1995 Ford Contour Logo
Posted on Aug 27, 2009
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1997 Ford Contour with a rough idle while stopped

I have a 1997 Ford Contour with the 2.0L DOHC 4 cylinder engine. The car runs great going down the highway or rural/urban roads, but when I come to a stop at a light or a stop sign, the car idles rough and acts as if it will die. I shift into park or neutral and the idle is great. I replaced the idle air bypass/control valve and the car does the same thing, idles rough when stopped. Any ideas? I'm thinking a vacuum hose is off but do not have a vacuum hose diagram to go by. Anyone know where I can obtain such a diagram? Also it runs a little warmer than I like, though it is still in the normal range. I do not see or hear the radiator fan come on. Would that be the fan motor or what? Please help. Thank you.

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Sean Wright

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  • Ford Master 2,045 Answers
  • Posted on Aug 27, 2009
Sean Wright
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Joined: Aug 27, 2009
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This is a common complaint on these cars. I own a 96 myself.
Assuming that you engine is fine and runs smoothly under normal operation, and just is rough "feeling" at idle while stopped; then I would suggest changing the motor mounts...the mounts may not be broken, but the rubber isolators get worn and soft, and transffer normal engine vibration into the chasis of the vehicle. Mine was doing the same after changing the mounts good as new again.
Please note...don't use cheap mounts, by the better grade/quality mounts.

Btw, I’m available to help over the phone in case u need at https://www.6ya.com/expert/sean_54c3a3dc48a7773c

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  • Posted on Aug 28, 2009
Anonymous
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I have a 97 also. It had a motor overhaul and still did the same thing. I found out that it is the vacuum hose behind the engine, it was broken off some how. The problem that I have is that I can fix it but I dont know where the other end of the hose attaches to.

  • k2000pkp Aug 03, 2011

    Man, alot of people have this problem....Try this: Check each spark plug boot for any kind of condensation or granular buildup near plug connection. Spray with WD40, then shake out excess WD40 and dry with a small rolled up rag. I had new boots, #3 had the white granular material. I cleaned it as described and it solved 100% of the problem. (97 contour)

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