Market Position:
The Ford Montego was positioned as a mainstream mid-size sedan, sharing its platform with the Mazda 6 and Ford Fusion. It aimed to provide comfort, practicality, and a range of engine options to a broad consumer base.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.
Key Features:
Offered a choice of V6 engines, available all-wheel drive on certain models, and a comfortable, spacious interior. The model was part of Ford's strategy to diversify its sedan lineup.
Engine Service Repair:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and rebuilding procedures
Transmission Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for automatic and potentially manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Brake System:
Service and repair of hydraulic systems, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS components
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete wiring schematics for all electrical systems
Electrical System:
Diagnosis and repair of all electrical components, circuits, and systems
Suspension:
Service and repair of front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications
Steering:
Diagnosis and repair of power steering systems, steering columns, and linkages
Cooling System:
Service and repair of radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan systems
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulators, and evaporative emission control systems
Emission System:
Service and repair of emissions control components, catalytic converters, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Heater Air Conditional:
Service and repair of HVAC system components, refrigerant, and climate control
Engine Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of Powertrain Control Module (PCM), sensors, actuators, and engine management functions
Chassis Body:
Body repair, structural information, exterior trim, and related components
Restraint System:
Service and repair of airbags, seat belts, and related safety systems
Interior:
Repair and service of interior trim, dashboard, seats, and related components
Differential Drive:
Service and repair of front and rear differentials, drive axles, and related components
Axle:
Service and repair of front and rear axles, CV joints, and related components
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and general upkeep procedures
Periodic Lubrication:
Lubrication points, schedules, and recommended lubricant types
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, numbered instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive guides for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle systems and components
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific components during repair or maintenance
Electrical Diagnostics:
Integrated troubleshooting and service procedures with detailed wiring diagrams
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, professional-level technical information suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers
Wheelbase:
Approximately 112.4 inches (2855 mm)
Length:
Approximately 190.7 inches (4844 mm)
Width:
Approximately 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approximately 58.1 inches (1476 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), depending on configuration (e.g., FWD vs. AWD, engine).
NHTSA Ratings:
Likely received good safety ratings from NHTSA for its era, with dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and available ABS and traction control.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), available Electronic Stability Control (ESC - though may be less common/standardized in early models of this generation).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual-stage front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, energy-absorbing steering column, LATCH child seat anchor system.
Infotainment System:
Base models likely featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional upgrades could include premium audio systems, in-dash 6-disc CD changers, and satellite radio capability. Ford's Audiophile sound systems were often an option.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards, but likely included features like cruise control and potentially parking assist sensors on higher trims. ABS and Traction Control were key electronic aids.
Connectivity Features:
May have offered auxiliary audio input jacks on higher trim levels or as an aftermarket addition. Bluetooth integration was not common as standard equipment during this period.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendation (e.g., 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Generally recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for the automatic transmission, or based on fluid condition and service history. Refer to manual for specific interval and fluid type (likely Mercon V or equivalent).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H (or equivalent). Capacity approximately 5.5-6.0 quarts (5.2-5.7 liters) for V6 engines.
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, meeting specification WSS-M97B44-D. Typically a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Capacity approximately 10-12 quarts (9.5-11.4 liters).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Potential issues include transmission solenoid issues, throttle body problems, catalytic converter failures, and occasional issues with power steering or suspension components. Engine mounts can also wear over time.