Vehicle Segment:
Compact car.
Brand Perception:
Mercury Tracer was positioned as an affordable, practical compact car, often based on Ford's global platforms or joint ventures.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Escort.
Manual Advantage:
Convenient online access, comprehensive OE-derived data, DIY friendly.
Software Advantage:
Searchable content, interactive diagrams (potentially), cross-platform compatibility.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for the 1998 Mercury Tracer.
Diagnostic Coverage:
Includes diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting for various systems.
Maintenance Coverage:
Detailed scheduled maintenance information and procedures.
Repair Coverage:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems.
Estimated Pages:
Likely over 1000 pages, typical for OE-derived service manuals.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software.
Source:
Licensed OE (Original Equipment) materials from RepairSurge.
Primary Language:
English
Access Method:
Online access via web browser.
Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet.
Subscription Duration:
One year of access included, with discounts for extended access.
Engine:
Complete engine repair, overhaul, and diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including transaxle, CV joints, and axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, and troubleshooting.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, and linkage.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, parking brake.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, electrical component testing, and troubleshooting.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Body:
Body panel repair, interior trim, and exterior components.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system information and precautions (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, seal replacement, gasket replacement.
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures (likely detailed).
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Likely includes detailed exploded views, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.
Diagnostic Tools:
May reference specific diagnostic tools or procedures required for certain tests.
Delivery Format:
Online software platform.
Data Format:
Proprietary RepairSurge format, accessible via web browser.
Printability:
Information is digitally accessible; print quality depends on user's printer and browser settings.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format).
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital Format).
Engine Code:
Likely the 2.0L DOHC SPI (Zetec-S) or potentially a 1.8L SOHC SPI variant.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) or SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft).
Displacement:
Approximately 2.0 liters (1988 cc) or 1.8 liters (1796 cc).
Horsepower:
Around 110-125 hp for the 2.0L DOHC, lower for the 1.8L SOHC.
Torque:
Approximate torque figures would be in the range of 120-135 lb-ft for the 2.0L.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based, depending on specific engine variant.
Body Styles:
4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback (and potentially a wagon variant based on Mazda 323).
Length:
Approx. 174-178 inches (sedan/hatchback).
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches.
Height:
Approx. 54-55 inches.
Curb Weight:
Ranging from approximately 2500-2700 lbs, depending on body style and transmission.
NHTSA Ratings:
Safety ratings for this era are generally lower than modern standards. Specific 1998 Tracer ratings would need to be checked via NHTSA archives.
Brakes:
Standard front disc brakes; rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags were standard or optional depending on trim level.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic, check manual for manual transmission.
Spark Plugs:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Type:
Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on ambient temperature and engine manufacturer recommendation (consult manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific color/type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (especially automatic), minor electrical gremlins, exhaust system corrosion, intake manifold gasket leaks on some Mazda-derived engines.
Engine Trouble:
Premature wear of timing belt tensioner and pulleys on some older Mazda engines, potential for coolant leaks from the water pump.
Parent Company:
Ford Motor Company.
Platform Sharing:
The 1998 Mercury Tracer was based on the Mazda BG platform, which was also used for the Ford Escort and Mazda 323/Familia.
Generation:
This generation of Tracer (second generation) ran from 1997 to 1999, evolving from the previous generation's Mazda GD platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Mexico (primarily).
Production Years:
1982-1999 (Tracer nameplate history). The specific second generation was 1997-1999.
