Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, professional technicians
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Manual Advantages:
Detailed sub-steps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations, enlarged insets, combined troubleshooting/wiring diagrams.
Engine:
2.3L Duratec DOHC I4, 3.0L Vulcan SOHC V6
Powertrain Management:
Engine control, fuel delivery, ignition system, emission controls
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic (AX4N/4F50N)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear independent multi-link suspension, shocks, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Front vented discs, Rear solid discs (or drums on some early models), ABS, parking brake
Electrical System:
12V battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power accessories, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, frame, exhaust system
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control unit
Restraints:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuild procedures
Electrical Service:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component repair and replacement
Engine Overhaul:
Engine teardown, inspection, assembly, component specifications
Transmission Service:
Fluid service, filter replacement, seal replacement, internal component repair
Brake Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS component diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
4-Star
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact:
4-Star
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Standard)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific oil type and conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Iridium spark plugs).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy) or SAE 5W-30 for V6. Consult manual for specific API service category (e.g., API SN/SP).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Coolant:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Gold/Orange) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B44-D (for ethylene glycol based).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Rear wheel bearing failure.
Common Issue 2:
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing or intake manifold gaskets (especially on V6).
Common Issue 3:
Throttle body issues leading to rough idle or stalling.
Common Issue 4:
Catalytic converter failure.
Common Issue 5:
Power steering pump leaks or noise.
Brand Focus:
Ford's history of producing durable and practical vehicles, including SUVs.
Generation:
First Generation (UN94, 2001-2007)
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner.
Manufacturing Locations:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
