Market Position:
The 1990 Lincoln Continental was positioned as a luxury sedan, offering a refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and advanced features for its era. This manual caters to owners and independent repair facilities seeking accurate, factory-derived information for maintenance and repair.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors in the 1990 luxury sedan market included models from Cadillac (e.g., DeVille), Cadillac (e.g., Seville), Mercedes-Benz (e.g., 300-Class), BMW (e.g., 5-Series), and Lexus (e.g., LS 400). The Continental aimed to compete with domestic luxury offerings while introducing new styling and technology.
Key Features:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), independent front and rear suspension, optional anti-lock braking system (ABS), sophisticated climate control, and a spacious, well-appointed interior. This manual provides the depth of information needed to maintain and repair these features.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service and repair information for the 1990 Lincoln Continental.
Page Count:
Estimated 1,500+ pages (typical for OE service manuals).
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software (Licensed OE Material)
Format:
Online Access (Web Browser Compatible)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Axles), Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body and Chassis, Interior, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), Engine Repair and Rebuild, Transmission Service and Overhaul, Brake System Service and Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Diagnosis and Repair, Electrical System Troubleshooting, HVAC System Diagnosis and Repair, Fuel System Servicing, Cooling System Maintenance, Exhaust System Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement, Interior Trim and Component Repair, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Installation and Removal.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures, component-specific repair instructions, detailed torque specifications, wiring schematics, diagnostic flowcharts, specifications for all major and minor repairs and maintenance tasks.
Primary Engine:
3.8L (3797 cc) OHV V6 ( lắp. A9 )
Horsepower:
Approx. 140 hp @ 3600 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 215 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multiport Fuel Injection (MPFI).
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron
Valvetrain Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder.
Ignition System Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based system depending on exact build date/variant.
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostat and fan.
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Overdrive (AOD or AXOD-E)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled shifts, lock-up torque converter.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 pints (5.4 liters) for refill after pan drop.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.7 inches (2888 mm)
Length:
Approx. 203.9 inches (5180 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1678-1769 kg), depending on equipment.
Standard Tire Size:
P215/70R15
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm)
Standard Wheel Size:
15 x 6.0 inches
Crash Test Ratings:
Information not readily available for this specific year. Generally, vehicles of this era were not subjected to the same rigorous standardized crash testing as modern vehicles.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Power-assisted disc front brakes, Power-assisted drum rear brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Front and rear crumple zones, Side-impact door beams, Driver and front passenger airbags (standard), Seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, power antenna.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, automatic climate control with electronic sensors.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Limited to radio and optional external devices).
Lighting Technology:
Halogen headlights, incandescent tail and signal lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, using quality oil.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first, or under severe driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges).
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Mercon ATF or Ford Power Steering Fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, EGR valve issues, and spark plug blow-out on some 3.8L V6 engines. Oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan are also common.
Common Issues Transmission:
Transmission solenoids and control modules can fail, leading to shifting problems. Leaks from the transmission cooler lines are also possible.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn front control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
Issues with power window motors, door lock actuators, and climate control head units are not uncommon. Corroded grounds can cause various electrical gremlins.
Spark Plug Part Number:
Champion 7795 or equivalent (check specific engine code).
Air Filter Part Number:
Wix WA10013, Fram CA3830 or equivalent.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A or equivalent.
Brand Heritage:
Lincoln, a division of Ford Motor Company, has a long-standing history of producing luxury vehicles in North America, dating back to 1917. The Continental nameplate has been a significant part of Lincoln's identity, representing flagship luxury and sophisticated design.
Model Evolution 1990:
The 1990 Continental represented the eighth generation of the model, a significant redesign that moved away from the traditional large, RWD American sedan towards a more modern, FWD platform. This generation was praised for its aerodynamic styling and improved interior packaging. It was built on Ford's front-wheel-drive LN7 platform, shared with the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable.
Production Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Oakville, Ontario, Canada.
