Original Market Position:
Budget-friendly, fuel-efficient subcompact, often competing with vehicles from Japanese manufacturers.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Excel, Yugo Sana.
Value Proposition:
Affordable transportation, good fuel economy, practical for city driving.
Software Advantage:
Convenient online access, instant availability, potentially more up-to-date than old print manuals.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Specific Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Maintenance
Estimated Pages:
N/A (Online Software)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-Based Access
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, assembly, and adjustment procedures for all engine components.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, starting and charging system, fuel injection system diagnostics.
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual transmission, including clutch operation and driveline components.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, including hydraulic components, disc/drum inspection and replacement.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component service, alignment procedures, steering system diagnosis and repair.
Heating Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, component service, refrigerant handling (where applicable).
Body Interior:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door and latch mechanisms.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection and repair, torque specifications for chassis components.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable, electrical system testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, adjustments, and system overhauls.
Rebuilding Instructions:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine components, transmissions, and other major assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and system overhauls.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, and professional technicians.
Access Method:
Web browser via internet connection
Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet
Print Ability:
Likely printable (user-dependent on platform)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital)
License Type:
One-Year Access
Data Source:
Licensed OE (Original Equipment) Materials
Length:
Approx. 3760 mm (148.0 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1600 mm (63.0 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1385 mm (54.5 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2305 mm (90.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 800-900 kg (1760-1980 lbs), varies by trim and options.
NHTSA Rating:
N/A (Not extensively tested or rated by NHTSA in current formats for this era)
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes
Seat Belts:
Front three-point seat belts, rear lap belts.
Airbags:
Driver airbag not standard on all models; passenger airbag generally not available.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Limited speaker configurations.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was generally not available on this model.
Cruise Control:
Typically not standard or widely available.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; basic vehicle functions only.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial; typically every 60,000 miles or 4-5 years, as failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Common Problems:
Rust/corrosion on body panels and suspension components, wear in suspension bushings, potential carburetor issues (on older variants), minor electrical gremlins.
Timing Belt Maintenance Criticality:
The B3 engine is an interference engine; timely replacement of the timing belt is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Ford Global Strategy:
Ford collaborated with Mazda for several small car platforms, including the Festiva, to compete globally in the subcompact segment.
First Generation:
Introduced in 1986 globally (based on Mazda 121/Autozam Savanna), with Ford branding in many markets. The 1991 model is part of this first generation, which continued until 1993 in North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily South Korea (Kia Motors) and Australia, assembled from Mazda components.
