🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Escort Year: 1996 Codes Platform: Third Generation (1991–1996) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Ford Escort owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts Value Proposition: Provides factory-specific information to reduce repair costs and improve vehicle maintenance Competitive Analysis Competitors: Aftermarket repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton) which may lack the depth and accuracy of factory documentation Key Features Uniqueness: Exact same manual used by dealership technicians Convenience: Single, searchable PDF for easy navigation and targeted printing 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Full Model Range: All models, all trims Repair Scope: A-Z, comprehensive repairs Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Delivery: Digital Download (Speed Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete service, diagnosis, and repair Control System: Engine control unit (ECU), emissions control Mechanical: Engine mechanical, body mechanical Fuel Service: Fuel delivery, fuel system components, specifications Emission Control: Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems Intake Exhaust Cooling: Cooling system, intake manifold, exhaust system Lube: Lubrication systems, fluid specifications Ignition Starting Charging: Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery) Auto Transmission Clutch: Automatic transmission service, clutch system (where applicable) Manual Transmission: Manual transmission service, clutch system Transfer Propeller Shaft: Drivetrain components (if applicable to specific models) Drive Shaft: Drive shafts, CV joints Differential: Differential service and repair Axle Suspension: Front and rear suspension, axles Tire Wheel: Tire and wheel specifications, mounting, balancing Brake Control: Brake system control, ABS (if equipped) Brake: Disc and drum brake service, hydraulic systems Parking Brake: Parking brake system service Steering Column: Steering column, ignition lock Power Steering: Power steering system service Air Condition: Air conditioning system service, diagnosis, and recharge Suppl Restraint System: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) / Airbag system (diagnosis and component replacement) Seat Belt: Seat belt system service and inspection Engine Immobilizer: Engine immobilizer system (if equipped) Cruise Control: Cruise control system service Wiper Washer: Wiper and washer system service Door Lock: Door lock mechanisms, central locking system Meter Audio Visual: Instrument cluster, audio system, visual displays Horn: Horn system service Windshield Glass Mirror: Windshield, glass, mirrors, replacement Instrument Panel: Instrument panel removal and installation, components Seat: Seat adjustment mechanisms, removal and installation Engine Hood Door: Hood, door, and trunk lid operation and adjustment Exterior Interior: Exterior trim, interior trim, body panels Electrical: Complete vehicle electrical system, components, troubleshooting Multiplex Can Communication: Multiplex communication systems (if applicable to specific modules) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all systems Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II relevant) Installation: Component installation and removal procedures Wiring Schematics: Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level detailed, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers Illustrations: High-quality diagrams and illustrations Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid types, capacities 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable: Yes (as standard for PDF manuals) Print Quality Printability: Fully printable, individual pages or sections can be printed Image Scaling: Images can be enlarged for clearer viewing and printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) Software Requirements Reader: Adobe PDF Reader (free) Unzip: Winzip or equivalent (free online) Operating System Compatibility: Windows and Mac (All Versions) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 1.9L SPI (SOHC) I4; 1.8L Zetec (DOHC) I4 Performance Horsepower 1.9L: Approx. 88 hp @ 4800 rpm (Varies by year/trim) Torque 1.9L: Approx. 108 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (Varies by year/trim) Horsepower 1.8L Zetec: Approx. 118 hp @ 6000 rpm (Varies by year/trim) Torque 1.8L Zetec: Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (Varies by year/trim) Fuel System Fuel Delivery System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission (MTX-75 or IB5) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (AX4S or AX4N) Features Transmission Fluid Spec: Mercon V (for automatics), GL-4 Gear Oil (for manuals - specific weights will be in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Sedan (4-door), Hatchback (3-door, 5-door), Wagon (5-door) Wheelbase: Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm) Length: Varies by body style, typically 168.3 - 173.7 inches (4275 - 4412 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500-2900 lbs (1134-1315 kg), varies by model and equipment 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings 1996: Frontal: Driver - ★★★★, Passenger - ★★★★ (Based on general testing for this era, specific ratings may vary) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags (SRS) Seatbelts: Front seat pretensioner seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on many trims Connectivity Connectivity Features: Basic, primarily focused on internal vehicle systems, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever...
Fully printable, individual pages or sections can be printed
Image Scaling:
Images can be enlarged for clearer viewing and printing
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Software Requirements
Reader:
Adobe PDF Reader (free)
Unzip:
Winzip or equivalent (free online)
Operating System Compatibility:
Windows and Mac (All Versions)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
1.9L SPI (SOHC) I4; 1.8L Zetec (DOHC) I4
Performance
Horsepower 1.9L:
Approx. 88 hp @ 4800 rpm (Varies by year/trim)
Torque 1.9L:
Approx. 108 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (Varies by year/trim)
Horsepower 1.8L Zetec:
Approx. 118 hp @ 6000 rpm (Varies by year/trim)
Torque 1.8L Zetec:
Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (Varies by year/trim)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MTX-75 or IB5)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AX4S or AX4N)
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mercon V (for automatics), GL-4 Gear Oil (for manuals - specific weights will be in manual)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Hatchback (3-door, 5-door), Wagon (5-door)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
Varies by body style, typically 168.3 - 173.7 inches (4275 - 4412 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500-2900 lbs (1134-1315 kg), varies by model and equipment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1996:
Frontal: Driver - ★★★★, Passenger - ★★★★ (Based on general testing for this era, specific ratings may vary)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioner seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many trims
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Basic, primarily focused on internal vehicle systems, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (Consult manual for exact interval and oil type)
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater core
Common Problem 2:
Transmission solenoids or torque converter issues in automatic transmissions
Common Problem 3:
Window regulator failure, especially in older models
Common Problem 4:
Ignition switch or related electrical component failures
Common Problem 5:
Exhaust system corrosion and leaks
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Ford Motor Company
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation (JN1)
Facelift:
The 1995 model year saw a significant facelift for the third generation, with revised styling and improved interior, which carried into 1996.
Production
Production Period For Gen:
1990-1996 (North America), later in other markets
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Market Reputation:
The Ford Escort was a very popular compact car in its time, known for affordability and practicality, though not typically lauded for performance or luxury features.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.