Ford Sierra (1982-93)

The **Ford Sierra** had its share of common issues. Here are some to watch out for:

1. **Rough Idling**: If your car idles roughly, uses more oil than usual, and emits blue smoke from the exhaust, worn valve seals might be the culprit. Consider replacing them.
2. **Poor Performance**: A noticeable drop in performance could indicate a fuel pump problem. Address it promptly to prevent piston damage.
3. **Hesitant Gear Changes**: Struggling with gear changes? Your clutch cable may be on its last legs. Replace it to ensure smooth shifting.
4. **Difficult 2nd to 3rd Gear Change**: Premature wear of synchros on 2nd and 3rd gears is common. Replacing them is essential to avoid further gearbox issues¹.
5. **Overheating**: Some Sierras faced overheating problems. Check for blockages in the upper small hose connected to the expansion tank.
6. **ABS Light on Dashboard**: If the ABS light stays on, it's likely a faulty ABS sensor. Diagnostic check and sensor replacement are necessary.
7. **Erratic Speedo Needle**: Unsteady speedometer needle behavior can occur. Keep an eye on it.

Remember, regular maintenance and timely repairs can keep your Sierra running smoothly!
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Body Styles/Variants:
The Sierra came in various bodystyles, including 3/5-door liftback, 4-door saloon, and 5-door estate
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Engines
The Ford Sierra came with a variety of engines. Here are some of the notable ones:
1. OHC 1.6 & 2.0L “Pinto” Engine:
o 4-cylinder inline engine with an overhead belt-driven camshaft.
o Installed in models like Cortina, MK3 to MK5, Escort MK1 & MK2, Taunus, Granada, Sierra, Scorpio, and Transit MK2 to MK4.
2. DOHC 2.0L 8V Engine:
o 4-cylinder inline engine with two overhead camshafts driven by a timing chain.
o Initially had 8 valves, later available with 16 valves.
o Found in Escort MK5 to MK7, Sierra, Scorpio, Galaxy, and Transit MK5 & MK6.
3. DOHC 2.0L Cosworth Engine:
o 4-cylinder inline engine with 16 valves and two overhead camshafts.
o Turbocharged and developed by Cosworth for rally and racing use.
o Used in Sierra “RS Cosworth” and Escorts from 1992 to 1996.
4. CVH 1.6 & 1.8L Engine:
o 4-cylinder inline engine with an overhead camshaft and belt drive.
o Valves arranged in a V-shape in the hemispherical combustion chamber.
o Installed in Escort MK3 to MK7, Fiesta MK2 & MK3, and Sierra MK2.
5. V6 2.0-2.9L “Cologne” Engine:
o OHV engine with camshaft located in the engine block.
o Cast iron engine block and cylinder heads.
o Used in various models until 1996, including Sierra, Scorpio, and Transit.
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Performance
The Ford Sierra, produced between 1982 and 1993, had a variety of engine options and performance levels. Here are some key details:

### Engine Options and Performance

1. **1.3-litre Pinto I4**:
- **Power**: 60 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 95 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 16.0 seconds.

2. **1.6-litre Pinto I4**:
- **Power**: 75 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 105 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 14.0 seconds.

3. **2.0-litre Pinto I4**:
- **Power**: 105 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 115 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 10.5 seconds.

4. **2.0-litre DOHC I4**:
- **Power**: 125 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 120 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 9.5 seconds.

5. **2.8-litre Cologne V6**:
- **Power**: 150 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 130 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 8.0 seconds.

6. **2.0-litre Cosworth Turbo I4** (RS Cosworth):
- **Power**: 204 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 150 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 6.5 seconds.

### Notable Models
- **Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth**:
- **Power**: 220 bhp.
- **Top Speed**: 153 mph.
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: 6.4 seconds.

The Sierra was known for its aerodynamic styling and was available in various body styles, including hatchback, saloon, and estate. It was a popular choice for both family use and motorsport.
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Trim Levels
The Ford Sierra, produced from 1982 to 1993, came in several trim levels throughout its production run. Here are some of the key trim levels:

1. **Base/Saloon**: The entry-level model.
2. **L**: A step up from the base model with more features.
3. **GL**: Offered additional comfort and convenience features.
4. **Ghia**: The top-of-the-line trim with luxury features.
5. **XR4i**: A sporty version introduced in 1983 with a 150bhp V6 engine.
6. **XR4x4**: Introduced in 1985, featuring all-wheel drive.
7. **RS Cosworth**: High-performance model introduced in 1986.
8. **RS500**: A limited-edition, high-performance variant of the RS Cosworth.
9. **Sapphire**: A four-door saloon version introduced in 1987.

Each trim level offered different features and performance options, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.
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Spares
If you’re looking for Ford Sierra spare parts in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:
1. AUTODOC UK: You can find a wide range of car parts for the Sierra on the AUTODOC UK website. They offer brake discs, shock absorbers, engine oil, filters, and more.
2. Ford Online Shop: Visit the Ford Online Shop for genuine Ford parts. They provide OEM quality parts for various Ford models, including the Sierra.
3. Find A Spare: While primarily focused on home and garden parts, Find A Spare also offers car parts. Check their website for availability in the UK.
4. EUSPARES: Another option is EUSPARES, where you can find OE original parts for the Sierra. They offer free delivery on orders over £140.
5. AutoVillage: If you’re open to used parts, AutoVillage sources and supplies discounted Ford Sierra car spares. They deliver directly to your door.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND FORD SPECIALIST LIST**

Ford specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Services: Maintenance, repairs, pre-purchase inspections, full restorations.
2. ACSR Ltd
o Address: 24 Antrim Road, Crumlin BT29 4DX
o Phone: 028 9446 2841
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Services: Servicing, repairs, spares.
3. TrustFord Ballymena Car & Transit Centre
o Address: 14 Larne Rd, Ballymena BT42 3HB
o Phone: 0343 317 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 07:45 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.
4. TrustFord Belfast - Mallusk Car & Transit Centre
o Address: 31 Mallusk Rd, Newtownabbey BT36 4PP
o Phone: 028 9083 7700
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 18:00, Saturday 08:30 - 15:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: Tandragee, Co. Armagh
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Services: Repairs, servicing, MOT, PSV for both Ford vans and cars.
2. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: Armagh
o Phone: Available upon request
o Services: Servicing and maintenance for all makes and models, including Ford.
3. Approved Garages
o Location: Various locations in County Armagh
o Services: MOT, servicing, and repairs for Ford vehicles.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. TrustFord Belfast - Newtownards Road Ford Store
o Address: 391-397 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3LH
o Phone: 028 9065 4687
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 18:00, Saturday 08:30 - 15:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.
2. TrustFord Belfast Fleet Service Centre
o Address: 16 Maryland Industrial Estate, 286 Ballygowan Road, Belfast BT23 6BL
o Phone: 028 9044 9450
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:30
o Services: Fleet servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
3. The Motor Gym
o Address: 18A Balloo Avenue, Bangor BT19 7QT
o Phone: 028 9145 3310
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing and repairs, specialising in Ford.
4. The Dent Man NI
o Address: Bangor, County Down
o Phone: Available upon request
o Services: Dent removal and car body repairs.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Pat Kirk Ltd.
o Address: 53 Brookmount Road, Omagh BT78 5HZ
o Phone: 028 8225 0777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
2. Monaghan Bros
o Address: 1-3 Main Street, Lisnaskea BT92 0JB
o Phone: 028 6772 1147
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: Servicing, repairs, and MOT for Ford vehicles.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Desmond Motors
o Address: 173 Strand Road, Londonderry BT48 7PU
o Phone: 028 7136 7137
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, MOT, repairs, and maintenance2.
2. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd
o Address: 1A Drumahoe Road, Londonderry BT47 3SD
o Phone: 028 7130 1234
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: Vehicle repairs, servicing, and maintenance.
3. ClickMechanic
o Location: Various locations in Londonderry
o Services: Mobile mechanics offering servicing and repairs for Ford vehicles.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Pat Kirk Ltd.
o Address: 53 Brookmount Road, Omagh BT78 5HZ
o Phone: 028 8225 0777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
2. Approved Garages
o Location: Various locations in County Tyrone
o Services: MOT, servicing, and repairs for Ford vehicles.
3. ClickMechanic
o Location: Various locations in County Tyrone
o Services: Mobile mechanics offering servicing and repairs for Ford vehicles.
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Racing
The Ford Sierra was quite successful in motorsport! It competed in various racing series, including:

1. **Touring Car Championships**: The Sierra RS Cosworth and RS500 were particularly dominant in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and other European touring car series during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
2. **Rallying**: The Sierra XR4x4 and RS Cosworth also saw action in rallying, including the World Rally Championship (WRC).
3. **Endurance Racing**: The Sierra RS500 competed in endurance races like the 24 Hours of Spa and the Bathurst 1000, achieving notable success.

The Sierra's combination of power, handling, and reliability made it a favorite among racers and enthusiasts alike.

Liveries
The Ford Sierra had several iconic liveries, especially in its racing variants. Some of the most memorable ones include:

1. **Texaco Livery**: The black and red Texaco livery on the Sierra RS500 is one of the most iconic. It was used by the Eggenberger Motorsport team in the European Touring Car Championship.
2. **Bastos Livery**: This red and white livery was used by the RAS Sport team in various touring car championships.
3. **Shell Livery**: The yellow and red Shell livery was another popular design, often seen in endurance races like the Bathurst 1000.
4. **Q8 Livery**: The blue and white Q8 livery was used by the Andy Rouse Engineering team in the BTCC.

These liveries not only made the cars stand out on the track but also became a significant part of motorsport history.

Several famous drivers raced in Ford Sierras, particularly in the touring car and rallying scenes. Some notable names include:

1. **Andy Rouse**: A British touring car legend, Rouse had significant success with the Sierra RS500 in the BTCC.
2. **Steve Soper**: Another prominent British driver, Soper was known for his performances in the Sierra RS500 in various touring car championships.
3. **Klaus Ludwig**: A German driver who achieved great success with the Sierra RS500 in the European Touring Car Championship.
4. **Dick Johnson**: An Australian racing icon, Johnson drove the Sierra RS500 in the Australian Touring Car Championship and the Bathurst 1000.
5. **Carlos Sainz**: The Spanish rally driver competed in the Sierra XR4x4 and RS Cosworth in the World Rally Championship before moving on to even greater success with other manufacturers.

These drivers helped cement the Sierra's reputation as a formidable competitor in motorsport.
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