Positioning:
Compact car offered by Mercury, often positioned as a more upscale or sportier alternative to mainstream compacts, built on a Mazda platform.
Competitors:
Ford Escort (shares platform), Chevrolet Cavalier, Dodge Neon, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra.
Distinctiveness:
Styling cues differentiating it from the Mazda 323 and Ford Escort, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for reliability when properly maintained.
Main Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Engine Coverage:
1.9L 4-Cylinder (Mazda FE-DOHC)
Transmission Coverage:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Estimated Page Count:
1000+ (typical for comprehensive OE-derived software)
Type:
Digital Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Web-based/Online Access (Subscription-based for 1 year)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics, engine removal/installation.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles, differentials.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic system diagnostics, component replacement.
Steering And Suspension:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (trailing arms), wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting system, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and component service.
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat removal/installation.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair:
Component removal, repair, and installation procedures for all major vehicle systems. Includes detailed torque specifications and assembly sequences.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhaul, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.9 Liters (1900 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 87.2 mm (estimated)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (typical for this engine)
Horsepower:
108 HP @ 5500 RPM (estimated for US spec)
Torque:
114 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (estimated for US spec)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (estimated for 1994 model year standards)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts.
Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical recommendation, consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (if standard copper plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (critical maintenance for interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for temperature variations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford Spec: F5AZ-18150-AA or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Ford Spec: XT-2-QDX or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF or Ford specified power steering fluid.
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks (plastic tanks), starter motor issues, minor electrical gremlins (especially dashboard illumination), worn control arm bushings, clutch wear.
Engine Management:
Occasional idle control valve issues, throttle position sensor (TPS) degradation.
Mercury Positioning:
Mercury division of Ford Motor Company, aimed at providing more upscale or distinctively styled vehicles than Ford counterparts.
Second Generation:
Introduced for the 1990 model year, based on the Mazda 323 platform. The 1994 model represents a late phase of this generation, featuring updated styling and features.
Manufacturing Location:
Ford-Questa plant, Hermosillo, Mexico (shared with Mazda Protegé/323 and Ford Escort)
Production Span:
1990-1996 (Second Generation)
