Segment:
Subcompact Economy Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Excel, Suzuki Swift
Design Philosophy:
Compact, fuel-efficient, affordable, practical transportation
Usp:
Exceptional fuel economy and low purchase price for its era
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), clutch system, automatic transmission (3-speed) (if applicable for specific market/trim)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, constant velocity (CV) joints
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (trailing arms, coil springs), steering system (power steering optional)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows/locks (if equipped), wiring diagrams, fuses and relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, structural components, collision repair basics
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant handling (basic)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts), fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure checks
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) (if applicable for ECM), component testing procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, adjustments, and rebuilds for all covered systems
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies
Cleaning Lubrication:
Procedures for cleaning specific components and recommended lubrication points
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians
Engine Code:
FE3 (commonly)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (1342 cc)
Horsepower:
64 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
73 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates stringent modern testing)
ABS:
Not standard (optional on some later models)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990 onwards
Seat Belts:
Front three-point seat belts, rear lap belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Common Wear Item:
Clutch wear, CV joint boots, exhaust system rust
Electrical Quirks:
Aging wiring harnesses, intermittent electrical connections
Engine Performance:
Carbon buildup on valves, potential oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Ford Global Strategy:
Ford's strategy to compete in the growing global subcompact market, leveraging Mazda engineering (based on Mazda 121/Autozam Revue)
First Generation Launch:
1989 (North America), global debut earlier
Facelift:
Minor updates throughout its production run, but the core WD platform remained consistent.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (initially by Mazda), later some assembly may have occurred in other Ford facilities.
Production Years:
1989-1997 (North America)
