Model Years Covered:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Vin Vehicle Identification Number:
Refer to specific vehicle's VIN plate for detailed breakdown (e.g., Position 1: Manufacturer, Position 10: Model Year)
Generation Designation:
First Generation (2001-2007)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
Vehicle Attributes:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD), versatile cargo space, comfortable ride for its class.
Objective:
To provide comprehensive repair and maintenance information for professional technicians and knowledgeable DIYers.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform maintenance, understand repairs, and save on labor costs.
Engine:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, overhaul), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems, ignition system, engine electrical.
Transmission:
Manual transmission and automatic transmission (ATX) repair, overhaul, and diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, axles, differential (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, wheel bearings.
Steering:
Steering column, steering rack, power steering system (pump, hoses, fluid).
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder, ABS), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power distribution.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals.
Climate Control:
HVAC system (heater core, evaporator, blower motor, A/C compressor, refrigerant, controls).
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS components.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, service intervals, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, troubleshooting guides, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components and systems.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Installation:
Installation procedures for replacement parts and components.
Tune Ups:
Comprehensive tune-up procedures, including spark plug replacement, ignition timing, and fuel system adjustments.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for the assembly and disassembly of all vehicle systems and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to diagnostic procedures and the use of specialized tools.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Ford special tools with part numbers.
Safety Warnings:
Includes explicit WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE callouts for safe and correct procedures.
Engine Options:
2.0L Zetec-E (4-cylinder), 3.0L Duratec (V6) - Engine specifics vary by model year and market.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 127 hp (2.0L) to 200 hp (3.0L V6).
Torque Range:
Approximately 135 lb-ft (2.0L) to 200 lb-ft (3.0L V6).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline.
Coolant Type:
Ford Super Premium Engine Coolant (Orange) or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B44-D specification.
Engine Oil Type 2.0L:
API SG, SH, SJ, or SL rated oil, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions.
Engine Oil Type 3.0L V6:
API SG, SH, SJ, or SL rated oil, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 recommended depending on temperature.
ECU:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Length:
Approximately 174.7 inches (4437 mm).
Width:
Approximately 71.0 inches (1803 mm).
Height:
Approximately 67.3 inches (1709 mm).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.1 inches (2619 mm).
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1451 - 1633 kg) depending on engine and drivetrain.
Cargo Volume:
Approximately 23.7 cubic feet (behind rear seats), 64.2 cubic feet (with rear seats folded).
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' in frontal impact tests for this generation.
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test Rating:
Varies by year and specific test, check IIHS archives for detailed results.
Antilock Brakes ABS:
Standard on most models.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:
Often paired with ABS for optimized braking performance.
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags available on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L V6:
Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or equivalent meeting Ford specification).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mercon V or equivalent (check owner's manual).
Common Problems:
Transmission shifting issues (especially on early models), ignition coil failures, wheel bearing noise, exhaust manifold cracks (3.0L V6), HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Common Problems Continued:
Catalytic converter issues, ABS sensor failures, interior water leaks.