🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercury Model: Tracer Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: CDW27 (shared with Ford Escort) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: Compact car, positioned as an affordable and fuel-efficient option within the Mercury lineup Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Escort (mechanical twin), Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra Key Features Key Features: Reliability, fuel economy, practical interior space, accessible price point Licensing Licensing: Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials Vendor Vendor: RepairSurge Access Duration Access Duration: 1 Year (with discounts for renewal) Device Compatibility Device Compatibility: PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet (requires internet connection and web browser) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Comprehensive service and repair for all major vehicle systems Page Count Page Count: Not specified, digital access provided Manual Type Manual Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Software/Web-based Access 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control Drivetrain Systems: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch system, drive axles, front-wheel drive components Suspension Steering: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment Brake Systems: Front brakes, rear brakes, parking brake, anti-lock braking system (ABS) Electrical Systems: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body electricals, wiring diagrams HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair Body Interior: Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication Repair Procedures: Component removal and installation, internal component repair, system diagnosis and repair Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides Technical Depth Technical Depth: Factory-derived, comprehensive for professional technicians and advanced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Proprietary Web-based Access (compatible with web browsers) Print Quality Print Quality: N/A (digital format) Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (digital format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder Engine Displacement: 1.9 L (1859 cc) Engine Code: RFA (North American Specification) Horsepower: 105 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate) Torque: 115 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Performance Ignition System: Electronic Ignition System (EIS), Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some variants Emissions Control: Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Transmission Fluid Type: Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (for automatic transmission) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 100.3 inches (2548 mm) Length: 171.6 inches (4359 mm) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 53.8 inches (1367 mm) (Sedan) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4 x 100 mm Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg) depending on configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: Not Rated (as per 1996 standards, detailed data may be limited) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: Not Rated (as per 1996 standards, detailed data may be limited) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point front and rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Base AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited; ABS was optional, no advanced electronic driver aids common today Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A (pre-internet era in vehicle connectivity) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, consult manual for exact specification) Engine Coolant Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first (typical for the era, consult manual for exact specification) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (consult manual) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (consult manual for temperature range) Engine Coolant Type: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Issues: Transmission synchro wear (manual), cooling system leaks (heater core, radiator), ignition coil failure, wheel bearing premature wear Tire Size Tire Size: Common sizes include 185/65R14, 195/60R14 (check specific trim) 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Heritage: Mercury was positioned as a premium marque of Ford Motor Company, offering more upscale styling and features than standard Ford models. Model Evolution Generation: Second Generation Mercury Tracer (1991-1999), this 1996 model falls within the facelifted version of this generation. Production Manufacturing Location: Hermosillo, Mexico (shared with Ford Escort) 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Recognitions: Generally considered a competent and affordable compact car for its era, often praised for fuel efficiency.