Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (including assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust), powertrain control module (PCM) operation, ignition system, charging system, starting system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed AX4N/4F50N) - overhaul, diagnosis, electronic controls, fluid maintenance, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle and driveshaft, differential, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson strut), rear solid axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (rack and pinion), steering column, linkage, diagnosis, fluid service.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake system bleeding, caliper replacement, rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Full vehicle electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), fuse box locations and functions, wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant service, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module.
Body:
Interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wipers, seats, roof rack (if applicable).
Chassis:
Frame construction, body mounting, collision repair information (general guidelines).
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems, scan tool usage.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, battery service, brake pad replacement, belt replacement.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine disassembly/reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon problems, including no-start conditions, poor performance, electrical gremlins, HVAC issues.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, recommended fluid types, electrical component resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, circuits for various components.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed component replacement procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals. Refer to manual for specifics.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace fluid and filter at 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions and manual recommendation.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years. Use Ford Premium Gold Coolant or equivalent.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium spark plugs (refer to specific engine type).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MERCON ATF or FORD power steering fluid.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
Rear main seal leaks, occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, exhaust manifold leaks, spark plug blow-out (on certain older Triton V8s, less common on Freestar V6s but can occur with improper torque).
Common Issues Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, failure of the solenoid pack or internal clutches.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, strut mount issues, premature wear of bushings.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, intermittent dashboard warning lights, issues with the Body Control Module (BCM).
Common Issues Body:
Rust on rocker panels and wheel wells, issues with sliding door mechanisms, tailgate latch problems.