Positioning:
The 1995 Ford Escort was a compact car positioned in a highly competitive segment, offering practicality and affordability. This manual serves the vast aftermarket and owner base seeking to maintain and repair these vehicles themselves.
Competitors:
Key competitors in 1995 included the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cavalier, and Nissan Sentra. The Escort aimed to compete on value and a comfortable ride.
Manual Selling Points:
Comprehensive A-Z coverage, factory-level accuracy, specific to the 1995 Escort model, step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams and schematics, all-in-one PDF format for easy use and printing. Unlike generic guides, this provides dealership-level technical information.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication, engine control systems (ECU/PCM), automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, drivetrain components (drive shafts, axles, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (including power steering), brake system (front and rear, including ABS if applicable), wheel and tire specifications, parking brake.
Electrical And Body:
Complete electrical system schematics, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), body control modules, airbags (Supplemental Restraint System), seat belts, interior trim, exterior body panels, doors, hood, glass, wipers, horn.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation.
Diagnostics And Repair:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, detailed repair instructions for all major components and systems, component removal and installation procedures, torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including in-depth electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams.
Compatibility:
Windows and macOS
Printable:
Yes, all pages are printable.
Image Scalability:
Images and diagrams can be blown up and printed at enlarged sizes for clarity.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format - PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format - PDF)
Engine Options:
1.9L (116 ci) OHV I4 (CVH-type - Ford's CVH engine family was prevalent in this era), potentially a 1.8L Zetec DOHC I4 in certain higher trims or European-influenced markets, though the 1.9L was most common in North America.
Horsepower 1.9L:
Approximately 88-90 HP @ 4800 RPM (depending on specific configuration and emissions controls)
Torque 1.9L:
Approximately 100-105 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
EEC-IV or EEC-V (Powertrain Control Module - PCM)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
Length:
Approx. 167.0 inches (4242 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.9 inches (1700 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.6 inches (1387 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg), varies by body style and equipment
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.0 - 13.5 cubic feet (sedan/hatchback), varies by body style
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Likely 3 or 4 stars (typical for vehicles of this era; detailed ratings can vary)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Likely 3 or 4 stars
ABS:
Available on some models, particularly higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard; Passenger-side airbag often optional or standard on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Front: 3-point automatic locking retractors. Rear: Lap belts or 3-point belts depending on seating position.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 2, 4, or 6 speakers).
Cruise Control:
Available on many models, often as an option or standard on higher trims.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for digital code reading with appropriate scan tools, though earlier OBD-II systems were less comprehensive than later ones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Use of synthetic oil may extend intervals per manufacturer recommendation, but always consult manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 1.8L Zetec engine: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or as recommended. For 1.9L CVH: Often equipped with a timing chain, which has a longer service life but may require inspection. Consult manual for specific engine timing component service.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most conditions. Refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and API classifications.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified)
Common Problems:
Examples include intermittent electrical gremlins (especially related to dashboard lights and sensors), worn out suspension components (bushings, struts), potential coolant leaks (particularly from heater cores or intake manifold gaskets), and automatic transmission shift quality issues. Exhaust system corrosion and catalytic converter issues can also be present due to age.
Ford Heritage:
Ford, a global automotive manufacturer with a long history, has consistently produced affordable and practical vehicles. The Escort line has been a staple in Ford's compact offerings for decades.
Escort Evolution 1995:
The 1995 Escort represents the sixth generation (or seventh in some nomenclatures) of the Escort. It was a significant redesign from the previous generation, featuring a more aerodynamic and rounded body style, updated interior, and improved chassis dynamics. This generation also saw the introduction of the more powerful DOHC Zetec engine in some markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America at Ford plants such as Wayne, Michigan, and Hermosillo, Mexico.
