Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Inspection and Verification

1. Road test.

• Verify the customer's concern by performing a road test on a smooth road.

2. Inspect tires.

• Check the tire pressure with all normal loads in the vehicle and the tires cold. For additional information, refer to the vehicle certification (VC) label.
• Verify that all tires are sized to specification.
• Inspect the tires for incorrect wear and damage.

3. Inspect chassis and underbody.

• Remove any excessive accumulation of mud, dirt or road deposits from the chassis and underbody.

4. Inspect for aftermarket equipment.

• Check for aftermarket changes to the steering, suspension, wheel and tire components (such as competition, heavy duty, etc.) The specifications shown in this manual do not apply to vehicles equipped with aftermarket equipment.

5. Inspect shock absorbers.

All vehicles are equipped with gas-pressurized hydraulic shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are not adjustable or refillable and cannot be repaired.

• Oil Leak: A light film of oil (weepage) on the upper portion of the shock absorber is permissible and is a result or correct shock lubrication. Weepage is a condition in which a film of oil accumulates on the thin tube (body) and is normally noticed due to the collection of dust in this area. If shock absorbers exhibit this weepage condition, they are functional units and new shock absorbers should not be installed. Leakage is a condition in which the entire shock absorber body is covered with oil and the oil will drip from the shock absorber onto the pavement. If condition exists:

• Make sure fluid observed is not from sources other than the shock absorber.
• Install a new shock absorber, if necessary.

• Vehicle Sag: Many times new shock absorbers are installed in an effort to solve a vehicle sag concern. Shock absorbers by design are hydraulic damping units only and, unlike suspension springs, do not support any suspension loads. Therefore, installing a new shock absorber will not correct a vehicle sag concern.
• Installment in Pairs: In the past it was recommended that new shock absorbers be installed in pairs if one unit became unrepairable. New shock absorbers no longer need to be installed in pairs when only one unit is not repairable.

Visual Inspection Chart

Mechanical

• Front wheel bearing(s)
• Loose or damaged front or rear suspension components
• Loose, damaged or missing suspension fastener(s)
• Damaged spring(s)
• Damaged or leaking strut and spring assemblies
• Damaged or leaking shock absorber(s)
• Worn or damaged suspension bushing(s)
• Loose, worn or damaged steering system components
• Damaged axle components

6. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported condition is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

7. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom and GO to Symptom Chart .