Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Brand Perception:
Comfort-oriented, spacious, value-focused sibling to the Ford Taurus.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Impala, Buick LeSabre, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Interior Space:
Generous passenger room and trunk capacity, particularly in wagon form.
Ride Comfort:
Soft suspension tuning prioritized for a comfortable, isolating ride.
Digital Access:
Provides quick search and navigation capabilities not found in printed manuals.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications
Type:
Digital Service Manual Software
Format:
Proprietary Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable archive)
Powertrain:
Engine (Vulcan, Duratec), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (AX4S, AX4N)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Drivetrain (FWD), Brakes (ABS)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System, Body Control Modules
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Glass, Seats, Doors, Hood, Trunk
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Rebuild/Replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, heads, etc.), Transmission Overhaul/Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnosis, Component Testing
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Scan Tool Procedures, Sensor Data Interpretation, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type Primary:
3.0L OHV V6 (Vulcan)
Displacement Primary:
182 cu in (2986 cc)
Bore X Stroke Primary:
3.52 in x 3.15 in (89.4 mm x 80.0 mm)
Compression Ratio Primary:
9.3:1
Horsepower Primary:
150 hp @ 4900 rpm (est.)
Torque Primary:
178 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (est.)
Engine Type Optional:
3.0L DOHC V6 (Duratec)
Displacement Optional:
182 cu in (2986 cc)
Compression Ratio Optional:
10.0:1
Horsepower Optional:
200 hp @ 5750 rpm (est.)
Torque Optional:
200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (est.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommended:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic (AX4S/AX4N)
Drive Wheels Standard:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A for 2001 model year
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for AX4N (dry fill)
NHTSA Driver Front Crash:
4/5 Stars (for 1998-2004 models tested)
NHTSA Passenger Front Crash:
4/5 Stars (for 1998-2004 models tested)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, Optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Front height-adjustable three-point seat belts, Rear three-point seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Vulcan:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement Duratec:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 - 75,000 miles (80,000 - 120,000 km), or earlier under severe driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 3.0L Vulcan, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.0L Duratec (with filter).
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Vulcan Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, occasional head gasket issues.
Duratec Engine Issues:
Less prone to oil leaks than Vulcan; timing chain wear can occur with high mileage.
Transmission Issues:
AX4S/AX4N transmissions can experience torque converter shudder or failure, solenoid issues, and fluid leaks.
Suspension Issues:
Worn sway bar links, control arm bushings, and strut mounts due to soft suspension tuning.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator problems, intermittent dash light issues.
Mercury Legacy:
Ford's mid-tier brand, positioned between Ford and Lincoln, known for comfortable and stylish vehicles.
Sable Generations:
First generation: 1986-1991, Second generation: 1992-1995, Third generation: 1996-2005 (this generation includes the 2001 model).
Platform Sharing:
Shared the CDW27 platform with the Ford Taurus, Mercury Mystique, and Ford Contour.
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Period Generation:
1996-2005
