🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercury

Model:

Grand Marquis

Year:

1996

Platform:

Panther Platform (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis was positioned as a full-size, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan, emphasizing comfort, quiet ride, and traditional American styling. It competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Caprice, Buick Roadmaster, and Chrysler New Yorker.

Competitive Analysis:

The Grand Marquis offered a robust chassis and a large V8 engine, appealing to buyers seeking substantial American luxury and a smooth, powerful driving experience. Its long wheelbase contributed to a comfortable ride.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel-drive, V8 engine, spacious interior, smooth ride, traditional body-on-frame construction, emphasis on comfort and quietness.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive repair and service information for the 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis.

Page Count:

Digital (estimated based on typical factory service manuals, hundreds of pages).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software / Web-based Access

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Body, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Emissions Control.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting diagnostics, component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuilding procedures, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Technical Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based access, no specific file format like PDF mentioned beyond online access.

Print Quality:

N/A (digital format, printability dependent on user's browser and printer).

Binding Type:

N/A (digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.6L SOHC V8 (Modular)

Horsepower:

215 hp @ 4600 rpm

Torque:

290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Engine Code:

P (for 4.6L SOHC)

Bore X Stroke:

3.55 in x 3.54 in (90.2 mm x 90 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Overdrive (4R70W)

Optional Transmission:

None for 1996 Grand Marquis

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

114.7 inches (2913 mm)

Overall Length:

213.4 inches (5420 mm)

Overall Width:

78.2 inches (1986 mm)

Overall Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

4,100 - 4,200 lbs (approximate, depending on options)

Trunk Capacity:

20.6 cubic feet (approximate)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not rated comprehensively by modern standards. Older vehicles had less rigorous testing.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Not rated comprehensively by modern standards.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, rear door child safety locks.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Power antenna.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (Basic for the era, no modern connectivity like Bluetooth or USB).

Comfort Features:

Power adjustable front seats, power windows, power door locks, tilt steering wheel, automatic climate control (optional on some trims).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, or as per manual recommendation, especially if towing.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation for ambient temperature).

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Mercon V (check manual for exact specification for 4R70W).

Known Issues:

Timing chain guides/tensioners on 4.6L engine can wear, leading to rattling noise. PI (Performance Improved) intake manifold gaskets are prone to leaking. Air suspension (if equipped) can develop leaks. Coil-on-plug ignition system failures. Rear axle seal leaks.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Motorcraft FL-820-S or equivalent.

Air Filter Part Number:

Motorcraft FA-1275 or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercury was established by Ford in 1939 as a mid-priced brand, bridging the gap between Ford and Lincoln. It was known for offering stylish, comfortable vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The Grand Marquis nameplate originated on the Mercury Marquis. The 1996 model is part of the third generation of the Grand Marquis, built on the Panther platform, which also underpinned the Ford Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car. This generation saw significant updates and refined styling.

Production Location:

St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada and Chicago, Illinois, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1996 model are not prominently documented, the Panther platform vehicles were generally praised for their durability and comfortable ride, often favored by law enforcement and taxi fleets.