Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan, popular in Europe and other global markets as an affordable and economical vehicle.
Competitors:
Peugeot 205, Volkswagen Golf Mk2, Opel Kadett E, Fiat Uno, Renault Clio Mk1.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Later models (Mk3) introduced more aerodynamic styling and improved safety features.
Target Audience:
First-time car buyers, young drivers, budget-conscious consumers, and those seeking economical urban transport.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair Procedures
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific manual edition, typically 300-600 pages for comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely comb-bound or saddle-stitched for durability)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (carburetor/early EFI).
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (4 & 5-speed), clutch system, CV joints, driveshafts, differentials.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear beam axle with semi-elliptic springs, shock absorbers, bushings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering (manual or power assisted), steering column, linkage.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, basic wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, seating.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt inspections/replacements, brake pad/shoe replacement, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Repair:
Engine tune-ups, head gasket replacement, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, wiring harness repair.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostic troubleshooting.
Digital Format Quality:
N/A (assuming print)
Print Type:
Black and white with line drawings and diagrams. Potential for some black and white photographic illustrations depending on the publisher.
Binding:
Likely comb-bound, spiral-bound, or saddle-stitched for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
Durable paper stock, often thicker than standard copier paper, designed to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Codes:
HCS (High Compression Seven Main Bearing), CVH (Compound Valve Hemispherical).
Common Displacements:
1.0L (997cc), 1.1L (1119cc), 1.3L (1297cc), 1.4L (1397cc), 1.6L (1597cc, including CVH).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 45 hp to 90 hp, depending on engine size and specification (e.g., XR2 model).
Torque Range:
Approximately 75 Nm to 130 Nm.
Carburetion:
Single-barrel or two-barrel carburetors (e.g., Motorcraft, Weber) for most engines.
Injection:
Early Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) became available on some higher-performance or later models (e.g., 1.6i).
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Type:
Distributor-based, breakerless ignition with electronic control unit (ECU) on EFI models.
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission was standard on base models.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission was widely available. A 3-speed automatic transmission was also an option on some models.
Clutch:
Dry single-plate clutch, hydraulically or cable-operated depending on year/model.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each transmission variant and engine combination would be detailed in the manual.
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 3-door van (commercial variant).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2386 mm (93.9 inches).
Length:
Approximately 3750 mm (147.6 inches) for hatchback.
Width:
Approximately 1600 mm (63 inches).
Height:
Approximately 1380 mm (54.3 inches).
Curb Weight:
Ranging from approximately 800 kg to 950 kg (1760 lbs to 2090 lbs), depending on engine and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1300-1400 kg.
Crash Test Data:
Limited formal crash test data from modern safety agencies for this era. Euro NCAP did not exist in its current form. The Mk3 introduced more safety-conscious design compared to the Mk2.
Brakes:
Standard front disc, rear drum brakes. Optional front ventilated discs on higher trims. No ABS typically available in this period.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts. Lap belts often standard in rear, with three-point belts becoming optional or standard on later/higher trims.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column for improved occupant safety in frontal impacts.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Optional upgraded stereo systems with more speakers.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, etc.
Availability:
Very limited. No electronic driver aids like ABS, traction control, or airbags were standard or widely available during this period.
Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.).
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG service classification. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40. Consult manual for specific engine and temperature range.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (green type) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Automatic: MERCON or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.
Rust:
Common issue for vehicles of this age, especially in areas with road salt. Wheel arches, sills, and floor pans are susceptible.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become gummed up with age, leading to rough idling, poor fuel economy, and starting problems. Rebuilding or replacing is often necessary.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear out, leading to vague steering and clunking noises.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring, corroded connectors, and failing grounds can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Exhaust Systems:
Rust and corrosion can affect exhaust pipes, mufflers, and catalytic converters.
Ford History:
Ford Motor Company, a major American automaker, has a long history of producing reliable and popular vehicles, particularly known for its trucks and affordable cars.
Mk2 Fiesta:
Introduced in 1976, the Mk1 Fiesta was a groundbreaking front-wheel-drive supermini for Ford of Europe. The Mk2 (1983-1989) was an evolution with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and revised interiors.
Mk3 Fiesta:
The Mk3 Fiesta (1989-1997) represented a more significant redesign, with a completely new platform, improved ride and handling, and enhanced safety features. This manual likely focuses on the latter part of the Mk2 and potentially early Mk3 development, given the 1983-1989 span.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Europe (e.g., Dagenham, UK; Valencia, Spain; Cologne, Germany).
Sales Performance:
The Fiesta was a strong seller in its segment across Europe throughout its early generations, known for its value for money and driving characteristics.
