Segment:
Compact Sedan/Coupe (economy to mid-range)
Competitors:
Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Corsica/Beretta, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla.
Advantages:
Spacious interior for its class, comfortable ride, available all-wheel drive (on some variants), affordable pricing.
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, families, individuals seeking reliable and practical transportation.
Primary Coverage:
1990 Dodge Spirit
Secondary Coverage:
Related Chrysler Corporation P-Body vehicles (e.g., Plymouth Acclaim, Chrysler LeBaron)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by software version, but factory manuals are typically 1000+ pages.
Type:
Online Service and Repair Manual Software (Licensed OE Material)
Format:
Web-based Software (PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet compatible)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, diagnostics, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service, clutch replacement, gearshift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service, fluid changes, internal components, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, disc brakes, drum brakes, hydraulic components, ABS (if equipped), brake bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor).
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service, blower motor, evaporator, condenser.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (for systems with early OBD-I capabilities), symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Wiring Repair:
Specific instructions for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4-star (1990 model year, based on available data for similar vehicles).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models by 1990. Passenger airbag not commonly available.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
If equipped with the Mitsubishi V6, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH classification, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler/Mopar ATF+2 or ATF+3 (or equivalent Mopar ATF+4 for newer equivalents, but stick to specified for 1990).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Automatic transmission issues, particularly with the A604 (Ultradrive) experiencing slipping or shifting problems.
Common Problem 2:
Electrical system gremlins, including headlight switch failures, dashboard warning light issues, and wiring harness degradation.
Common Problem 3:
Rust and corrosion, especially in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and rear quarter panels.
Common Problem 4:
Power steering pump leaks or noisy operation.
Common Problem 5:
Catalytic converter failure or O2 sensor issues leading to poor performance or check engine lights.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for performance and utility vehicles.
P Body Introduction:
The Dodge Spirit was introduced in 1989 as a successor to the Dodge Aries, part of Chrysler's K-Car lineage, and shared the P-body platform with the Plymouth Acclaim and Chrysler LeBaron.
Production Years:
1989-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Newark, Delaware, USA; Toluca, Mexico.
