Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Value-oriented car buyers, families.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Tempo, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla.
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, practical design, decent fuel economy.
Trim Levels:
Varied across years, typically including base, LE, and ES models, offering different feature packages.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carbureted & injected), ignition system.
Engine Performance:
Emissions control systems, diagnosis and testing of engine performance issues.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, adjustments, clutch, drivetrain components.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkages, alignment specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, wheel bearings.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, fuses, relays.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame and unitized body construction, corrosion prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, diagnosis, and service.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injection system (EFI) components, carburetor service.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common problems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and exploded views for component identification and assembly.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnostics and repairs.
Searchable:
Likely searchable PDF, enhancing ease of use.
Printability:
Fully Printable
Zoom Capability:
YES (Zoom IN/OUT)
Binding:
Digital (PDF - Print as needed)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent decompression utility)
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Options:
2.5L (153 cu in) 4-cylinder (Throttle Body Injection or Multi-Point Fuel Injection), 3.0L (181 cu in) V6 (Multi-Point Fuel Injection).
2.5L I4 Hp:
Approximately 100-107 hp depending on year and fuel system.
2.5L I4 Torque:
Approximately 130-136 lb-ft depending on year and fuel system.
3.0L V6 Hp:
Approximately 141-147 hp.
3.0L V6 Torque:
Approximately 170-177 lb-ft.
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) and Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI), carburetor on some early models (less common).
Common 4 Cylinder Engine Codes:
G22B, G22A (various suffixes for specific calibrations)
Common V6 Engine Codes:
6G71 (various suffixes)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.7 inches
Length:
Approximately 176.3 inches
Width:
Approximately 67.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 53.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 2700 lbs to 3000 lbs depending on engine and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 3600-3800 lbs.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs and filters around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on component type and driving.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher.
Coolant Type:
Refer to manual: typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Chrysler OAT or HOAT coolant may be recommended for later years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 recommended.
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks, oil leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V6), carburetor/fuel injection issues, timing belt replacement (if applicable, though some were timing chains).
Common Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission harsh shifting or slipping, particularly the A-604 Ultradrive which could be problematic.
Common Electrical Issues:
Instrument cluster failures, power window/lock issues, alternator and starter motor wear.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links.
