🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercury Model: Mystique Year: 1996 Codes Platform: CDW27 (shared with Ford Contour and Mercury Cougar XR7) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Mid-size sedan aimed at individuals and families seeking a comfortable and stylish American car Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Stratus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord Key Features Vehicle Appeal: European-inspired handling and styling, comfortable ride, relatively quiet cabin Manual Advantage Convenience: Instant online access, more convenient and cost-effective than traditional printed manuals Accuracy: Licensed information derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive service and repair for the 1996 Mercury Mystique Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Software/Web-based Access Access Duration Duration: 1 Year Subscription 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants Transmission: Service and repair for automatic and manual transmissions Brakes: Inspection, repair, and overhaul of braking systems, including ABS if equipped Suspension Steering: Repair and adjustment of suspension and steering components Electrical Electronics: Wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems Climate Control: Diagnosis and repair of heating and air conditioning systems Fuel Exhaust: Fuel delivery, injection, and exhaust system service Body Interior: Body panel repair, interior trim, and associated hardware Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair Rebuild: Step-by-step repair and complete overhaul instructions for major components Diagnostics: Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of diagnostic tools and code reading Technical Depth Depth: Factory-derived information covering basic maintenance to complex component overhauls and diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Web-based, accessible via browser on PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital content, printable pages available Binding Type Type: N/A (Software/Web-based) Paper Type Type: N/A (Software/Web-based) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: Zetec-SE (North America) Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1988 cc) Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves Horsepower: 125 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Induction: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Performance Acceleration 0 60: Approximately 10.5 seconds Optional Engine Engine Option: 2.5L V6 (Duratec) Displacement V6: 2.5 Liters (2496 cc) Configuration V6: V6, DOHC, 24 valves Horsepower V6: 170 hp @ 6250 rpm Torque V6: 170 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 2 0L: 5-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type 2 0L Optional: 4-Speed Automatic (AX4N) Transmission Type 2 5L: 4-Speed Automatic (AX4N) Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, overdrive 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 185.1 inches Width: 70.1 inches Height: 55.3 inches Wheelbase: 105.9 inches Front Track: 59.7 inches Rear Track: 59.7 inches Weights Curb Weight 2 0L Manual: 2980 lbs Curb Weight 2 5L Auto: 3190 lbs Cargo Trunk Volume: 14.0 cubic feet 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: 4 stars (1996 model year ratings) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: 4 stars (1996 model year ratings) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player; optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models, optional on base trims. Connectivity No Modern Connectivity: No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or other modern digital connectivity features. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with conventional oil; 7,500 miles with synthetic oil (consult manual for specific recommendations). Engine Coolant Change: Initial at 50,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years thereafter (refer to specific coolant type). Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific fluid and interval). Spark Plug Replacement 2 0L: Approximately 60,000 miles (copper plugs); longer for iridium/platinum plugs (refer to manual). Timing Belt Replacement 2 0L: 70,000 - 100,000 miles (critical maintenance item; failure can cause severe engine damage). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG, SH, or SJ certified oil, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for specific viscosity index). Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.0L Zetec-SE; 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 2.5L Duratec. Transmission Fluid Type Auto: Mercon V or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Transmission Fluid Type Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Coolant Type: Ford PremiumEngine Coolant (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Known Issues Common Problems: Rear axle seal leaks, coolant leaks (especially from intake manifold gaskets or heater core), intermittent electrical issues, suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), occasional transmission issues (especially with older automatics). 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand History: Mercury was an American automobile manufacturer established by Ford Motor Company in 1938. Model Evolution Model...