Target Audience:
Families, commuters, budget-conscious buyers.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, practical design, solid build quality for its class.
Design Philosophy:
Global C1 platform, offering a balance of ride comfort and handling.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management, variable cam timing (VCT).
Transmission Systems:
Manual transaxle (MTA), Automatic transaxle (4F27E), clutch, driveline, axles, driveshafts.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD, hydraulic systems, parking brake.
Steering Suspension:
Power rack and pinion steering, front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), chassis electronics, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, exterior trim, bumpers, glass.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control, refrigerant service, components.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, passive safety components.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System diagnostics, fault code lookup, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematic analysis.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions.
Alignment And Calibration:
Wheel alignment procedures and specifications, steering system calibration.
Depth Level:
Factory level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Specification Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and diagnostic parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc ABS on most models)
Traction Control:
Optional (Electronic Traction Assist)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on trim), side curtain airbags (optional).
Seatbelts:
3-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Ford SYNC (optional, voice-activated communications and entertainment system), SiriusXM Satellite Radio (optional).
Display:
CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, optional navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard on most trims.
Bluetooth:
Available with SYNC system.
Usb Port:
Available with SYNC system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend oil and proper driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under severe driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 meeting Ford specification WSS-M6C62-A
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C202-B4
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine and transmission mounts can lead to vibration and noise.
Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions (4F27E) can experience shifting problems or solenoid failures.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings, sway bar links, and struts can occur over time.
Cabin Air Filter Location:
Often located behind the glove box, requiring its removal for access.
