Vehicle Segment:
Full-size sedan, later categorized as a large car.
Target Audience:
Families seeking comfortable, spacious, and safe transportation.
Competitors:
Buick Lucerne, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Chevrolet Impala.
Platform Sharing:
Shared the D3 platform with the Mercury Montego and Lincoln MKZ, highlighting a focus on ride quality and chassis dynamics.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized American styling cues, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, with an available All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced all-weather capability.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system service, front-wheel drive (FWD) components, drive shafts, CV joints, differential service.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, parking brake.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, steering rack and pinion, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, interior and exterior lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).
Body Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seating, headliner, glass replacement, sealants.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, exterior trim, lighting (headlights, taillights), mirrors.
Restraints:
Airbag system diagnostics and service, seatbelt mechanisms, pre-tensioners.
Instrumentation Controls:
Instrument cluster diagnostics, control modules, switches, driver information systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including detailed disassembly and reassembly procedures.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic techniques, scan tool usage, live data analysis, component testing.
Installation:
Procedures for replacing or installing new parts and components.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications, electrical resistance values.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional mechanics, technicians, and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Visuals:
Hundreds of detailed photos and diagrams, including exploded views and step-by-step illustrations.
Content Type:
Factory-level repair procedures, technical service bulletins (TSBs) often referenced, service bulletins.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available or standard on some trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and available side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 to 30,000 miles (32,000 to 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 20,000 miles (24,000 to 32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer specification (refer to manual for exact Ford spec WSS-M2C930-A).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B44-D specification.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 12.0 US quarts (11.4 liters).
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of rough shifting or transmission shudder, particularly with earlier models. Torque converter shudder can occur.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners have reported interior trim rattles and squeaks due to the extensive use of plastic.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Issues:
Occasional PCM or sensor failures can lead to check engine lights or drivability issues.
Cv Axle Wear:
Front CV axles can wear over time, especially on AWD models, leading to clicking noises when turning.