Positioning:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan and Wagon, positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle within the Ford family.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Dodge Neon, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla
Unique Selling Points:
Offered with FWD and optional AWD (in later models), comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, efficient engines.
Engine:
2.3L HEFI (OHC), 3.0L Vulcan EFI (OHV)
Fuel System:
EFI, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Pressure Regulator
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (TFI Module), Spark Plugs, Coil Pack
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses, Fan Clutch
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes, Manifolds
Transmission Manual:
MT5 AXODE (Automatic Overdrive with Manual Control)
Transmission Automatic:
ATX (Automatic Transaxle)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive, CV Axles, Differential
Suspension Front:
MacPherson Struts, Control Arms, Ball Joints, Sway Bar
Suspension Rear:
Trailing Arms, Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers, Panhard Rod
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion, Steering Column, Linkage
Brakes Front:
Vented Disc Brakes
Brakes System:
Master Cylinder, Power Booster, Lines, Parking Brake
Electrical System:
12V Battery, Alternator, Starter, Fuses, Relays
Lighting System:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights, Bulbs
Body Exterior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass
Body Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Carpeting, Seatbelts
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser, Blower)
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Electrical Schematics for All Systems
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks, Tune-ups, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Adjustments, Rebuild Procedures
Diagnostics:
Engine Performance Diagnostics, Electrical System Diagnostics, HVAC System Diagnostics
Alignment:
Front and Rear Wheel Alignment Specifications and Procedures
Depth:
Factory-Level Detail, Suitable for Professional Technicians and Advanced DIYers
2.3L Hefi:
2.3 Liter Inline-4, Overhead Cam (OHC), 100 hp @ 4600 rpm, 135 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
3.0L Vulcan:
3.0 Liter V6, Overhead Valve (OHV), 140 hp @ 4800 rpm, 165 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower Range:
100-140 hp
Torque Range:
135-165 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point for 3.0L, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.3L
Required Octane:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
2.3L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
3.0L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Recommendation:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (consult manual for temperature variations)
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (recommend using synthetic for longer intervals).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) depending on plug type.
Transmission Fluid:
Change ATX fluid and filter every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Ford Premium Engine Coolant or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to vibration and clunking noises.
Radiator Leaks:
Common for original radiators to develop leaks or become clogged.
Automatic Transmission:
ATX can be prone to hesitation or slipping if not maintained properly.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in various electrical harnesses can cause intermittent issues.
Exhaust Leaks:
Gaskets and pipe sections can rust and develop leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear out, affecting ride and handling.
Mercury Legacy:
Mercury was Ford's 'near-luxury' division, known for stylish yet accessible vehicles.
Generation:
Second Generation (1985-1990), facelifted in 1988 with updated styling and mechanical improvements.
Manufacturing Plant:
Oakville Assembly, Oakville, Ontario, Canada; St. Thomas Assembly, Talbotville, Ontario, Canada
