Segment:
Mid-size family car
Market Competitors 1998:
Volkswagen Passat, Opel Vectra (Vauxhall Vectra in UK), Peugeot 406, Renault Laguna, Toyota Avensis, Honda Accord.
Design Philosophy:
The Mk II Mondeo offered a significant refinement over its predecessor, focusing on improved build quality, comfort, and driving dynamics, aligning with Ford's European market strategy.
Body Styles:
Available as a 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and estate (wagon).
Target Audience:
Families and business users seeking a comfortable, reliable, and practical European-designed car.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, and lubrication system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), starter motor, alternator, battery, sensors (Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position, O2, MAP, etc.), ECU operation and diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanism, differential unit.
Transmission Automatic:
ATF specifications, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control systems, electronic control unit (ECU) for automatic transmission.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, drive shafts, differential.
Suspension:
Front McPherson struts, rear multi-link independent suspension, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses, fluid), steering column, steering wheel.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (or drums on some variants), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (components and diagnostics), brake fluid specifications.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, bumper systems, underbody coating, structural repair considerations.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C) system components, refrigerant, operation, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, central locking, horn, wipers, mirrors, accessory circuits.
Body Electrical:
Instrument cluster, warning lights, switches, relays, fuses, Body Control Module (BCM) if applicable.
Emissions System:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including catalytic converters and EVAP.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics using wiring diagrams.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Rebuild:
Engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, alternator rebuild, starter motor rebuild.
Installation:
Installation of replacement parts and components.
Adjustment:
Adjustment of parking brake, clutch linkage (if applicable), headlight aim.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Comprehensive troubleshooting trees and guides for various common and uncommon issues.
Diagnostics Codes:
Explanation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and diagnostic scan tool procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Wiring Diagrams:
Extensive, detailed wiring diagrams covering all electrical systems and components, essential for diagnosing faults.
Engine Variants 1998:
Commonly featured Zetec-R inline-4 gasoline engines (e.g., 1.8L, 2.0L) and Duratorq TDCi diesel engines (e.g., 2.0L).
Typical Horsepower 2.0L Gasoline:
Approximately 130 PS (128 hp; 96 kW) for the 2.0L Zetec-R.
Typical Torque 2.0L Gasoline:
Around 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) for the 2.0L Zetec-R.
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).
Diesel Engine Variants:
Commonly included 1.8L TD (Turbo Diesel) and 2.0L TDDI/TDCi engines, though TDCi was more prevalent in later models/facelifts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, subject to driving conditions. Check manual for specific interval.
Timing Belt Interval:
For Zetec engines with timing belts, replacement is critical around 60,000-80,000 miles (96,000-128,000 km) or 5-6 years. Critical failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on climate. Refer to manual for precise specification like Ford WSS-M2C913-A/B.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a silicate-free OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type or a Ford-specific Long Life Coolant (e.g., Motorcraft Premium Gold).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent. Specific Mercon specification is crucial for longevity. (Check manual for exact type).
Common Problems 1:
Corrosion on wheel arches, sills, and rear suspension mounting points. Worn front suspension components (bushings, drop links).
Common Problems 2:
Rear wheel bearing failures, intermittent electrical issues (often related to door wiring looms or central locking), radiator leaks.
Common Problems 3:
Catalytic converter failure, early diesel engines (TD) could have injector issues.