Segment Positioning:
Flagship full-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and traditional American styling.
Key Competitors:
Cadillac DTS, Chrysler 300, Buick Lucerne, Lexus LS (older generations)
Vehicle Highlights:
Extended wheelbase, rear-wheel drive platform, smooth V8 engine, plush ride quality, extensive interior space.
Ride Quality:
Renowned for its exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, often achieved through long-travel suspension and sound-deadening materials.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, traction control)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, power accessories, comfort and convenience systems, body control module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Body:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, airbags
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnostics, repair, and component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, climate controls).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic connector information (OBD-II)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, wiring schematics, exploded views, diagnostic charts
Performance Tuning:
Not covered in detail, focus is on factory specifications and repairs.
Body And Trim Repair:
Detailed procedures for interior and exterior panel removal, replacement, and alignment, including bumper covers, fenders, doors, and trim pieces.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step troubleshooting flowcharts based on symptoms for various systems.
Emission Controls:
Diagnosis and repair of evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, catalytic converters, and oxygen sensors.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Wiring Diagrams:
Full system wiring schematics included for all major electrical components.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Comprehensive listing of DTCs, their definitions, and diagnostic procedures.
Exploded Diagrams:
Hundreds of detailed exploded views showing part relationships for assembly and disassembly.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 225/60R16, 235/55R17 (check specific trim level)
Brake Specifications:
Front Disc, Rear Disc, ABS component identification and service procedures.
Manual Purpose:
Designed for both routine maintenance and complex repair tasks, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Moderaterightfrontoffset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or as indicated by the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped: 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ford Gold Coolant (or equivalent orange long-life)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Ford Type-F ATF or equivalent
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failures, coolant crossover pipe leaks (plastic), front air suspension leaks (on models equipped), PCM capacitor failure (on older Northstar engines, less common on 2008 models), alternator issues, fuel pump module failure.