Target Audience:
Independent auto service professionals and car owners with basic mechanical skills
Value Proposition:
Provides dealer-level information at a fraction of the cost, enabling significant savings on maintenance and repairs
Content Origin:
Written by manufacturers, same information used by authorized dealers
Ease Of Use:
Accurate, clear, and concise text with illustrations for easy understanding
Benefit:
Empowers owners to be better informed and discuss repairs knowledgeably with technicians
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Engine Electrical:
Detailed wiring schematics, diagnostic procedures
Emission Control:
System operation, diagnosis, and repair
Fuel System:
Carbureted and fuel-injected systems, pumps, injectors, lines
Clutch System:
Hydraulic and mechanical clutch operation, replacement
Manual Transaxle:
Gearbox overhaul, component replacement
Automatic Transaxle:
Transmission operation, repair, and fluid specifications
Driveshaft And Axle:
CV joints, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment
Steering System:
Power steering, manual steering components, alignment
Restraint System:
Seat belts, airbags (if applicable to later models)
Brake System:
Disc and drum brakes, ABS (if applicable), hydraulic systems
Body Interior Exterior:
Panel replacement, trim, glass, doors, locks
Body Electrical System:
Lighting, power windows, central locking, dashboard instrumentation
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Repair:
Detailed repair instructions for all major components and systems
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, service intervals
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying faults
Depth:
Full factory-level repair and maintenance, suitable for professional mechanics and informed DIYers
Illustrations:
Includes diagrams and illustrations for clarity
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams
Specifications:
Provides necessary specifications for repair and diagnosis
Common Engine Options:
1.3L (CVH), 1.6L (CVH), 1.8L (CVH/OHC), 2.0L (OHC/DOHC), 2.3L (OHC), 2.8L V6 (Cologne), 2.9L V6 (Cologne)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60 hp to 150 hp depending on engine variant and market
Torque Range:
Varies significantly based on engine displacement and type
Fuel Delivery Types:
Carburetor (various types), Bosch L-Jetronic/K-Jetronic, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating varies by engine specification)
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 5-door estate (wagon), 2-door saloon (sedan) (region dependent)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2606 mm (102.6 inches)
Length:
Varies by body style, e.g., 4351 mm (171.3 inches) for 5-door hatchback
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1000 kg to 1300 kg (2200 lbs to 2860 lbs) depending on configuration
Crash Test Performance:
Limited official Euro NCAP or NHTSA data for early models; later models would have seen improvements
Braking:
Front disc brakes standard, rear drum brakes standard; optional ABS on later/higher trims
Occupant Protection:
Seat belts, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell
Audio Systems:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette players, optional premium sound systems
Features:
Limited driver assistance features by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical systems.
Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and usage
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine, but generally around 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km)
Timing Belt:
Crucial for CVH and OHC engines, typically replaced every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or 4-5 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/SG classification, viscosity grade typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, but check specific engine requirements
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90, specific Ford spec recommended)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon or equivalent ATF fluid (check specific transmission model)
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and tailgate/boot areas
Cvh Engine:
Can suffer from oil leaks, head gasket issues, and timing belt failures if not maintained
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related electrical issues can occur, especially with wiring looms and connectors
Suspension Wear:
Bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items
Manufacturer Lineage:
Ford of Europe's successor to the Ford Taunus and Ford Cortina
Generations:
First Generation (1982-1989), Second Generation (1989-1993) with significant facelift and chassis updates
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Germany, UK, Belgium, Spain, and other Ford plants worldwide
Sales Performance:
Massively successful model across Europe, known for its aerodynamic design and front-wheel drive layout (a first for a Ford of Europe large family car)
Automotive Journalism:
Frequently praised for its aerodynamic design and handling upon launch, earning accolades for its modern approach
European Car Of The Year:
While not a winner, it was a strong contender and highly regarded in its class
