'97 Contour GL, 2.0L, Manual, 4-Cyl, 140,000mi

Here is my list of what I notice is wrong with my 1997 Ford Contour GL Sport, 2.0L, 4-Cyl...

-Check Engine Light is on.

-Brakes - Hard to push/stop, no sounds/squeeking, possibly air in system, maybe needs bleed/flush?, What would have caused air in the system?

-Hoses under the hood - some are damaged, may have gotten too hot & burned/melted, Why is the engine getting so hot?

-Vacuum - airy noise from under the hood, Possibly how air got in the brakes?

-Thermostat / Temp Gague - I don't think the gague is working.

-Idoling at inconsistant RPMs.

-Acceleration - Rattle/vibration under front end of car when accelerating, Slow / Lack of Power.



Any suggestions?

kimberlyt2003@hotmail.com