My 1998 Contour shudders, on then off, on then off... when driving at about 65mph. I just replaced the timing belt and it runs smooth at lower speeds and at idle. What could be the problem?

40

Asked by Tbbury Apr 13, 2015 at 01:30 PM about the 1998 Ford Contour 4 Dr SE Sedan

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I recently replaced the timing belt and the car is running smooth at idle and lower speeds.
Also, it stalls occasionally but starts up right away.

4 Answers

40

That's a good question. It's hard to tell as it is only happening at higher speeds. It doesn't feel like the whole car. And I would think, if it's the tires or alignment, it would be constant. But it isn't. It starts, lasts for about three seconds, then stops. Then about three or four seconds later it will do it again. And this will continue until I slow down or stop.

17,815

Could be a wheel bearing or CV joint issue. At a certain speed the bearing or CV joint hits it's resonance frequency and can cause an on again and off again vibration from the part being worn.

1 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

Contour

Looking for a Used Contour in your area?

CarGurus has thousands of nationwide listings and the tools to find you a great deal.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    BobTrier
    Reputation
    410
  • #2
    Kidd1214
    Reputation
    380
  • #3
    David Koppa
    Reputation
    370
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.