🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Escort

Year:

1997

Generation:

North American Sixth Generation (1997-2003)

Codes:

VIN prefix '1FT' (Ford USA)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 Ford Escort was a compact car designed to compete in a highly saturated and competitive segment, offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency for the everyday driver.

Competitors:

Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Mirage, Dodge Neon.

Value Proposition:

This manual provides the same factory-level diagnostic and repair information used by Ford dealership technicians, enabling owners to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs with confidence, saving time and money.

Ease Of Use:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual with printable pages for workshop convenience. No need to flip through multiple books. Searchable and zoomable content.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1997 Ford Escort

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Printable)

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows and Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/Can Communication

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions, diagnosis, maintenance, servicing, repair, troubleshooting, wiring schematics, diagrams, illustrations

Technical Depth:

Factory-level, high-detail, specific to model, intended for dealership technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable Pages, Scalable Images

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder

Displacement:

1.9L (1859 cc) / 2.0L (1998 cc)

Horsepower:

Approx. 90-110 hp (depending on engine variant and market)

Torque:

Approx. 100-120 lb-ft (depending on engine variant and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent with specific ethylene glycol/water ratio.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (AX4N or compatible)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mercon V or equivalent ATF fluid (check specific application for exact type)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mercon V or equivalent ATF fluid (check specific application for exact type)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.4 inches (2499 mm)

Length:

Approx. 169.7 inches (4310 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.0 inches (1676 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.9 inches (1370 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2450-2750 lbs (1111-1247 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 3500-3700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star (1997 model year, specific test results may vary)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star (1997 model year, specific test results may vary)

Brakes:

Front ventilated disc, rear drum standard; optional rear disc

ABS:

Optional, typically on higher trims or as part of a package.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard

Seatbelts:

Front three-point height-adjustable, rear three-point and lap belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some trim levels.

Vehicle Bus:

Basic electrical systems, limited or no CAN bus communication in the modern sense; relies on older multiplexed systems for some functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation based on temperature extremes).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Radiator leaks, alternator failures, ignition coil issues, automatic transmission solenoid failures, power steering pump leaks, O2 sensor failures.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check coolant levels, listen for unusual engine or transmission noises, and inspect hoses and belts for signs of wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Ford is a global automotive manufacturer known for its wide range of vehicles, from reliable economy cars to heavy-duty trucks.

Model Origin:

The Ford Escort has a long history, originating in Europe and adapted for various global markets. The North American version has undergone several redesigns, with the 1997 model representing a significant update.

Manufacturing Location:

Wayne, Michigan, USA (for North American models)

Model Production Years:

North American Escort production spanned multiple generations from 1981 to 2003.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Earned 4-star ratings from NHTSA for front impact safety in its model year, indicating a competitive safety performance for its class at the time.