🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Tempo

Year:

1979-1986

Generation Designation:

First Generation

Platform:

Mazda GD Platform (shared with Mercury Topaz)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Aimed at both the DIY enthusiast with basic mechanical aptitude and independent automotive service professionals. Also provides valuable information for owners who prefer to understand their vehicle's maintenance and repair needs for better communication with technicians.

Competitive Analysis:

This manual offers the same level of detail and technical specifications as official dealership service manuals, providing a cost-effective alternative for owners and independent shops seeking authentic repair information. Its comprehensive nature addresses common issues and advanced diagnostics.

Key Features:

Instant PDF download, comprehensive coverage of all major systems, detailed troubleshooting guides, specific torque settings, wiring diagrams, language accessibility (Spanish), suitability for various digital devices.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Info, Engine Service and Overhauling, Transmission, Chassis, Body, Wiring, Fuel System, Emission Control, Induction, Mechanical, Control System, Transmission and Differentials, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Steering and Suspension, Brakes, ABS, Full Specifications and Torque Settings, Service Work.

Page Count:

Not Specified (typical for digital manuals, extensive coverage implied by detailed content list)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

Spanish

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and control, Fuel delivery and emissions, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, differentials), Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (including ABS), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, components, lighting), Body and interior, Climate control.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Engine diagnostics and repair (overhauling, timing belt/chain, component replacement), Transmission service and repair, Brake system maintenance and repair, Suspension and steering alignment and component replacement, Electrical system troubleshooting, Bodywork repair guidance, Emission control system diagnosis and repair, Fuel system servicing, HVAC system diagnosis and repair.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic owner maintenance to advanced diagnostics and overhauling procedures, including torque specifications and detailed repair steps. Mimics authorized dealer service department information.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Digital, allowing for high-resolution printing of individual pages. Quality subject to original scan/creation.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

1.9L (OHC), 2.0L (OHC), 2.3L (OHC, some later models may have had 2.3L as primary)

Displacement Hp Torque:

1.9L: Approx. 88-90 hp; 2.0L: Approx. 94-105 hp; 2.3L: Approx. 95-100 hp. Torque figures vary by year and specific engine variant. (Specific figures detailed within the manual.)

Fuel System Types:

Carbureted (early models, e.g., 1.9L, 2.0L) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for later models and larger engines.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Options:

Likely a 4-speed manual transmission for base models. (Specifics would be detailed in the manual).

Optional Transmission Options:

3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ATX - Automatic Transaxle) was a common option.

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration. Manual covers clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, and automatic transmission control and repair.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback/wagon (GL, GLX trims).

Seating Capacity:

Typically seats 5 occupants.

Cargo Space:

Varies by body style; hatchback/wagon models offer significantly more cargo capacity than sedans.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,500 - 2,800 lbs (1134 - 1270 kg) depending on engine and equipment. (Specifics in manual).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Vehicle safety standards of the era (1979-1986). NHTSA ratings were less standardized then. Manual will detail passive restraint systems (seatbelts) and basic structural integrity.

Active Safety Features:

Power assisted brakes, optional power steering, standard safety glass. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may have been an option on higher trims or later models, detailed in the manual if present.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (front and rear), energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces, side-impact door beams (introduced during this period).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Power windows and locks were optional on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Very limited by modern standards. Focus on mechanical systems and basic electrical diagnostics rather than advanced electronic driver aids.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Manual details basic electrical connectivity for vehicle systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Typical Service Intervals:

Oil changes: 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months. Air filter: 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km). Spark plugs: 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Timing belt (if applicable for specific engines): 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km). Detailed schedule provided in manual.

Fluid Recommendations:

Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for exact API service rating). Coolant: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Transmission Fluid (Automatic): MERCON V or equivalent. Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Power Steering Fluid: FORD ESP-M2C166-H or equivalent. (Specific part numbers and capacities are detailed within the manual.)

Common Wear And Tear Items:

Radiator leaks, alternator failures, starter motor issues, ignition coil problems, carburetor issues (on older models), fuel pump problems, CV joint wear, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), exhaust system corrosion.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Context:

The Ford Tempo was part of Ford's strategy to compete in the growing compact and mid-size car segments, particularly in the North American market, often sharing platforms and powertrains with Mazda vehicles due to Ford's investment in the Japanese automaker.

Model Evolution Summary:

Introduced in 1983 for the 1984 model year, the Tempo replaced the Ford Fairmont. It was built on the Mazda GD platform and was also sold as the Mercury Topaz. The Tempo received minor updates and facelifts throughout its production run, ending in 1987 for the 1988 model year.

Production Years:

1984-1987 (covering the 1979-1986 model years as specified in the product title, likely encompassing all production variants sold within this timeframe).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognitions:

No significant industry awards or recognitions are widely cited for the Ford Tempo. Its market positioning was primarily as a practical, affordable commuter vehicle.