1995-2000 Ford Contour Wheel Cover: Styles, Fitment, and Preventing Loss
This guide covers the different wheel cover styles for the 1995-2000 Ford Contour, how to buy a good used replacement, and simple tricks to keep it from flying off.
- The most critical step when buying a used wheel cover is to inspect the back for broken or brittle plastic retaining clips; this is the #1 cause of failure.
- The 1995-2000 Contour used multiple wheel cover styles in 14-inch and 15-inch sizes; visually match your existing covers to ensure you buy the correct one.
- To prevent losing a replacement cover, use one or two black zip ties to discreetly secure it to the steel wheel underneath.
- Installation is extremely easy and requires no tools; simply align the cover with the valve stem and tap it into place.
Symptoms of a Failing or Missing Wheel Cover
The signs of a problematic wheel cover are almost always visual or audible. Because it's not a functional part of the car's operation, you won't get a warning light, but you may notice one of the following symptoms:
- Missing Cover: The most obvious symptom is a bare, black steel wheel where a silver-painted cover used to be. This is the most common failure.
- Rattling or Clicking Noises: A loose or cracked wheel cover can rattle or click as the wheel rotates, especially at low speeds. This noise is caused by the cover moving against the steel wheel because one or more of its retaining clips are broken or have lost tension.
- Visible Damage: Cracks, large chips, or a peeling finish are clear signs of failure. Curb impacts are a frequent cause of this kind of damage, which can weaken the cover and lead to it eventually falling off.
Known Issues & Common Problems
The single most common issue with 1995-2000 Ford Contour wheel covers is simply falling off. This happens for a few key reasons:
- Brittle Plastic Clips: After years of exposure to heat cycles, road salt, and UV rays, the plastic retaining clips on the back of the cover become brittle and lose their flexibility. A sharp impact from a pothole can easily snap these aged clips, causing the cover to detach.
- Improper Installation: If the cover isn't perfectly aligned with the valve stem and seated evenly all the way around, it won't be secure. Technicians changing tires sometimes rush this step, leaving the cover vulnerable to falling off.
- Impact Damage: Hitting a curb or a major pothole can be enough to dislodge the cover, even if the clips are in decent condition.
Pro Tip: To prevent losing a wheel cover, especially a new or expensive replacement, you can use black or silver zip ties as a discreet security measure. Loop one or two ties through the spokes of the cover and the openings in the steel wheel beneath it. This is a cheap and effective way to guarantee it stays on the vehicle.
🎬 Watch this quick tip on how to keep hubcaps from falling offRecalls & TSBs: There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Ford or the NHTSA specifically for the wheel covers on the 1995-2000 Ford Contour. Any issues are related to age, wear, or impact rather than a manufacturing defect.
Buying a Used 1995-2000 Ford Contour Wheel Cover
Since new OEM wheel covers are often expensive or discontinued, a used OEM cover is usually the best value. Here’s what to inspect before you buy:
- Flip It Over and Check the Clips: This is the most critical inspection. Examine all the plastic retaining clips on the back. Reject any cover that has even one broken, cracked, or visibly stressed clip. Gently flex a clip with your finger; it should have some springiness and not feel rock-hard or brittle.
- Inspect for Hairline Cracks: Check the entire surface and especially the outer edge for any cracks. A small crack from a past curb impact can quickly grow and cause a piece of the cover to break off or the entire cover to fail.
- Verify the Style and Size: The Ford Contour used several different wheel cover designs and at least two sizes (14-inch and 15-inch) during its production run. Bring a photo of your remaining wheel covers or the wheel itself to ensure you are buying an exact match. Mismatched covers can look awkward and may not fit securely.
- Assess Cosmetic Condition: Look for deep scrapes, peeling paint, or clear coat failure. While minor scuffs are expected on a used part, severe cosmetic damage may not be worth the cost.
Choosing a used OEM wheel cover over a cheap aftermarket one is often a wise decision. Factory originals are made from higher-quality, more durable plastic that better resists cracking and fits more securely than many generic replacements.
Ford Contour Wheel Cover Styles (1995-2000)
Identifying the correct style is crucial for a perfect match. Here are some of the common designs:
| Years | Size | Description | Common Part Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995-1997 | 14" | Directional 10-slot design | F5RZ1130C |
| 1995-1999 | 14" | 12-spoke design | F5RZ-1130-D |
| 1998-2000 | 14" | 5-spoke "star" design | 97BG-1130-MA |
| 1998-2000 | 15" | 7-spoke design | 97BG-1130-MB |
Note: This table is a general guide. Always visually match the cover, as trim levels and options could affect which cover was originally on the car.
Cost Comparison for a Single Wheel Cover
| Part Type | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $50 - $75+ (if available) | Often discontinued or hard to find. Prices can be high for remaining stock. |
| New Aftermarket | $20 - $40 | Widely available from retailers like O'Reilly or AutoZone. Quality and fit can be inconsistent. |
| Used OEM | $15 - $65 | Best balance of cost and quality. Prices vary by style, condition, and seller. |
| Shop Labor | $0 - $25 | Installation is simple enough for DIY. A shop might charge a small fee if not done with other service. | 🎬 See how simple it is to change wheel covers yourself
Installation Guide
Replacing a wheel cover is one of the easiest automotive tasks you can perform.
- Difficulty: 1 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 2 minutes
- Tools Needed: None (a rubber mallet is optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
- Align the Valve Stem: Find the small cutout or indentation on the edge of the wheel cover. This must be aligned with the tire's valve stem (where you add air).
- Seat the Top: Place the cover against the wheel and press firmly on the top portion to engage the clips.
- Apply Even Pressure: Working your way around the cover, use the palm of your hand or a rubber mallet to tap the cover into place. You should hear and feel a series of clicks as the retaining clips snap securely onto the steel wheel rim.
- Final Check: Gently try to pull on the edges of the cover to ensure it is seated firmly and doesn't move. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step demonstration on removing and installing wheel covers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size wheel cover I need for my Contour?
The size is determined by your wheel diameter. Look at the sidewall of your tire for a series of numbers like "P185/70R14". The number immediately following the "R" is your wheel diameter in inches. In this example, you would need a 14-inch wheel cover.
Can I just leave the wheel cover off?
Yes. A missing wheel cover is purely a cosmetic issue and does not affect the safety or drivability of the vehicle in any way. It simply exposes the less attractive steel wheel underneath.
Why is my new aftermarket wheel cover loose?
Some aftermarket covers have a metal retaining ring that can be adjusted to increase tension. Look for a bend in the ring; making this bend more pronounced can help it grip the wheel tighter. However, many cheap aftermarket covers are simply made from inferior molds and will never fit as securely as an OEM part.
Will a wheel cover from a Ford Mondeo or Mercury Mystique fit my Contour?
Possibly, but it requires careful verification. The Ford Contour, Mercury Mystique, and European Ford Mondeo were all based on the same platform. While some parts are interchangeable, wheel cover designs often varied by brand and market. You must match the wheel size (e.g., 14-inch) and verify that the clip design and placement are identical.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 94BB1130CC 94BB1130GB 94BB1130GE 97BG-1130-MA 97BG-1130-MB F5RZ-1130-C F5RZ-1130-D F7RZ-1130-KA
Fits 14-inch or 15-inch steel wheels. Material: Plastic. Attachment method: Snap-on plastic clips, sometimes with a metal retaining ring.
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: