1998 Ford Contour Won't Start

FORD CONTOUR
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KIMVNEB
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  • 2 POSTS
Today I tried to start my 98 Ford Contour for the first time in about 5 days because it had been snowing. I started my car two days ago and it worked fine, but today was going out and tried to start it and it wouldn't. When I tried to start, it made a sound like it was sliding I guess. I know absolutely nothing about cars so I don't know about technical terms lol. Usually when I try to start it, it's like it grabs then starts, but this time it's like it couldn't grab? I don't know how to explain it really. I was thinking it might be not enough oil because I've been forgetting to put it in, but I have no idea if that would affect it not starting.

I'm trying to avoid towing it so any help would be appreciated.
Jan 26, 2007 at 7:20 AM
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BUBBA_KOSKI
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 129 POSTS
test your battery at any parts store. if its a sluggish start get back with me for more info.
Jan 26, 2007 at 11:24 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
Certainly check you oil level and make sure it's good.

Does the engine crank (turn over)-the noise you hear before it normally starts when you turn the key all the way?

Or does it make a noise you usually don't hear when the key is turned all the way?
Jan 26, 2007 at 11:40 AM
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KIMVNEB
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[quote:f457c9d169="Service Writer"]Certainly check you oil level and make sure it's good.

Does the engine crank (turn over)-the noise you hear before it normally starts when you turn the key all the way?

Or does it make a noise you usually don't hear when the key is turned all the way?[/quote:f457c9d169]
I dont think it's making a sound like it's trying to turn over. I guess I could describe it like it's two pieces of metal sliding against each other.

Edit: I tried again a few minutes ago and now it sounds more like it's trying to turn over
Jan 26, 2007 at 6:00 PM
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CARUNDELL
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 602 POSTS
[quote:2e3cee967f="KimVneb"][quote:2e3cee967f="Service Writer"]Certainly check you oil level and make sure it's good.

Does the engine crank (turn over)-the noise you hear before it normally starts when you turn the key all the way?

Or does it make a noise you usually don't hear when the key is turned all the way?[/quote:2e3cee967f]
I dont think it's making a sound like it's trying to turn over. I guess I could describe it like it's two pieces of metal sliding against each other.[/quote:2e3cee967f]

Hey Kim,
See if you can get a friend to help you with a jump start. Sounds like the battery may have lost a bit of its charge Let us know!

Chris
Jan 26, 2007 at 8:50 PM
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Suggested Repair

Check the oil level, have the battery tested at a parts store, and try a jump start. A weak or discharged battery is the most likely cause of the no-start and sliding or slow cranking sound.

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Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Ford Contour said it would not start after sitting several days in snow. It made a metal-sliding sound instead of the usual grab-and-start, then later sounded more like it was trying to turn over. The owner also worried about low oil. Experts advised checking the oil level, testing the battery, and attempting a jump start in case the battery had lost charge.

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