🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Sierra

Year:

1990

Production Years Covered:

1990

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Ford Sierra was a popular family car produced by Ford of Europe from 1982 to 1993. The 1990 model represents a mature iteration of the popular RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) platform, known for its practicality, comfort, and engaging driving dynamics, often competing with models like the Opel Vectra, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 405 in its segment.

Competitive Set:

Key competitors during the 1990 model year included the Vauxhall/Opel Cavalier/Vectra, Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 405, Renault 21, and Fiat Croma. The Sierra's strength lay in its robust engineering, spacious interior for its class, and a wide range of engine options.

Key Features Of Vehicle:

Rear-wheel drive platform, aerodynamic 'jelly mould' styling, spacious interior, reliable powertrains, available in various body styles (hatchback, saloon, estate), and sporty XR4i/Cosworth variants.

Manual Value Proposition:

This manual provides essential, in-depth technical data and procedural guidance akin to a factory service manual, enabling owners and technicians to effectively maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1990 Ford Sierra, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service information for the 1990 Ford Sierra.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific number not provided, but implied to be comprehensive like a factory manual).

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline and diesel engines offered for the 1990 Sierra. Includes fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, and lubrication systems.

Transmission:

Covers manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, and drive axle components.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed information on steering, front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, and wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic brake systems, including master cylinder, brake boosters, calipers, drums, pads, shoes, and ABS (if applicable to specific trims).

Electrical System:

Extensive diagrams and troubleshooting for lighting, starting and charging systems, ignition, fuel injection, instrument cluster, comfort controls, and wiring harnesses.

Body And Interior:

Information on body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, upholstery, interior trim, and climate control systems.

Maintenance:

Step-by-step guides for routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Detailed instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling all major vehicle components.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and common problem identification for various systems.

Repair Techniques:

In-depth repair instructions, including specialized tools and techniques.

Technical Depth:

Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for in-depth diagnosis and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Capability:

YES

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1990:

The 1990 Ford Sierra was available with a range of engines, including the CVH (1.4L, 1.6L), I4 (2.0L), and V6 (2.8L, 2.9L) gasoline engines, as well as diesel options (e.g., 1.8L, 2.3L). Specific engine codes and variants like the DOHC 2.0L (Ford Pinto engine family) were common.

Typical Power Output 2.0L:

For the common 2.0L OHC engine, power output typically ranged from 90-115 PS (90-113 bhp; 66-85 kW) depending on the fuel injection or carburetion system.

Typical Torque 2.0L:

Torque figures for the 2.0L OHC engine were usually around 150-170 Nm (111-125 lb-ft).

Fuel System Types:

Carbureted (e.g., Weber twin-choke) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems were prevalent across the range.

Spark Plug Gap 2.0L Ohc:

Typically 0.8mm - 1.0mm (0.032 - 0.039 inches), but always consult specific engine variant data in the manual.

Engine Oil Grade:

Commonly SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 for gasoline engines, depending on climate. Diesel engines may require specific diesel-rated oils.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

The manual offered covers both 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., Type 9) and automatic transmissions.

Optional Transmission Type:

Various automatic transmissions were optional, often a 3-speed or 4-speed unit.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Typically Ford Mercon or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Manual Transmission Oil Type:

Likely SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, depending on the specific gearbox.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2600 mm (102.4 inches).

Length:

Varies by body style (hatchback, saloon, estate), generally around 4400-4500 mm (173-177 inches).

Width:

Approximately 1700 mm (67 inches).

Height:

Approximately 1380-1450 mm (54-57 inches) depending on body style.

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 1100 kg to 1300 kg (2425 - 2866 lbs) depending on engine and trim.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Typically 4x108 mm.

Typical Tire Size:

Commonly 185/70 R14 or 195/60 R14, with larger sizes available on sportier trims.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards and crash testing methodologies in 1990 were different from today. The Sierra was designed to meet the safety regulations of its time, with improvements over earlier models.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (on higher trims or as an option), power-assisted steering, and generally balanced handling due to its RWD layout.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (three-point in front), padded dashboard, energy-absorbing steering column, and safety glass. Optional ABS might have been available on some models.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic audio systems (radio, cassette player), manual or basic electronic climate control, and analogue instrument clusters were standard.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features like power steering and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available on higher trims or as optional extras.

Connectivity Features:

No digital connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were available on the 1990 model. External devices could be connected to the audio system via auxiliary inputs if equipped.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for gasoline engines. Diesel engines may have similar intervals but consult the manual for specifics.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For engines with timing belts (e.g., some 2.0L OHC, some diesel), replacement intervals are critical, often around 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. This manual will specify exact intervals and procedures for each engine type.

Coolant Type:

Typically a glycol-based antifreeze, usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Ford coolant specifications should be checked.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, conforming to FMVSS 116.

Common Issues:

Typical issues for vehicles of this age can include rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms), aging electrical components (connectors, relays), worn suspension bushes, and potential head gasket issues on certain engines if not properly maintained.

Ignition System Maintenance:

Regular checks and replacement of spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor arm, and ignition leads are crucial for optimal performance and fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Europe Heritage:

Ford of Europe has a long history of producing popular and reliable vehicles, with the Sierra succeeding the highly successful Ford Cortina.

Sierra Development:

The Sierra was a significant departure from the Cortina, featuring radical aerodynamic styling and a focus on improved engineering. It underwent facelifts (e.g., 'facelift 2' in 1990) that updated styling and introduced new features.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (Cologne) and Belgium (Genk) for the European market.

Performance Variants:

Iconic performance variants include the Sierra RS Cosworth and Sierra Sapphire Cosworth, which were highly successful in motorsport and praised for their turbocharged engines and advanced aerodynamics.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While not a direct award, the Sierra's aerodynamic design was groundbreaking for its time and influential in automotive design.

Rally And Touring Car Success:

The Sierra, particularly the Cosworth variants, achieved significant success in various motorsport disciplines, including Group A rallying and British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), cementing its sporting credentials.