🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Mustang Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: SN95 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 1996 Ford Mustang represented a significant evolution of the Mustang lineage under the SN95 platform, blending iconic styling with updated technology and powertrain options, appealing to performance enthusiasts and a broad consumer base. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competed primarily with the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, offering a compelling blend of V8 performance, sporty handling, and American muscle car heritage. Its design and feature set positioned it as a strong contender in the pony car segment. Key Features Key Features: Introduction of the modular 4.6L SOHC V8 engine, updated interior and exterior styling, improved chassis dynamics, and revised suspension geometry. The '96 model year marked further refinement of the SN95 generation. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, and interior components. Page Count Page Count: Extensive (Digital software implies comprehensive coverage, typically equivalent to thousands of printed pages) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine (4.6L V8, 5.0L V8, 3.8L V6), Fuel and Emissions, Exhaust, Cooling, Lubrication, Ignition, Starting and Charging, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline, Brakes (ABS & Standard), Steering, Suspension, Wheels and Tires, Body Electrical, Climate Control, Lighting, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Procedures Included Procedures Included: Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Component Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Exploded Views, Step-by-Step Instructions. Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Proprietary software format (typically executable or browsable digital interface) Print Quality Print Quality: N/A (Digital format, resolution optimized for screen viewing) Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: 4.6L SOHC Modular V8 Performance 4.6L V8 Horsepower: 215 hp @ 4600 rpm (GT models) 4.6L V8 Torque: 285 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (GT models) Fuel System Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI) Optional Engine Optional Engine: 5.0L OHV V8 (Cobra GT) Optional Engine Performance 5.0L V8 Horsepower: 265 hp @ 4800 rpm (Cobra GT) 5.0L V8 Torque: 305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (Cobra GT) Base Engine Base Engine: 3.8L OHV V6 Base Engine Performance 3.8L V6 Horsepower: 150 hp @ 4000 rpm 3.8L V6 Torque: 215 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission (T-45 for 4.6L, T-5 for 5.0L) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4R70W) Features Transmission Features: Overdrive gearing for fuel efficiency and highway cruising, electronic controls for automatic transmission, robust manual gearboxes for performance driving. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Overall Length: 190.1 inches Overall Width: 70.3 inches Overall Height: 53.2 inches Wheelbase: 101.2 inches Weights Curb Weight: 3,241 - 3,455 lbs (depending on engine and options) Cargo Trunk Capacity: 13.6 cubic feet 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: Not rated (as per industry standards of the era for many vehicles) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: Not rated (as per industry standards of the era for many vehicles) Passive Features Passive Features: Dual front airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced safety cage construction, side-impact door beams. Active Features Active Features: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for front wheels (standard on Cobra models), power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment Features: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, basic digital clock, standard speaker system, optional premium sound system. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise control, power steering, optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by era; primarily analog systems. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Antennas for radio reception. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations). Engine Coolant Change: Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Transmission Fluid Change Auto: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-3 years. Transmission Fluid Change Manual: Every 60,000-100,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: SAE 5W-30 (API SG or SH rated) for 4.6L & 5.0L V8; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 3.8L V6. (Consult manual for exact viscosity and API service classification). Coolant Specification: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green), or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water in a 50/50 mix. Automatic Transmission Fluid: MERCON V (or MERCON compatible) Manual Transmission Fluid: ATF, Type F (for T-5); MERCON V or equivalent for T-45. (Verify with manual). Known Issues Known Issues: Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on early 4.6L modulars), aging cooling system components (radiator, hoses), worn suspension bushings, and occasional electrical gremlins common...