Applicable Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Engine Codes:
VICS, SOHC, DOHC (depending on specific variant)
Market Segment:
Large family sedan/wagon, executive car, pursuit vehicle
Key Competitors:
Holden Commodore, Mitsubishi Magna, Toyota Camry (in its segment), Nissan Maxima
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful engine options, rear-wheel drive dynamics, strong presence in Australian market
User Benefit:
Enables owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, saving time and money while ensuring vehicle longevity and safety.
Powertrain:
Engine (including diagnosis, overhaul, specific component repair), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline (CV joints, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Body Electrical (windows, locks, mirrors), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics, HVAC controls
Body And Frame:
Body structure, Exterior panels, Interior trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Glass, Bumpers, Collision repair procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid level checks & changes, Filter replacements, Belt inspections & replacements, Spark plug replacement, Brake pad replacement
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Brake caliper rebuild, Suspension component replacement, Steering rack repair, Electrical component diagnosis & replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation, Electrical circuit testing
Technical Information:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Timing procedures, Diagnostic data, Wiring diagrams, Exploded views, Component identification
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics)
Engine Options:
4.0L I6 (Barra), 5.0L V8 (Windsor, later modified), 4.0L Supercharged I6 (optional)
Horsepower Range:
148 kW (4.0L I6) to 245 kW (Supercharged V8 variants, e.g., Fairlane Ghia, LTD)
Torque Range:
340 Nm (4.0L I6) to 480 Nm (Supercharged V8 variants)
Induction Type:
Naturally Aspirated, Supercharged (for performance variants)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol
ECM Type:
Ford EEC-V (Electronic Engine Control) or later iterations, with OBD-II diagnostic capabilities
Manual Transmission:
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., T5 for performance variants)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., BTR DILAW, later 4R70W for V8s)
Drive Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon (check specific manual for exact spec and capacity)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon, 2-door Utility (Coupe Utility), 4-door Utility (Crewman/Territory precursor)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2800 mm (Sedan/Wagon), varies for Utility
Tare Weight Range:
Approx. 1500 kg - 1800 kg (depending on body style and engine)
Safety Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (ABS optional/standard on higher trims)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models from 1999 onwards, side airbags optional on some later models.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with CD player (single or 6-disc changer), cassette player on early models. Upgradable to aftermarket units.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, electronic control
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II compliant port, typically located under the dashboard, for scan tool access.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 40,000 km or 2 years
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity: 10W-30, 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine and climate).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Mercon V or equivalent (check manual)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushes, ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links due to road conditions. Water pump seals, radiator hoses. Ignition coil packs (especially on early I6 models). Transmission cooler lines (potential for leaks/blockages).
Performance Engine Specifics:
Early AU V8s had some oil consumption issues. Supercharged variants require careful attention to supercharger belt and intercooler system.
Ford Australia Legacy:
The Falcon is an iconic Australian-made Ford, representing a significant portion of the brand's history and market share in Australia.
Au Series Development:
The AU Falcon marked a significant departure from previous models, with a distinctive new exterior and interior design, aimed at improving aerodynamics and modernizing the appearance. It was Ford Australia's response to increasing competition and changing consumer tastes.
Manufacturing Location:
Campbellfield, Victoria, Australia
