Market Position:
The Mercury MKS was positioned as a flagship full-size sedan, offering premium features and comfort for its era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other full-size sedans from domestic and international manufacturers, emphasizing a comfortable ride and spacious interior.
Key Features:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior, available all-wheel drive, V6 engine options, advanced technology features for its time.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent repair shops to perform maintenance and repairs accurately, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnostics, overhaul, assembly, disassembly, performance tuning, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, emission controls
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 6F50/6F55) diagnostics, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, torque converter, electronic controls
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials, axle bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, traction control, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, bleeding procedures, hydraulic component testing
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, coil springs, sway bars, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, power steering pump, fluid specifications, steering linkage, column
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, power distribution, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, climate control module, blower motor, troubleshooting
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, bumpers, body repairs, rust prevention, panel alignment
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, safety sensors, diagnostic procedures
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation, climate control interface, driver information center, switches, sensors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation), brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Repair:
Component removal, installation, replacement, troubleshooting, diagnostics, rebuilds
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, mechanical diagnostics
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, scanner usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, module programming
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)
Engine Options:
3.7L V6 Ti-VCT (Duratec 37), 3.5L V6 EcoBoost Twin-Turbo (for performance models like MKS EcoBoost)
3.7L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 304 hp @ 6500 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
Approximately 277 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.5L Ecoboost V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 365 hp @ 5500 rpm
3.5L Ecoboost V6 Torque:
Approximately 350 lb-ft @ 1500-5250 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Management System:
Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM), likely a Siemens or similar OEM supplier
Infotainment System:
SYNC® infotainment system with voice recognition, touchscreen interface, optional navigation system, premium audio options (e.g., Sony®)
Driver Assistance Features:
Available Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®), rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth® for phone and audio streaming, USB ports, SD card reader
Lighting Technology:
HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights, LED taillights
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend or synthetic oil)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic Motor Oil (meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-A)
Coolant Type:
Ford Ultimate Engine Coolant (VC-3DIL-B) or equivalent (typically a HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) orange coolant
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) for 3.7L V6, 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) for 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (with filter)
Known Issues:
Potential issues include water pump leaks (especially on early models), steering rack issues, and occasional transmission control module (TCM) glitches. Some owners report calibration issues with adaptive cruise control sensors.