Market Segment:
Retro-styled personal luxury convertible/coupe.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, modern interpretation of a classic American icon.
Key Competitors:
Cadillac XLR, Chrysler Crossfire, potentially BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK in terms of style and price point.
Design Philosophy:
Modern interpretation of the iconic 1950s Ford Thunderbird design, featuring a distinctive two-seater convertible body.
Platform Basis:
Shared platform with the Jaguar S-Type and Lincoln LS, contributing to its upscale feel and independent suspension.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical schematics, and specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level service manuals in software format).
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Software Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF, HTML, or proprietary viewer format)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (4R70W) service, repair, diagnostics, and specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent SLA), rear suspension (independent multi-link), power steering system, steering column.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake, hydraulic system.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Body And Trim:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, glass, seals.
Diagnostic Systems:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures.
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, inspections.
Engine Repair:
Engine component removal and installation, timing belt/chain service, cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod service.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission fluid and filter service, transmission removal and installation, internal transmission component repair.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, bleeding procedure.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber and strut replacement, ball joint and control arm service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack replacement.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical circuits, sensor diagnosis.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability and system issues.
Body Repair:
Body panel alignment, dent repair, trim component replacement, convertible top system repair.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including sensor data interpretation and actuator testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (for 2002-2004 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard on certain trims).
Seat Belts:
Three-point active seat belts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific details.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace every 100,000 miles or as recommended by Ford.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter. Use Ford Premium Gold Coolant (or equivalent).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil (API SG, SH, SJ, SL rated)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Gold Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4) Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Potential issues with hydraulic lines, motors, and seals in the power convertible top system, requiring lubrication and adjustment.
Ignition Coil Packs:
While generally reliable, some instances of ignition coil pack failure can occur on the 4.6L V8.
Water Pump Leaks:
Occasionally, water pumps may develop leaks, especially after extended service life.
Rear Suspension Bushings:
Wear in rear suspension bushings can lead to noise and degraded handling over time.
Ford Heritage:
Ford has a long history of producing iconic personal luxury cars and convertibles, dating back to the original Thunderbird introduced in 1955.
Thunderbird Evolution To 2004:
The 2004 model represents the final year of the eleventh generation, which was a revival of the classic Thunderbird styling. It aimed to capture the spirit of the original 'baby bird' while incorporating modern engineering and safety features.
Production Period:
Eleventh Generation: 2002-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
