Positioning:
The 1998 Ford Taurus/Sable represented Ford's flagship mid-size sedan, competing in a highly contested segment against vehicles like the Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Dodge Intrepid. It emphasized comfort, space, and a smooth ride, catering to families and commuting needs.
Competition:
Key competitors included the Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus. The Taurus/Sable offered a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, often favored for its domestic appeal and value proposition, though sometimes criticized for handling dynamics compared to some Japanese rivals.
Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available V6 engines, optional all-wheel drive (less common on Sable), user-friendly interior layout, solid safety features for its era. The manual itself is a key feature for DIY enthusiasts seeking factory-accurate information.
Major Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Chassis, Brakes, Steering, Electrical, Body, Climate Control, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Suspension, Wheels & Tires, Restraint Systems, Body Panels, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2500 (based on typical OEM workshop manuals for this era and scope)
Type:
OEM Factory Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (3.0L Vulcan V6, 3.4L DOHC V6), Engine Cooling, Fuel Charging and Control, Accessory Drive, Starting System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Intake Air Distribution, Evaporative Emissions, Electronic Engine Control (EEC-V), Automatic Transaxle (AX4N), Manual Transaxle (less common), Exhaust System, Fuel Tank and Lines, Speed Control
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear Suspension (Independent Multi-link), Wheel and Tire Service, Drive Axle/Driveshaft, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc, Hydraulic Actuation, Power Brakes), Parking Brake, Steering System (Rack and Pinion, Power Steering Pump/Gear), Vehicle Dynamic System (ABS)
Electrical And Body:
Climate Control System, Instrument Cluster, Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), Charging System, Entertainment System, Module Communications Network, Anti-Theft Systems, Body Panels (Front End, Closures), Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Mirrors, Seating, Glass & Mechanisms, Instrument Panel, Console, Handles, Locks, Latches, Wipers & Washers, Bumpers, Safety Belt System, Supplemental Restraint System (Airbags), Convertible Top (if applicable)
Diagnostic And Repair:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting flowcharts, Component testing, Component removal and installation, Adjustment procedures, Repair specifications, Torque specifications, Exploded views, Maintenance schedules, Jacking and Lifting procedures, Noise, Vibration, Harshness (NVH) analysis
Depth:
Comprehensive OEM-level detail for DIY repairs, from routine maintenance to complex overhauls and diagnostics. Includes detailed wiring diagrams for accurate electrical troubleshooting.
Engine 1:
3.0L (182 cid) Vulcan OHV V6
Engine 1 Horsepower:
145 hp @ 4900 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2:
3.4L (207 cid) DOHC V8 (SHO model only - less common for Sable)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 6200 rpm (SHO)
Engine 2 Torque:
232 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (SHO)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Engine Cooling System:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled, with thermostat and fan
Length:
Approximately 199.4 inches (5065 mm)
Width:
Approximately 72.4 inches (1839 mm)
Height:
Approximately 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 107.5 inches (2730 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg) depending on configuration
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 16.0 cubic feet (453 liters)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (1998 Model Year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (1998 Model Year)
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbags
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable with pretensioners, Rear 3-point seat belts
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on Sable, optional on Taurus
Traction Control:
Optional (Traction Assist System)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using appropriate synthetic blend or conventional oil)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change fluid and filter every 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity)
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ certified; SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for 3.0L V6
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Gold Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.0L Vulcan V6), rear main seal leaks, automatic transmission issues (shifting problems, torque converter clutch issues), suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), electrical connector corrosion, potential for head gasket issues on earlier 3.0L Vulcan engines (though less common in '98 models), interior trim degradation.
Ford Heritage:
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing popular and influential vehicles in the North American market, including the iconic Taurus.
Taurus Generation 3:
The 1998 model year represents a refresh of the third-generation Taurus, which debuted in 1996. This generation featured a more rounded, aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor, a wider track for improved handling, and updated interior styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois; and Wayne, Michigan
Production Years:
Taurus/Sable: 1986-2007 (North America)
