Target Audience:
Families, individuals requiring flexible passenger and cargo transport.
Key Competitors:
Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna.
Design Philosophy:
Practicality, passenger comfort, versatile interior configurations.
Powertrain Options:
Known for reliable V6 engines, front-wheel drive configuration.
Interior Versatility:
Often featured removable or stowable rear seating for maximized cargo space.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE), clutch system (if applicable), torque converter.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheel bearings, drive axles/CV joints.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), HVAC controls, audio system, body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, interior trim, glass, bumpers, frame/unibody structure, collision repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, alternator), transmission overhaul, brake system repair (calipers, rotors, lines), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints), steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing, engine performance issues, transmission shifting problems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, diagnostic procedures for specific modules, wiring diagrams, component locations, pressure specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers diagnostic procedures, repair methods, and specifications required for full vehicle service.
Engine Code Common:
EER (3.0L V6 SOHC)
Engine Description:
3.0L (181 cu in) naturally aspirated V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 12 valves.
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.13 in (89.0 mm x 79.5 mm)
Horsepower Est:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Est:
170 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30
Spark Plug Type:
Champion RC12LYC or equivalent
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Chain (for the 3.0L V6)
Cooling System Capacity Quarts:
10.5
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Common Model:
41TE / 42LE (based on engine)
Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent (Check manual for specific PN)
Fluid Capacity Quarts:
7.0 (with filter change, approximately)
Shift Control:
Electronic pressure control with Powertrain Control Module (PCM) integration.
Curb Weight Lbs:
3800 - 4000 (approximate, varies by trim and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
5300 - 5500 (approximate)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row Cu Ft:
Approximately 20-30 cu ft (varies by configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row Cu Ft:
Approximately 80-100 cu ft (varies by configuration)
Cargo Volume Max Cu Ft:
Approximately 140-160 cu ft (all seats removed/stowed)
Standard Tire Size:
P215/65R16
Optional Tire Size:
P215/70R15 (early models or specific trims)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Wheel Size:
16 x 6.5 inches (standard)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Four-star (typically for this era, check specific VIN for precise data)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, with pretensioners for front seats.
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system typically introduced in later models, but check for specific anchors or recommendations in manual.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Display:
Basic instrument cluster with analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature). No integrated navigation or advanced displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional, depending on trim level.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional feature on some trims.
Auxiliary Ports:
None typically integrated from factory.
Diagnostics Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port for emissions and engine diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (10W-30) or 5,000-7,500 miles (5W-30 Synthetic) depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or more frequently under severe driving conditions. Manual is critical here.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years initially, then potentially longer intervals with modern coolants.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on specific vehicle application. Consult manual.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Mopar compatible fluid.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Common issue with the 41TE/42LE transmission, often related to solenoid pack failure or internal wear. Manual covers diagnostics and repair.
Overheating:
Can occur due to radiator blockages, fan clutch issues, or water pump failure. Manual details cooling system diagnosis.
Power Window Motors:
Motors and regulators can fail over time. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Rear Suspension Sag:
Can be caused by worn springs or shocks. Manual covers suspension component inspection and replacement.
Door Lock Actuator Failure:
Common wear item in power door lock systems. Manual assists with diagnosis and replacement.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis)
Generation:
Third Generation (NS), produced from 1996 to 2000.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager.
Design Changes 1999:
Likely received minor updates or package adjustments for the 1999 model year, building on the 1996 redesign.
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada (primary)