Target Audience:
Ford Sierra owners seeking to perform their own repairs and maintenance, saving costs and ensuring quality.
Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size family car, competing with models like the Volkswagen Passat, Vauxhall/Opel Cavalier, and Peugeot 405.
Value Proposition:
Offers a cost-effective and convenient alternative to professional mechanic services, empowering owners with in-depth knowledge.
Accessibility:
Instant download for immediate access, enabling repairs anytime, anywhere.
Engine Service:
Comprehensive (Disassembly, Reassembly, Overhaul, Tuning)
Transmission Service:
Manual and Automatic Transmission Repair
Brake System:
Hydraulic System, Components, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Troubleshooting
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Alignment
Steering:
Steering Gear, Power Steering System
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Carburetor (where applicable), Fuel Lines
Emission Control:
Emission Systems, Catalytic Converter, EGR
Chassis Body:
Body repairs, welding, panel replacement, glass fitting, interior trim removal and installation.
Restraint System:
Seat Belts, Airbag Systems (if equipped)
Axle Drive:
Front and Rear Axles, Drivetrain Components
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of EFI systems, ignition timing, sensors.
Wiring Diagram:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major circuits.
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Fluid Changes
Troubleshooting:
Systematic Diagnostic Procedures and Solutions
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Renovation:
Guidance on refurbishment and renovation tasks
Reassembly:
Detailed steps for reassembling components after repair or overhaul.
Refurbish:
Guidelines for restoring components and the vehicle to good working order.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Readability:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader
Compression:
Requires WinZip or equivalent for extraction (if applicable)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac
Image Clarity:
High resolution scanned images and diagrams, ensuring clear visibility of details.
Format Type:
Digital PDF download, no physical binding.
Engine Options 1988:
1.6L CVH, 1.8L Pinto, 2.0L Pinto, 2.3L Diesel, 2.8L Cologne V6 (incl. XR4i/XR4x4 variants)
Specific Engine Codes 1988:
Common engines include 1.6 (LHC, LJF), 1.8 (JCT, JFT), 2.0 (NAS, N4A), 2.3D (12CT), 2.8 V6 (4WD: Y9DA, Y9DB; RWD: Y9DD).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 75 hp (1.6L) to 150 hp (2.8L V6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 120 Nm (1.6L) to 220 Nm (2.8L V6)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber 32/34 DMTFA on 1.6L) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) on 2.0L and V6 variants.
Gearbox Options:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (common), 3-speed automatic (C3, C5)
All Wheel Drive:
Available on XR4x4 models, typically with a 5-speed manual transmission.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official Euro NCAP data for this era; designed to pre-date stringent modern testing protocols. Focus on structural integrity of the time.
Braking Assistance:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and performance variants.
Occupant Protection:
Seat belts (front, often optional rear), reinforced safety cage construction.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often optional. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some higher-specification models.
Diagnostic Ports:
Limited on-board diagnostics compared to modern vehicles; primarily relies on visual inspection, multimeter testing, and mechanical feel.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specifics).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; consult manual for specific types and intervals (e.g., 24,000 km / 15,000 miles for standard plugs).
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Capacity approx. 4.3L for 1.6L/1.8L/2.0L.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF), e.g., Type A Suffix A or Dexron II.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7.0L - 8.0L.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension components (ball joints, bushes), exhaust system, clutch wear, electrical gremlins (e.g., sender unit issues).
Engine Specific:
CVH engines can be prone to oil leaks and head gasket issues; Pinto engines are generally robust but require regular maintenance.
Ford Europe Legacy:
Successor to the Ford Taunus, positioned as a European-market mainstream family car.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic 'jelly mould' styling, RWD platform, known for its good handling and wide range of engine options.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Cologne) and the UK (Dagenham).
Production Period Relevant To Manual:
Covers the facelifted 'Phase II' model introduced in 1985.
