Actions To Repair
- Check for correct tire sizes and adjust tire pressure.
- Install new tires as necessary.
- Adjust vehicle load evenly.
- Adjust wheel alignment as necessary. For 1998-99 models, see SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES - CARS article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT. For 2000 models, see SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES - CARS article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
- Install new front suspension components as necessary. For 1998-99 models, see FRONT - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in SUSPENSION. For 2000 models, see FRONT - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in SUSPENSION.
- Install new rear suspension components as necessary. For 1998-99 models, see REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in SUSPENSION. For 2000 models, see REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article under SUSPENSION.
- Shift transaxle into Neutral while driving at not more than 30 MPH (50 km/h). Turn ignition to the ACC position (engine off, coasting). If vehicle does not pull with the engine off, install a new power steering gear. See STEERING GEAR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. If vehicle does drift with engine off, cross switch front tire/wheel assemblies. If vehicle pulls to opposite side, crisscross tire/wheel assemblies that were on the rear to same side on the front. If vehicle pull direction is not changed, check front suspension components and wheel alignment.
- Install new brake components as necessary. For 1998-99 models, see DISC & DRUM - CONTOUR, ESCORT, MYSTIQUE & TRACER article or ANTI-LOCK - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in BRAKES. For 2000 model, see DISC & DRUM - CONTOUR, ESCAPE, ESCORT & MYSTIQUE article or ANTI-LOCK/TRACTION CONTROL - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in BRAKES.
- Install new front and rear suspension components as necessary. For 1998-99 models, see FRONT - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE and REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE articles in SUSPENSION. For 2000 models, see FRONT - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE and REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE articles in SUSPENSION.
- Install new rear suspension components as necessary and be sure to tighten all retaining bolts to specification. For 1998-99 models, see REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article in SUSPENSION. For 2000 models, see REAR - CONTOUR, COUGAR & MYSTIQUE article under SUSPENSION.