Ford Contour Oxygen Sensor Guide (1995-2000): Symptoms and Replacement
Fix your check engine light and bad gas mileage by choosing the right oxygen sensor for your Contour.
- Your Contour has two (4-cyl) or four (V6) oxygen sensors; identify the correct one before buying.
- A bad O2 sensor will trigger the Check Engine Light and hurt your gas mileage.
- Choose a 'direct-fit' sensor from a reputable brand like Bosch, Denso, or NGK to avoid installation problems.
- Ignoring a bad sensor can lead to a much more expensive catalytic converter failure.
Is Your Ford Contour's Oxygen Sensor Failing?
A bad oxygen sensor can cause a variety of problems for your 1995-2000 Ford Contour. When a sensor fails, the engine's computer gets the wrong information, which can lead to poor performance and other issues. Ignoring a failing O2 sensor can eventually cause expensive damage to your catalytic converter.
Common Symptoms of a Bad O2 Sensor:
🎬 Watch: A visual guide to common symptoms of a bad sensor- Check Engine Light: This is the most common sign. The light will turn on when the computer detects a problem, often with codes like P0133, P0153, P0141, or P0161.
- Poor Fuel Economy: Your car's computer may make the fuel mixture too rich, causing you to use more gas than usual.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: An incorrect air-fuel mix can make your engine run rough, shake, or misfire, especially when stopped.
- Sluggish Performance: You might notice your Contour feels slow or has trouble accelerating.
- Failed Emissions Test: A bad O2 sensor is a common reason for failing a smog check.
- Bad Smells: A "rotten egg" smell from the exhaust can mean unburned fuel is damaging the catalytic converter.
How Many Sensors Does My Contour Have?
🎬 See this video to find the O2 sensor locations on your ContourThis is a common point of confusion. The number of sensors depends on your engine:
- 2.0L 4-Cylinder (Zetec): Your car has two oxygen sensors. One is upstream (before the catalytic converter) and one is downstream (after the converter).
- 2.5L V6 (Duratec): Your car has four oxygen sensors. There are two upstream sensors (one for each cylinder bank) and two downstream sensors.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oxygen Sensor
You don't need to buy the most expensive sensor, but choosing a quality part is important. Aftermarket brands offer a good balance of quality and price. Always choose a "direct-fit" sensor. These plug right into your car's wiring harness without any cutting or splicing. Be aware that connectors can differ by year; for example, 2000 models may have different plugs than earlier years.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Premium Brands (Bosch, Denso, NGK/NTK): These companies are often the original equipment (OE) suppliers for Ford and other automakers. Their aftermarket parts are made to the same high standards. They are a reliable choice for performance and long life.
- Standard Brands (Delphi, Walker Products): These are well-known aftermarket brands that offer good quality and reliability at a lower price than premium brands. They are a solid choice for most repairs.
- Economy Brands (Spectra, DriveWire): These are budget-friendly options that meet basic requirements. They can be a good choice if cost is your main concern, but their lifespan may not be as long as premium or standard brands.
Pro Tip: Upstream vs. Downstream
Upstream and downstream sensors are not interchangeable, even if they look similar. The upstream sensor (Sensor 1) does the critical work of fuel mixture adjustment, while the downstream sensor (Sensor 2) monitors the catalytic converter. Always make sure you are buying the correct sensor for the specific location.
Cost to Replace a Ford Contour Oxygen Sensor
The total cost depends on the part price and whether you do the work yourself or hire a mechanic. Replacing an O2 sensor is a manageable DIY job for many people.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough for replacing the V6 Duratec oxygen sensor| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Oxygen Sensor | $25 - $96 |
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Oxygen Sensor | $60 - $110 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $175 per sensor |
| Total (DIY) | $25 - $96 per sensor |
| Total (at a shop) | $125 - $271 per sensor |
Cost estimates are for a single sensor and do not include taxes or shop supply fees. Labor costs can vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sensor is Bank 1, Sensor 1?
On the V6 engine, "Bank 1" is the cylinder bank against the firewall (the back of the engine bay). "Bank 2" is the bank closer to the radiator. "Sensor 1" is always the upstream sensor, located before the catalytic converter. So, Bank 1, Sensor 1 is the upstream sensor on the firewall side of the engine.
Can I clean my old oxygen sensor?
While some people attempt to clean O2 sensors, it is not a reliable or recommended fix. Contaminants that cause the sensor to fail are often internal. Replacement is the only way to guarantee the problem is solved.
What tools do I need for the replacement?
The most important tool is a special oxygen sensor socket, which has a slot for the wire to pass through. You will also need a 3/8-inch drive ratchet. A 7/8" or 22mm wrench can also work in some cases. Applying anti-seize compound to the threads of the new sensor is also recommended (many new sensors include a small packet).
Are there any recalls for the Ford Contour oxygen sensor?
No, there are no specific recalls for the oxygen sensors on the 1995-2000 Ford Contour. However, Ford did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 01-9-7) with diagnostic tips for technicians dealing with HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) codes.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F5RZ-9F472-B XC2Z-9F472-BB 5L8Z-9F472-BA 5F9Z9G444BA 6E5Z9G444A
Number of sensors varies by engine. 2.0L I4 engines use two sensors (one upstream, one downstream). 2.5L V6 engines use four sensors (two upstream, two downstream). Connectors may vary by model year.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Contour:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Ford Contour's Oxygen Sensor Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad O2 Sensor:
- How Many Sensors Does My Contour Have?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Oxygen Sensor
- Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Pro Tip: Upstream vs. Downstream
- Cost to Replace a Ford Contour Oxygen Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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