Positioning:
A full-size, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan offering comfort, durability, and V8 power.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Caprice Classic, Buick Roadmaster, and import luxury sedans.
Platform:
Built on the Ford Panther platform, shared with the Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car.
Target Audience:
Individuals seeking a comfortable, reliable, and spacious American sedan, often favored by law enforcement and taxi services due to its robust construction.
Powertrain:
Engine (4.6L V8), Cooling, Fuel Charging & Control, Accessory Drive, Starting System, Ignition, Emissions Control, Intake Air Distribution, Evaporative Emissions, Electronic Engine Controls, Automatic Transaxle/Transmission, Exhaust System, Fuel System (Tank, Lines, Acceleration/Speed Control)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front, Rear), Wheels & Tires, Driveline System (Driveshaft, Rear Drive Axle/Differential), Brake System (Hydraulic, Power, Parking, Front/Rear Disc), Steering System (Power Steering, Gear, Pump, Cooler, Ignition Lock Cylinder, Air Bag Sliding Contact, Steering Shaft, Column Switches), Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Electrical:
Climate Control, Instrument Cluster, Panel Illumination, Charging System, Entertainment System, Lighting, Module Communications Network, Anti-Theft System
Body And Paint:
Front End Panels, Body Closures, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Rear View Mirrors, Seating, Glass/Frames/Mechanisms, Instrument Panel/Console, Handles/Locks/Latches/Entry, Wipers/Washers, Bumpers, Safety Belt System, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive diagrams for Audio, Navigation, Charging, Climate Control, Seats, Cluster Illumination, Convertible Top, Cooling Fan, Electronic Engine Controls, Headlamps, Autolamps, Heated Window, Horn, Cigar Lighter, Interior Lamps, Luggage Compartment, Module Communications, Overhead Console, Parking/Rear/License Lamps, Passive Anti-Theft, Power Distribution, Power Locks/Mirrors/Windows, Remote Keyless Entry/Alarm, Reversing Lamps, Shift Interlock, Speed Control, Splice Locations, Starting System, SRS
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, lubrication, inspections, and component replacements.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, and testing procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and component tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level technical information, suitable for DIY repairs to advanced diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-3 years (depending on usage).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH or SJ)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change.
Common Problems:
Ignition coil pack failures, intake manifold gasket leaks, ABS sensor issues, rear main seal leaks, and coolant crossover pipe corrosion (particularly in earlier modular engines).
Chassis Durability:
Generally robust chassis components, but suspension bushings and ball joints may require replacement with age and mileage.