Market Position:
The Mercury Mystique was positioned as a mid-size sedan, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability within the Mercury lineup, a marque known for its distinct styling and upscale appeal.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against domestic and import mid-size sedans such as the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima. The Mystique aimed to differentiate itself through its European styling cues (being based on the Mazda GF platform) and a focus on a refined driving experience.
Key Features:
Stylish exterior design influenced by European sedans, comfortable interior, available with multiple engine options, front-wheel drive, focus on ride quality and quietness.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to save significant money by performing their own repairs and maintenance.
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Coverage Areas:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types
Format:
Downloadable (PDF)
Delivery Method:
Instant email delivery upon payment confirmation.
Licensing Terms:
Downloadable manual is yours to keep forever, with the ability to print.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System, ABS, Body Structure, Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Lighting System, Safety Restraint System (Airbags), Instrument Cluster, Emissions Control System, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Torque Specifications, Lubrication Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Reassembly Instructions, Troubleshooting Common Issues, Overhaul Procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive A-Z repair and service procedures, from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and diagnostics.
Repair Focus:
Step-by-step instructions with pictures on all areas of servicing and repairs, designed to make DIY repairs easy.
Engine Options 1997:
2.0L Zetec DOHC I4, 2.5L Duratec V6
Horsepower 2.0L:
125 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.5L:
170 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
162 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Recommended for 2.0L), 87 Octane (Recommended for 2.5L)
Engine Code 2.0L Zetec:
Zetec-R
Engine Code 2.5L Duratec:
Duratec VE
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Available on some 2.0L models)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (AX4S/AX4N)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, Lock-up torque converter
Drivetrain Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, side-impact door beams
Infotainment Features 1997:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features 1997:
Limited to available ABS on some models. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems.
Connectivity Features 1997:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Optional power windows and locks.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic blend or conventional oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L Zetec:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L Duratec:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type 2.0L And 2.5L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, or SJ)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Pink) or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MERCON Power Steering Fluid
Clutch Fluid Type Manual:
DOT 3
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water/Washer Fluid Mixture
Known Issues 1997 Mystique:
Common issues can include occasional transmission shifting problems (especially in older automatics), potential for coolant leaks from hoses or the water pump, and minor electrical gremlins. The Zetec engine can be prone to intake manifold gasket leaks if not maintained. EGR valve issues are also noted.
Brand Heritage Mercury:
Mercury was established by Ford in 1938 as a premium brand positioned between Ford and Lincoln, aiming to offer stylish and modern vehicles with a touch of luxury.
Model Evolution Mystique:
The Mercury Mystique was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Mercury Topaz. It was part of Ford's move to global platforms, sharing its underpinnings with the European Ford Mondeo and the Mazda Capella/Cronos. This generation ran from 1995-2000.
Production Locations 1997:
Hermosillo, Mexico (Ford's AutoAero plant)
