Segment Placement:
Full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan, known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and V8 power.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Impala, Buick LeSabre/Lucerne, Chrysler 300, Ford Crown Victoria.
Defining Characteristics:
Body-on-frame construction, strong V8 engine, comfortable and quiet ride, ample interior space, traditional luxury styling.
Driver Controls:
Indicators, gauges, information display, dashboard layout, steering column controls, lighting, wipers, mirrors.
Safety Systems:
Seat belt operation and adjustment, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbag system overview, child safety seat installation and LATCH system usage.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC) system operation, audio system controls and functions, cruise control operation, power features (windows, locks, seats if applicable).
Powertrain Operation:
Engine starting and operation, transmission selection and operation (P, R, N, D, overdrive modes), engine break-in procedures.
Maintenance And Care:
Vehicle maintenance minder system, fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic underhood checks.
Emergency Procedures:
Flat tire changing procedure (jack points, spare tire location, tools), jump starting a dead battery, procedures for overheating, fuse identification and replacement.
Technical Information:
Vehicle specifications (dimensions, weights, capacities), tire information (sizes, pressures, rotation), emission control system overview.
Warranty And Customer Relations:
Overview of warranty coverage, customer assistance information, dealer service information.
Routine Maintenance:
Guidance on checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and basic visual inspections.
Operational Procedures:
Detailed instructions for using all vehicle features and controls.
Emergency Response:
Step-by-step instructions for common roadside emergencies like flat tires and dead batteries.
Depth Of Coverage:
Focuses on owner-level understanding and operation, not in-depth repair diagnostics.
Digital Format Potential:
Likely available as a PDF for digital distribution, allowing for searchability and easy access.
Print Quality:
Typically printed on durable paper with clear text and diagrams for readability.
Binding Type:
Stapled or perfect bound paperback.
Paper Type:
Standard paper stock, suitable for regular use.
Engine Type:
4.6L (281 cu in) Modular V8 (SOHC)
Engine Code:
Often referred to by its displacement or modular family.
Horsepower:
Approximately 224-239 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (varies slightly by specific calibration).
Torque:
Approximately 272-287 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (varies slightly by specific calibration).
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Model:
Often the 4R70W or similar variant.
Overdrive:
Includes Overdrive (O/D) gear for improved fuel economy and highway cruising.
Drive Modes:
P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), potentially with modes for specific conditions (e.g., '2' or 'L' for lower gears).
Length:
Approximately 209.9 inches
Width:
Approximately 78.2 inches
Height:
Approximately 57.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 114.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,900 - 4,100 lbs (depending on equipment).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2006 model year, typically for side impact). Front impact ratings can vary.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2006 model year, typically for side impact). Front impact ratings can vary.
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Not applicable for this generation as testing standards were different.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Assist (TA) system available on some models.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags may be available.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear three-point seat belts, height-adjustable front shoulder belts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for rear seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems and satellite radio (e.g., SIRIUS) may be available.
Display Features:
Instrument cluster with analog gauges and a central information display for odometer, trip computer, fuel economy, and system warnings.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system, operated via steering wheel buttons.
Auxiliary Input:
Likely no standard auxiliary audio input jack; may require aftermarket adapter.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended fluid and filter change around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as indicated by maintenance minder or severe usage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity, typically around 5 quarts).
Coolant Type:
Ford specified premium engine coolant (typically a gold-colored, long-life antifreeze/coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon V ATF or specified power steering fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings), rear air suspension (if equipped, susceptible to leaks), alternator, fuel pump, interior trim wear.
Engine Issues:
Occasionally valve cover gasket leaks, spark plug blow-out (rare on later models but a known modular engine issue), intake manifold gasket leaks (less common).
Mercury Lineage:
Part of Ford Motor Company, Mercury was positioned as a premium brand, often sharing platforms with Ford but with distinct styling and features.
Platform:
Based on the Panther platform, shared with Ford Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car.
Generation Details:
This 2006 model represents the third generation of the Grand Marquis, introduced for the 2003 model year with significant updates.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada (as part of the Ford Ontario Truck Plant operations for Panther platform vehicles).
