Systems Covered:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle, General Maintenance, Troubleshooting.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems (belts/chains), and oil lubrication system.
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Covers fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis, fuel pressure regulation, and fuel filter replacement.
Emission Control Systems:
Information on catalytic converters, EGR systems, evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems, and related sensors for emissions compliance.
Transmission Overhaul:
Includes step-by-step instructions for manual and automatic transmission removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including clutch service and torque converter replacement.
Brake System Components:
Detailed coverage of front and rear disc brakes (including vented discs on some models), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS components, and brake fluid service.
Suspension And Steering Geometry:
Includes repair and replacement of front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment procedures, and steering system components (rack and pinion, power steering pump, steering column).
Electrical System Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including engine management, lighting, instruments, comfort controls, power accessories, and safety systems.
Engine Control Modules:
Information on Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) locations, connector pinouts, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Chassis And Body Structural:
Information on frame integrity, rust prevention, jacking points, and basic structural repairs. Bodywork repair techniques for dents, panel replacement, and trim.
Cooling System Components:
Details on radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, coolant hoses, and heater core service and replacement.
Procedures Included:
Disassembly, reassembly, repair, servicing, maintenance, refurbishment, renovation, mending, fixing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component testing, calibration, replacement of parts, fluid changes, electrical diagnostics.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and tables to identify and resolve common and uncommon vehicle problems based on symptoms.
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, belt inspections, and fluid checks.
Lubrication Procedures:
Specific recommendations for lubrication points, types of lubricants, and greases for various chassis and suspension components.
Body And Chassis Repair:
Guidance on body panel repair, corrosion prevention, door and latch mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, and chassis component replacement.
Restraint System Service:
Information on airbag system components, SRS module, seatbelt servicing, and safe handling procedures for airbag-equipped vehicles.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced repair and diagnostics. Suitable for both amateur enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Diagnostic Tools:
Mentions of specific diagnostic tools or procedures required for certain systems, though not an exhaustive list of modern OBD-II scanners.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, critical measurements, and component tolerances essential for accurate repairs.
Electrical Component Testing:
Procedures for testing relays, solenoids, sensors, actuators, and motors using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Always refer to manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles), depending on plug type (conventional or platinum). Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96/B2-96. Viscosity typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Refer to manual for precise specification.
Coolant Specification:
Ford Specification 1316 E or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Mixture typically 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Ford Mercon or Mercon V compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Power Steering Fluid:
Ford Specification WSS-M2C195-A or equivalent power steering fluid.
Common Issues:
Early models (including this era) can experience issues with the electronic climate control system, ABS sensor failures, ignition coil pack failure (especially on V6 models), door lock actuators, and potential coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing or heater matrix.
Common Electrical Issues:
Intermittent electrical faults are not uncommon, often traced to worn wiring harnesses, faulty grounds, or failing body control modules. The central locking system can also be a point of failure.