🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercury

Model:

MKZ

Year:

2012

First Generation Start:

2005

Second Generation Start:

2009

Second Generation End:

2012

Platform Code:

CD3

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Brand Perception:

Positioned as a more accessible luxury offering within the Ford/Lincoln portfolio, sharing platforms with Lincoln MKZ.

Key Competitors:

Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac DTS/XTS, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES.

Design:

Exterior styling derived from the Lincoln MKZ, offering a more American luxury aesthetic.

Powertrain Availability:

Primarily offered with a robust 3.5L V6 engine, emphasizing smooth power delivery.

Interior:

Comfortable and well-appointed cabin, aiming for a premium feel.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All Mercury MKZ 2012 models

Engine Variants Covered:

3.5L V6 Duratec

Transmission Variants Covered:

6-speed automatic (6F50/6F55)

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Digital Rights:

Unlimited usage on multiple devices, printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Automatic), Drivelines, Axles, Differentials

Chassis:

Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Steering, Suspension (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Body Electrical Systems, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Body Control Module (BCM)

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Convertible Top (if applicable)

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Scan tool procedures

Maintenance:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Belt inspections and replacement, Spark plug replacement, Air filter replacement

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), Brake pad/rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints), HVAC system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common and complex issues

Rebuilding:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Installation:

Component installation and calibration

Depth:

Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if professionally generated

Printable:

Yes, individual pages or entire manual

Binding Type:

Digital Download (not applicable to physical binding)

Paper Type:

Digital Download (not applicable to physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Duratec 35

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3496 cc)

Configuration:

V6, 60-degree bank angle

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

263 hp @ 6250 RPM

Torque:

249 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM

Induction Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (PFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ford specified Orange Long Life Coolant (US designation: Motorcraft® Yellow/Orange)

Oil Capacity:

6.0 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20

Pdm Identifier:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic (6F50/6F55)

Drive Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Optional Drive:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - if applicable for the specific MKZ model year and trim

Shift Control:

Electronic Shifter

Fluid Type:

Mercon LV (Motorcraft® XT-10-QLVC or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.0 - 10.0 quarts (8.5 - 9.5 liters) for a full drain and fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 190.4 inches (4836 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 38.6 inches (980 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 37.7 inches (958 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.0 cubic feet (425 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1680-1770 kg), depending on FWD/AWD and options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

4-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

4-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

4-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4-Star (for the 2012 model year)

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-Star (for the 2012 model year)

ABS:

Yes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Yes, Electronic Traction Control (TCS)

Stability Control:

Yes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Front seat-mounted side airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Front and rear side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available with Ford's SYNC® infotainment system, featuring voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB input.

Navigation:

Optional DVD-based or hard-drive-based navigation system with touch screen interface.

Climate Control:

Available dual-zone automatic climate control.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking sensors and rearview camera.

Adaptive Cruise Control:

Not a standard feature for this model year.

Bluetooth:

Standard on models equipped with SYNC® for hands-free calling and music streaming.

Usb Port:

Available USB port for device charging and media playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic 5W-20)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or under severe driving conditions

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 (Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend)

Coolant Specification:

Ford specification Orange coolant (Motorcraft® Prediluted Yellow/Orange)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 (Motorcraft® DOT 3 High Performance Brake Fluid)

Transmission Slipping:

Some owners have reported occasional transmission slipping or rough shifting, potentially related to fluid level or mechatronics issues. The manual will detail diagnostic steps.

Door Lock Actuator:

Failure of door lock actuators can occur. Manual provides access and replacement procedures.

Suspension Noise:

Worn sway bar links or bushings can lead to clunking noises. Manual details inspection and replacement.

HVAC Blend Door Actuator:

Failure of climate control blend door actuators can result in incorrect air temperature or airflow direction. Manual provides diagnostic and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercury Brand:

Established in 1939 by Edsel Ford, Mercury was positioned as a mid-priced brand between Ford and Lincoln.

Mkz First Gen:

Launched as the Mercury Zephyr in 2005, a rebadged Ford Fusion. Renamed Mercury Milan in 2006.

Mkz Second Gen:

Introduced for the 2009 model year, based on the Lincoln MKZ platform (CD3). Featured a more distinctive styling and a more premium interior.

Mkz 2012 Update:

The 2012 model year represents the final iteration of the Mercury MKZ before the discontinuation of the Mercury brand.

Production Plant:

Hermosillo Stamping Plant, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico (Shared with Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ)

Brand Discontinuation:

The Mercury brand was officially discontinued by Ford in late 2010/early 2011. The Mercury MKZ (2012) was among the last models produced.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jd Power Initial Quality Study:

While specific awards for the Mercury MKZ 2012 are scarce due to the brand's discontinuation, sister models like the Lincoln MKZ often received favorable ratings for initial quality and dependability in their segments.

Consumer Reports:

Historically, the MKZ received mixed reviews for predicted reliability, often rated average or below average compared to segment leaders. The manual is essential for proactive maintenance.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with U.S. Federal Emissions Standards for 2012 Model Year Vehicles.