Market Position:
        
        
            The Ford Montego was positioned as a mainstream mid-size sedan, sharing its platform with the Mazda 6 and Ford Fusion. It aimed to provide comfort, practicality, and a range of engine options to a broad consumer base.
        
     
    
    
        
            Competitors:
        
        
            Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.
        
     
    
    
        
            Key Features:
        
        
            Offered a choice of V6 engines, available all-wheel drive on certain models, and a comfortable, spacious interior. The model was part of Ford's strategy to diversify its sedan lineup.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Engine Service Repair:
        
        
            Comprehensive engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and rebuilding procedures
        
     
    
        
            Transmission Service Repair:
        
        
            Detailed procedures for automatic and potentially manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul
        
     
    
        
            Brake System:
        
        
            Service and repair of hydraulic systems, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS components
        
     
    
        
            Wiring Diagrams:
        
        
            Complete wiring schematics for all electrical systems
        
     
    
        
            Electrical System:
        
        
            Diagnosis and repair of all electrical components, circuits, and systems
        
     
    
        
            Suspension:
        
        
            Service and repair of front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications
        
     
    
        
            Steering:
        
        
            Diagnosis and repair of power steering systems, steering columns, and linkages
        
     
    
        
            Cooling System:
        
        
            Service and repair of radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan systems
        
     
    
        
            Fuel Injection Fuel System:
        
        
            Diagnosis and repair of fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulators, and evaporative emission control systems
        
     
    
        
            Emission System:
        
        
            Service and repair of emissions control components, catalytic converters, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
        
     
    
        
            Heater Air Conditional:
        
        
            Service and repair of HVAC system components, refrigerant, and climate control
        
     
    
        
            Engine Control System:
        
        
            Diagnosis and repair of Powertrain Control Module (PCM), sensors, actuators, and engine management functions
        
     
    
        
            Chassis Body:
        
        
            Body repair, structural information, exterior trim, and related components
        
     
    
        
            Restraint System:
        
        
            Service and repair of airbags, seat belts, and related safety systems
        
     
    
        
            Interior:
        
        
            Repair and service of interior trim, dashboard, seats, and related components
        
     
    
        
            Differential Drive:
        
        
            Service and repair of front and rear differentials, drive axles, and related components
        
     
    
        
            Axle:
        
        
            Service and repair of front and rear axles, CV joints, and related components
        
     
    
        
            General Maintenance:
        
        
            Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and general upkeep procedures
        
     
    
        
            Periodic Lubrication:
        
        
            Lubrication points, schedules, and recommended lubricant types
        
     
    
    
        
            Troubleshooting:
        
        
            Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues
        
     
    
        
            Repair Procedures:
        
        
            Detailed, numbered instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
        
     
    
        
            Disassembly Assembly:
        
        
            Comprehensive guides for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle systems and components
        
     
    
        
            Cleaning:
        
        
            Procedures for cleaning specific components during repair or maintenance
        
     
    
        
            Electrical Diagnostics:
        
        
            Integrated troubleshooting and service procedures with detailed wiring diagrams
        
     
    
    
        
            Technical Depth:
        
        
            Comprehensive, professional-level technical information suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Wheelbase:
        
        
            Approximately 112.4 inches (2855 mm)
        
     
    
        
            Length:
        
        
            Approximately 190.7 inches (4844 mm)
        
     
    
        
            Width:
        
        
            Approximately 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
        
     
    
        
            Height:
        
        
            Approximately 58.1 inches (1476 mm)
        
     
    
    
        
            Curb Weight:
        
        
            Approximately 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), depending on configuration (e.g., FWD vs. AWD, engine).
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            NHTSA Ratings:
        
        
            Likely received good safety ratings from NHTSA for its era, with dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and available ABS and traction control.
        
     
    
    
        
            Active Safety Features:
        
        
            Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), available Electronic Stability Control (ESC - though may be less common/standardized in early models of this generation).
        
     
    
    
        
            Passive Safety Features:
        
        
            Dual-stage front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, energy-absorbing steering column, LATCH child seat anchor system.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Infotainment System:
        
        
            Base models likely featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional upgrades could include premium audio systems, in-dash 6-disc CD changers, and satellite radio capability. Ford's Audiophile sound systems were often an option.
        
     
    
    
        
            Driver Assistance Features:
        
        
            Limited by modern standards, but likely included features like cruise control and potentially parking assist sensors on higher trims. ABS and Traction Control were key electronic aids.
        
     
    
    
        
            Connectivity Features:
        
        
            May have offered auxiliary audio input jacks on higher trim levels or as an aftermarket addition. Bluetooth integration was not common as standard equipment during this period.
        
     
 
    
    
    
        
            Oil Change Interval:
        
        
            Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendation (e.g., 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic).
        
     
    
        
            Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
        
        
            Generally recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for the automatic transmission, or based on fluid condition and service history. Refer to manual for specific interval and fluid type (likely Mercon V or equivalent).
        
     
    
    
        
            Engine Oil Specification:
        
        
            SAE 5W-20, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H (or equivalent). Capacity approximately 5.5-6.0 quarts (5.2-5.7 liters) for V6 engines.
        
     
    
        
            Coolant Specification:
        
        
            Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, meeting specification WSS-M97B44-D. Typically a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Capacity approximately 10-12 quarts (9.5-11.4 liters).
        
     
    
        
            Brake Fluid Specification:
        
        
            DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
        
     
    
    
        
            Common Issues:
        
        
            Potential issues include transmission solenoid issues, throttle body problems, catalytic converter failures, and occasional issues with power steering or suspension components. Engine mounts can also wear over time.