Positioning:
A premium, full-size sedan offering comfort and space, positioned as a family-oriented vehicle in its segment.
Key Competitors:
Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Mercury Montego.
Platform Sharing:
Shared the D3 platform with Volvo S80 and XC90, contributing to its robust chassis and safety.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a comfortable, quiet ride and spacious interior, with a focus on practicality for families.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of engine components.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for ignition, charging, starting systems, and sensors.
Emission Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related systems, including EGR, O2 sensors, and catalytic converters.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure testing, and fuel tank service.
Clutch System:
Service and repair procedures for clutch assembly and related components (for manual transmission variants).
Manual Transaxle:
Complete repair and maintenance of the manual transaxle, including gear inspection and synchronization.
Automatic Transaxle:
Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, fluid changes, and electronic control module (TCM) procedures for the automatic transmission.
Driveshaft Axle:
Inspection, repair, and replacement of driveshafts, CV joints, and wheel bearings.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), and alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump, rack and pinion repair, and steering column service.
Restraint System:
Airbag system diagnosis, SRS module, seatbelt service, and occupant restraint component repair.
Brake System:
Disc brake service (pads, rotors), caliper repair, ABS system diagnosis, hydraulic lines, and parking brake.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel alignment, door, hood, trunk service, interior trim removal and installation, glass replacement.
Body Electrical System:
Lighting systems, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, and body control module (BCM) diagnostics.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, and heater core service.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and error code explanations.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair, including torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic scan tools, interpreting data streams, and pinpointing electrical or mechanical faults.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side-curtain airbags.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Long-life platinum or iridium plugs recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 100,000 miles or as per severe duty schedule.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (Full Synthetic or Synthetic Blend)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with filter change (approx.)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Gold Coolant (or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B51-A1)
Coolant Capacity:
10.0 quarts (9.5 liters) (approx.)
Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Some owners reported harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often related to TCM software or transmission fluid degradation.
Powertrain Control Module Issues:
Reports of PCM faults leading to various engine or transmission performance issues.
Front Suspension Components:
Premature wear of front control arm bushings and ball joints on some models.
