🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercury Model: Sable Year: 1996 Body Style: Sedan / Wagon 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Mid-size sedan/wagon, often seen as a more upscale alternative to the Ford Taurus. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Chevrolet Lumina, Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight, Dodge Intrepid, Chrysler Concorde. Key Features Platform: Ford DEW platform, shared with Ford Taurus and Mercury Mystique. Distinction: Often perceived as offering a quieter, more refined ride and more luxurious interior appointments compared to its Ford counterpart. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language: English Format: Software (likely CD-ROM or digital download) Page Count: N/A (Software format, not page-based) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 3.0L Vulcan V6, 3.8L Essex V6 Transmission: AX4S, AX4N Automatic Transmissions Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Drum, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Suspension: Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Coil Springs with Watts Linkage Steering: Power Rack and Pinion Electrical: All standard electrical systems, wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, accessories HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System Body: Body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, windows, locks Fuel: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines Exhaust: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I) Repair: Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair, HVAC system repairs Diagnostics: Step-by-step diagnostic trees for various systems, component testing procedures Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component measurements Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component-level repair, and major overhauls. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Software Compatibility: Compatible with Windows operating systems of the era (likely Windows 95/98/NT, may require compatibility mode on modern systems) Searchability: Searchable text content for quick access to information Graphics: Includes diagrams, illustrations, and photographs Binding Type Software Delivery: Distributed on CD-ROM or as a downloadable digital file Paper Type Digital Resolution: High-resolution graphics and text suitable for digital viewing ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Code: Vulcan Engine 1 Displacement: 3.0L (182 cubic inches) Engine 1 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 Engine 1 Horsepower: 145 hp @ 4900 RPM Engine 1 Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 3700 RPM Engine 1 Fuel System: Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 1 Emission Controls: Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Optional Engine Engine 2 Code: Essex Engine 2 Displacement: 3.8L (232 cubic inches) Engine 2 Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 Engine 2 Horsepower: 155 hp @ 4000 RPM Engine 2 Torque: 205 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM Engine 2 Fuel System: Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Performance 0 60 Mph Estimate: 9.5 - 10.5 seconds (Varies by engine and configuration) Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.0 gallons (approx.) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (AX4S/AX4N) Transmission Fluid: Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Features Overdrive: Yes (4th gear) Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan: 199.9 inches Length Wagon: 200.8 inches Width: 73.1 inches Height Sedan: 55.0 inches Height Wagon: 55.6 inches Wheelbase: 107.5 inches Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 103 cubic feet Cargo Cargo Volume Sedan: Approx. 16.1 cubic feet Cargo Volume Wagon: Approx. 39.2 cubic feet (rear seat up) Weights Curb Weight Sedan: 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (approx.) Curb Weight Wagon: 3,500 - 3,700 lbs (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating: 4 Stars (1996 model year) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating: 4 Stars (1996 model year) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Traction Control: Optional (often tied to higher trims or specific packages) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Seatbelts: Three-point front and rear seat belts Child Safety Anchors: Rear seat LATCH anchors not standard; manual refers to child restraint systems. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Premium sound systems available. Climate Control: Manual or Automatic Climate Control systems available. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Connectivity OBD Standard: OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) - requires specific diagnostic tools or procedures for reading fault codes. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 100,000 miles (if original equipment with copper plugs, check manual for specific recommendations for other types). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH certified SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 3.0L, 5.0 quarts (with filter) for 3.8L. Coolant Type: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) Power Steering Fluid: Mercon ATF or equivalent Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Intake Manifold Gasket: Common failure on certain Ford modular engines of this era, leading to coolant...