Segment:
Executive Car / Large Family Car
Key Competitors:
Vauxhall Carlton/Opel Senator, Peugeot 605, Citroën XM, BMW 5 Series (E28/E34), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124)
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic, European styling, advanced (for its time) features.
Geographical Coverage:
Primarily European Market
Model Variants Covered:
All Hatchback and Estate models within the specified year range.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive service manuals.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Drivetrain
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Starting & Charging System, Instrument Cluster, Body Electronics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Exterior Trim
Emission Control:
Information on emission control systems, catalytic converters, and related diagnostics.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, repair, and refrigerant handling.
Safety Systems:
Coverage of ABS system components, diagnostics, and service procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, common fault identification
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components
Overhaul And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major components, from spark plugs to engine assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures may include reference to basic diagnostic tools and techniques relevant to the era, e.g., using a multimeter, checking for spark and fuel delivery.
Engine Families:
Ford Pinto (OHC Inline-4), Ford Cologne (V6), Cosworth YB (Turbocharged Inline-4)
Inline 4 Performance:
Typically 2.0L (OHC) producing around 100-125 hp, 2.0L DOHC (16V) around 130-145 hp, 2.0L Turbo (Cosworth) around 200-220 hp.
V6 Performance:
2.8L V6 producing around 135-150 hp, later 2.9L V6 producing around 145-160 hp.
Injection Type:
Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic, EFi, EEC-IV/V control for later models)
Diesel Engines:
Availability of diesel engines (e.g., 2.5L Turbo Diesel) should be confirmed based on specific market and year, covered in manual if applicable.
Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many models, driver airbag standard on later models.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. ABS system widely adopted during production run.
Restraints:
Seatbelts (front, often with pretensioners), optional driver airbag.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radios with cassette players, some higher trims featured upgraded sound systems. Optional CD players later in production.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a significant technological feature offered as an option and standard on higher trims later in the model's life.
Early Features:
Central locking, electric windows (often as standard or optional), optional electric sunroof, trip computer on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific model year/engine).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For OHC and DOHC engines, usually recommended every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Critical to follow manual for belt-driven engines.
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-30, 10W-40, or 15W-40 depending on climate and engine. Refer to manual for exact specs.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford specification may vary, consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Ford ESW-M2C33F/G or Mercon for automatic transmissions. Manual gearbox oil specification varies by type, typically GL-4 or GL-5.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system specification. Crucial to use the correct type for ABS compatibility.
Electrical Problems:
Corrosion in wiring connectors, intermittent issues with dashboard lights and central locking, particularly on earlier models.
Engine Component Wear:
Head gasket issues on some early 2.8 V6 engines, timing chain rattle on some high-mileage 2.9 V6, potential for cylinder head failure on early DOHC engines if overheated.
Suspension And Steering:
Wear in front suspension bushings, steering rack wear leading to play, rear self-levelling suspension (if fitted) can leak.
Chassis Component Wear:
Corrosion on bodywork and chassis components, especially in areas exposed to road salt, is a common concern for vehicles of this age.
Ford Europe:
Built on Ford of Europe's reputation for producing well-engineered, mass-market vehicles.
Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift in 1990, with updated styling, interior, and revised engine options, often referred to as the Series 2.
Trim Levels:
Range included base models, Ghia (luxury), and later performance variants like the Scorpio Ultima and Cosworth models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Saarlouis, Germany, and Valencia, Spain.
