🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercury

Model:

MKZ

Year:

2008

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan.

Brand Perception:

A rebranded and re-styled Lincoln Zephyr, aimed at offering a more accessible luxury experience within the Ford Motor Company's lineup.

Key Competitors:

Acura TL, Lexus ES, Cadillac CTS, Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on distinctive styling, comfortable interior, and refined ride quality, often incorporating elements from Ford's premium platforms.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the knowledge to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

Models Covered:

All MKZ Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types for 2008

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, timing components.

Engine Performance:

Engine management system, ignition system, emission control systems, fuel injection, turbocharger/supercharger (if applicable), engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 6F50/6F55), torque converter, transmission fluid, valve body, clutch packs, planetary gear sets, seals, gaskets, transmission removal and installation.

Transmission Electronic:

Transmission control module (TCM), shift solenoids, speed sensors, park/neutral position switch, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, drive axles, CV joints, differential (integrated with transmission), rear suspension components (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut, control arms, ball joints, stabilizer bar), rear suspension (e.g., independent multi-link), springs, shock absorbers/struts, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric assist), steering column, steering rack/gearbox, tie rod ends, power steering fluid, troubleshooting steering issues.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, brake lines, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnostics, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn, power outlets.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, corrosion repair.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module, AC service procedures.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Audio system, navigation system, climate control interface, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, keyless entry, basic diagnostic procedures for modules.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly for virtually every part of the vehicle.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Interpretation and resolution steps for DTCs generated by the vehicle's various control modules.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits, illustrating component connections and wire routing.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise measurements, torque values, fluid capacities, and operational parameters for all serviceable components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick navigation and information retrieval.

Print Ability:

Printable by chapter or in its entirety.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3.5L V6 (Duratec 35)

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3496 cc)

Configuration:

V-6

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total)

Horsepower:

Approx. 263 hp @ 6250 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 249 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Emission Control:

California-based PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) or LEV II (Low Emission Vehicle II) depending on market and configuration.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Model Code:

6F50 / 6F55 (depending on specific drivetrain tuning)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2008 model year MKZ, only automatic was offered.

Drive System:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios detailed within the manual, allowing for optimized power delivery.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MERCON LV (Low Viscosity)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.0 - 9.8 quarts (8.5 - 9.3 liters) for dry fill, subject to specific component replacement.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 193.4 inches (4913 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.2 inches (1453 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Tire Size Standard:

P225/50R17

Front Headroom:

Approx. 38.3 inches (973 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approx. 42.3 inches (1074 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 37.0 inches (940 mm)

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 37.4 inches (950 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters)

Curb Weight Standard:

Approx. 3631 lbs (1647 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver) / 5-Star (Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (Front) / 4-Star (Rear)

IIHS Front Offset:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac with ESP)

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual-Stage Front Airbags

Airbags Side:

Standard Front Side-Impact Airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Standard Side-Curtain Airbags (First and Second Row)

Seatbelts:

3-point safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Available with premium audio systems (e.g., Audiophile, THX certified audio) featuring multiple speakers and subwoofer.

Navigation System:

Optional factory-installed touchscreen navigation system with DVD-based or hard-drive based mapping.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control standard on many trims.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Connectivity Options:

SiriusXM Satellite Radio integration, available Bluetooth hands-free phone system (SYNC infotainment system).

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry system with remote key fob. Optional Intelligent Access push-button start.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend oil. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or with every oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect annually, replace as needed or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 (meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C153-H) - Synthetic Blend Recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 - 6.0 quarts (5.2 - 5.7 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-7B) - Orange, ethylene glycol-based.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (meeting Ford Specification WSS-M6C65-A2).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MERCON V (meeting Ford Specification XT-5-QMC) - if hydraulic power steering.

Transmission Hard Shifts:

Occasional reports of rough or hesitant shifting, often addressed with software updates or transmission fluid service.

Powertrain Control Module Faults:

Potential for PCM issues leading to various engine and transmission performance anomalies.

Suspension Noise:

Front suspension components (struts, ball joints, sway bar links) can develop noise over time.

HVAC Blend Door Actuator:

Common issue with HVAC blend door actuators failing, leading to improper temperature control or air distribution.

Fuel Pump Module:

Some reports of premature fuel pump module failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Motor Company Division:

Mercury was a division of Ford Motor Company, established in 1939, positioned between Ford and Lincoln brands to offer a wider range of vehicles.

Mkz Introduction:

The MKZ replaced the Mercury Milan sedan in the lineup, though the Milan also offered a V6. The MKZ aimed to provide a more distinct and premium identity.

Platform Sharing:

Based on Ford's CD3 platform, shared with the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, and also influenced by Mazda's Atenza platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Flat Rock, Michigan, USA (Ford's AutoAlliance International plant).

Production Years:

The first generation MKZ (including the 2008 model) was produced from 2005 (as a 2006 model) to 2012. The 2008 model year represents the second year of this generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Recipient of good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, as detailed in the safety section.

Design Accolades:

While not a recipient of major automotive design awards, the MKZ's styling was considered a step forward for the Mercury brand.