Market Position:
The Ford Mustang has historically been positioned as an affordable American sports coupe and convertible, offering performance and style to a broad consumer base.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, as well as professional mechanics needing reliable factory data.
Competitive Analysis:
During the late 1990s, the Mustang competed with other performance-oriented coupes and convertibles such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. Its independent rear suspension (IRS) introduced in 1999 was a significant upgrade in handling over its live-axle predecessors.
Key Features:
The 1998-1999 Mustang represents a transitionary period for the SN95 generation, with the 1999 model year marking a significant 'New Edge' facelift with sharper styling cues and improved aerodynamics. Availability of both V6 and V8 engine options provided different performance levels.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Specific Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, exhaust, engine control (PCM).
Specific Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission diagnosis and service, clutch system, driveshaft, universal joints.
Specific Chassis Systems:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (independent rear suspension - 1999 models, solid axle - earlier SN95), steering gear, power steering system, wheel bearings, hub assemblies.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, lighting, HVAC system, fuel tank and lines, exhaust system, chassis lubrication points.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and repair, detailed substeps, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair of all major systems, electrical system diagnosis and repair, wiring diagrams
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) code retrieval and interpretation, component testing, troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability issues.
Electrical Procedures:
Wiring harness testing, component testing (sensors, actuators, relays), fuses and fusible links, charging system, starting system, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, detailed disassembly, hundreds of photos/illustrations, notes/cautions/warnings, enlarged insets for detailed part examination
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine component rebuilding (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder heads), transmission rebuilds, differential rebuilds.
Primary Engine 1998:
4.6L SOHC V8 (PI - 'Performance Improved' variant available later in 1998/1999 models)
Primary Engine 1999:
4.6L SOHC V8 (PI - 'Performance Improved' standard on GT models)
Secondary Engine 1998 1999:
3.8L OHV V6
Horsepower 4.6L V8 Pre Pi:
Approx. 225 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 4.6L V8 Pre Pi:
Approx. 285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower 4.6L V8 Pi:
Approx. 260 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 4.6L V8 Pi:
Approx. 302 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Horsepower 3.8L V6:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4900 rpm
Torque 3.8L V6:
Approx. 215 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Code V8 Pi:
Often referred to as the 'PI' engine, identifiable by its larger intake manifold runners and different cylinder heads compared to pre-PI 4.6L.
Standard Transmission V6:
5-speed Manual
Standard Transmission Gt:
5-speed Manual (T-45 for V8)
Optional Transmission V6:
4-speed Automatic (4R70W)
Optional Transmission Gt:
4-speed Automatic (4R70W for V8)
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact 1998:
4/5 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact 1998:
4/5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Driver 1998:
3/5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Passenger 1998:
3/5 Stars
Active Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment Features Standard:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), 4-6 speaker system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on select models.
Connectivity Features:
Typically limited to basic audio inputs; no advanced Bluetooth or USB connectivity on base models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed based on visual inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life platinum/iridium plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8 Pre Pi:
Approx. 30,000 miles (Standard copper plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8 Pi:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life platinum/iridium plugs).
Engine Oil V8 Pi:
API SG, SH, SJ; SAE 5W-30 (Check Owner's Manual for specific API classification and viscosity)
Engine Oil V6 V8 Pre Pi:
API SG, SH; SAE 5W-30 (Check Owner's Manual for specific API classification and viscosity)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Coolant:
Ford Premium All Season Engine Coolant (Yellow)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (Check Owner's Manual for specific recommendations)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF or Ford Power Steering Fluid (Consult manual for exact specification)
Rear Axle Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for limited-slip differentials, friction modifier may be required)
Known Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on early PI engines), transmission shifting issues, power window motor failures, exhaust manifold cracks, PI engine cam chain tensioner noise.
Brand Heritage:
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American pony car, first introduced in 1964. It has a long-standing reputation for offering sporty styling and performance at an accessible price point.
Model Evolution Sn95:
The SN95 generation (1994-2004) marked a significant redesign from the Fox-body Mustang. The 1999 model year represented the 'New Edge' refresh, introducing updated exterior styling, revised suspension geometry, and the improved 'Performance Improved' (PI) engine for GT models.
Production Location:
Ford plants in Dearborn, Michigan, and Flat Rock, Michigan.
