Segment:
Subcompact, economy car
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Excel
Design Origin:
Based on the Mazda 121 (DB platform), indicating shared engineering and components.
Value Proposition:
Affordable, fuel-efficient, and practical transportation with a focus on simplicity and reliability, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and first-time car owners.
Manual Benefit:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the detailed technical information required for efficient and accurate repair and maintenance, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Driveline, Steering, Suspension (Front and Rear), Brakes (Front and Rear), Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Instruments, Body), HVAC, Body and Chassis, Interior, Exterior Trim, Diagnosis and Troubleshooting
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed breakdown, assembly, and repair procedures for engine components (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belt, etc.), including valve timing and clearances.
Fuel And Emissions:
Information on fuel injection systems (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, evaporative emission control system, and catalytic converter.
Cooling And Lubrication:
Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, and lubrication system diagrams.
Ignition System:
Details on ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), and electronic control unit (ECU) related ignition functions.
Transmission Manual:
Complete procedures for removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and installation of the manual transmission, including gear selection and clutch linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Procedures for removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and installation of the automatic transmission, including torque converter and shift linkage.
Driveline And Axles:
Covers drive shafts, CV joints, differential, and wheel bearings for front-wheel drive systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, springs), power steering system (if equipped), and steering linkage.
Brake System:
Covers disc brake systems (front and rear), drum brakes (rear), master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, and parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrument cluster, and power windows/locks.
HVAC System:
Covers air conditioning system components, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, and refrigerant charging procedures.
Body And Chassis:
Instructions for body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, bumpers, and general chassis components.
Interior Trim:
Procedures for removing and installing interior components such as seats, dashboard, door panels, and headliner.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake inspections, and tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems, with symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for the disassembly, repair, and reassembly of major components and systems, including engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.
Installation And Removal:
Comprehensive guidance on removing and installing virtually every component and system on the vehicle.
Adjustments:
Specific instructions for adjustments such as ignition timing, idle speed, clutch engagement, and brake pedal free play.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from bumper to bumper, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and technical specifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, due to the interference nature of some engine designs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SF or SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for ambient temperature suitability)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters (3.7 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Common Problems:
Rust/corrosion (especially on wheel wells and rocker panels), worn suspension bushings, minor electrical gremlins (e.g., dashboard lights), carburetor issues (on carbureted models), clutch wear, potential for radiator leaks.
Ford Philosophy:
Ford's strategy during this period included offering a range of vehicles, from performance-oriented Mustangs to economical compacts like the Festiva, often through badge engineering or joint ventures to meet market demands efficiently.
Festiva Origin:
The Ford Festiva was a result of Ford's collaboration with Mazda. It was essentially a rebadged version of the Mazda 121 (DA platform), manufactured in South Korea by Kia. This approach allowed Ford to quickly introduce a subcompact vehicle to the North American market.
Design Updates:
Minor styling updates occurred throughout its production run, including changes to grilles, headlights, and interior trim, but the fundamental platform remained consistent.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (by Kia)
Production Years:
1986-1993 (globally for Mazda 121/Festiva), 1988-1993 (North American market Festiva)
