This comprehensive owner's manual for the 1996 Mercury Mystique is an essential guide for every owner. The manual covers a wide range of topics, including vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety features. It provides detailed information on the Mystique's engine, transmission, braking system, and other key components. You'll find explanations of various warning lights and gauges, as well as instructions on how to perform routine maintenance tasks such as changing the oil and checking tire pressure. The manual also includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section to assist you in diagnosing and resolving common issues. It further details the safety features of the Mystique, encompassing information on airbags, seat belts, and child safety restraints. Moreover, the manual includes a section dedicated to the vehicle's audio system, climate control, and other comfort features, ensuring you can make the most of your driving experience. Finally, you will find a glossary of important terms and a detailed index for quick and easy reference.

The 1996 Mercury Mystique was a compact car that represented a departure from Mercury's traditional large and luxurious offerings. Introduced in 1995, the Mystique was designed to appeal to younger buyers seeking a stylish and practical vehicle. It was based on the Ford Contour platform, sharing its underpinnings and powertrains with its mechanically identical Ford sibling. Despite its Ford origins, the Mystique was distinguished by its Mercury-specific styling, which incorporated a more refined and sophisticated design language. The exterior featured a distinctive grille, sleek headlights, and a flowing body line, creating a visually appealing and modern aesthetic. Its compact size made it maneuverable in urban environments while offering a comfortable and spacious interior, capable of accommodating five passengers with relative ease.

The 1996 Mercury Mystique was available with a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 1.8-liter Zetec engine producing 125 horsepower or a 2.0-liter Zetec engine producing 130 horsepower. Both engines were known for their smooth operation and fuel efficiency, offering a balance of performance and economy. The Mystique was offered in a variety of trim levels, ranging from the base LX model to the more luxurious GS and GT versions. Standard features included power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Higher trim levels added amenities such as leather upholstery, an upgraded sound system, and anti-lock brakes. While the Mystique was not known for its sporty handling or performance, it provided a comfortable and refined driving experience, making it an appealing option for daily commuting and family outings.