🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Capri

Model Generation:

Mk III (Facelift)

Model Years Covered:

1989-1994

Chassis Codes:

GFA

Body Styles Covered:

Convertible

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact sports car / coupe-convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, affordable, and relatively practical rear-wheel-drive convertible sports car of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Key Competitors:

Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA), Toyota MR2 (AW11/SW20), Nissan 200SX/Silvia (S13), Honda CRX, Alfa Romeo Spider.

Design Philosophy:

Affordable performance and style, drawing inspiration from its classic Capri predecessor and featuring a distinctive European-inspired design.

Convertible Offering:

One of the few affordable convertible options in its class during the period, offering open-top motoring.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service & Repair

Engine Variants Covered:

1.6 litre EFI (Turbo and Non-Turbo)

Transmission Types Covered:

Automatic and Manual

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for this era of factory manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanicals:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components. Includes cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, oil pump, etc.

Engine Management Efi:

Detailed explanation of the Electronic Fuel Injection system, including sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting.

Turbo System:

Specific coverage for Turbocharged models, including turbocharger operation, boost control, intercooler system, and related plumbing.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, pressure testing, and troubleshooting.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil cooler (if equipped), oil specifications, and maintenance procedures.

Charging System:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, wiring, and testing procedures.

Starting System:

Starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch, and troubleshooting.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, including springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications, and repair procedures.

Brakes System:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum configurations), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS (if equipped), fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump, fluid, hoses, tie rods, and alignment.

Body Panels:

Doors, hood, trunk lid, fenders, bumpers, body shell repair, rust prevention, and panel alignment.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the retractable convertible roof system, including hydraulics, motors, latches, and fabric care.

Body Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, central locking, instruments, dashboard, fuses, relays, and troubleshooting of electrical faults.

Interior Trim And Fittings:

Seats, seat belts, dashboard trim, door panels, carpets, controls, and interior component replacement.

Stereo System:

Radio, speakers, antenna, and wiring for the audio system.

Hubs And Wheel Bearings:

Hub assembly, wheel bearing maintenance and replacement, lug nut torque specifications.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault codes (if applicable for EFI), and symptoms with likely causes and solutions.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for the removal, repair, and installation of all major vehicle components and systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Specific tests and checks for electrical components, fuel system, ignition system, and mechanical parts.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes high-quality diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations to aid in understanding complex procedures and component identification.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality Rating:

High-resolution, clear text and sharp diagrams suitable for printing individual pages.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - No physical binding.

Paper Type:

Digital (PDF) - No physical paper type.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, 1.6 litre (1597cc)

Engine Code:

Likely ZVH or CVH variants based on the era and displacement (specific code not provided, but this is standard for the 1.6 EFI).

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated (EFI) and Turbocharged (Turbo EFI)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 90-105 PS (Metric Horsepower) / 89-104 bhp (Brake Horsepower), depending on specific tuning.

Horsepower Turbocharged:

Approximately 130-140 PS (Metric Horsepower) / 128-138 bhp (Brake Horsepower), depending on boost levels and tuning.

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 130-140 Nm (Newton-meters) / 96-103 lb-ft (pound-feet).

Torque Turbocharged:

Approximately 180-200 Nm (Newton-meters) / 133-148 lb-ft (pound-feet).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-point Injection (MPI) typical for this era.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline)

Bore X Stroke:

Typically around 81.0 mm x 77.0 mm for the 1.6 litre engine.

Compression Ratio Naturally Aspirated:

Around 9.0:1 to 9.5:1.

Compression Ratio Turbocharged:

Lower, typically around 7.5:1 to 8.0:1 to prevent detonation under boost.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, dry single plate clutch.

Gear Ratios Manual:

Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, but typical for the era would offer a good balance of acceleration and highway cruising.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual gearbox oil, e.g., API GL-4 specification, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), typically Dexron II or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4071 mm (160.3 inches).

Width:

Approximately 1700 mm (66.9 inches).

Height:

Approximately 1270 mm (50.0 inches).

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2450 mm (96.5 inches).

Curb Weight Manual:

Approximately 1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs), depending on specific equipment.

Curb Weight Automatic:

Slightly heavier, approximately 1150-1250 kg (2535-2755 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lbs).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x108 mm

Typical Wheel Size:

15 inches

Typical Tire Size:

195/55R15 or 195/60R14

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Information on crashworthiness for this era is limited by modern standards. The manual will detail passive safety features available.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on some models, detailed in the manual if equipped.

Limited Slip Differential:

Often available on higher-spec or turbo models, details on operation and maintenance included.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seat belts with pre-tensioners (if equipped).

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and side structure inherent in the convertible design. Specific structural details covered.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was optional and not standard on all models during this period. Manual will cover its operation and diagnostics if fitted.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio-cassette player with 2 or 4 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Climate Control:

Manual heating and ventilation system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models, particularly higher-spec variants.

Connectivity Features:

Basic in-car connectivity for its time; primarily focused on the audio system and essential vehicle functions. No modern digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 6,000-10,000 miles (10,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles (20,000-25,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles (40,000-50,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Interval is typically around 40,000-60,000 miles (60,000-100,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH rated, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating for specific ambient temperatures).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Consult manual for specific Ford coolant specification (e.g., Ford Super Plus 2000 or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.

Common Faults From Era:

Corrosion (especially wheel arches, sills, floor pans), aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), electrical gremlins, convertible top mechanism wear, aging EFI components (sensors, fuel pump).

Turbo Specific Concerns:

Turbocharger seal wear, wastegate actuator issues, intercooler pipe leaks leading to boost loss.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Sportscar Lineage:

The Capri nameplate carries a legacy from the original European Ford Capri (1969-1986), a highly successful rear-wheel-drive sports coupe.

Mk Iii Development:

The Mk III Capri (also known as the Capri III) was an evolution of the Mk II, featuring updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and revised engines. The facelift for 1989 further refined the design and introduced the 1.6 EFI engine as a key option.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany.

Production Years For Mk Iii:

1982-1986 for the initial Mk III, with the facelift and updated range (including the 1989-1994 covered models) continuing production.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Reception:

While not a recipient of specific major awards in its later years, the Ford Capri was a popular and charismatic sports car that garnered a significant enthusiast following. Its continued popularity is a testament to its appeal.