🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

SX 2.0

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

Unknown (typically associated with the Mitsubishi Eclipse/Eagle Talon platform in North America, but the SX 2.0 was a European market variant likely based on a Mitsubishi platform)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge SX 2.0 was a European market compact car, likely a rebadged or significantly modified version of a Mitsubishi platform (such as the Mitsubishi Carisma or potentially related to the Eclipse/Galant platforms of the era). Its market position was as an affordable, practical compact car, competing in a segment with strong European and Japanese offerings.

Target Demographic:

Likely targeted younger buyers or those seeking an economical and reliable compact car, possibly appealing to first-time car owners or those downsizing.

Competitors:

Likely competed against models such as the Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf, Renault Mégane, and similar compact cars from Japanese manufacturers like Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic during the late 1990s in European markets.

Features:

The manual's key feature is its comprehensive coverage for the specific Dodge SX 2.0 1998 model, providing technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the necessary information for maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, including proprietary component information.

Diy Focus:

Highlights the potential for significant cost savings by enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, bypassing dealership labor and overhead costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Repair and overhaul of Dodge SX 2.0 1998 models

Component Manufacturers:

Includes instructions for proprietary Dodge/Chrysler components as well as those from respective component manufacturers for specialized parts.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publication, but comprehensive workshop manuals typically range from 500-2000+ pages.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics, tune-ups, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system.

Transmission:

Transmission disassembly, assembly, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, potential diagnostics.

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics, lighting, charging system, starting system.

Chassis:

Suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust system, bodywork, interior systems.

Exhaust:

Exhaust system components, including catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, and mounting hardware. Diagnostics for exhaust leaks and emissions-related issues.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, hinges, trim, bumpers, and interior components. Repair procedures for dents, rust, and alignment issues.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, vapor control system, and diagnostic procedures for fuel delivery issues.

Ignition:

Ignition coils, spark plug wires (if applicable), spark plugs, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, ignition control module, and troubleshooting ignition system faults.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, service intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements.

Repair:

Removal and installation procedures for major components, detailed repair instructions for engine, transmission, brakes, etc.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for various systems, identification of common faults.

Assembly Disassembly:

Detailed instructions for the removal and installation of various assemblies and sub-assemblies, from minor trim pieces to major powertrain components.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides to help identify the root cause of various vehicle problems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to extensive engine and transmission disassembly and overhaul. Assumes familiarity with general automotive practices.

Special Tools:

The manual references the need for specific Dodge SX 2.0 special tools and may illustrate them with their associated part numbers for precise adjustments and repairs, such as those for suspension alignment or engine timing.

Torque Specifications:

The manual would contain precise torque specifications for a vast array of fasteners across all systems, crucial for ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage, such as head bolt torque sequences and clutch pressure plate torque.

Diagnostic Tools:

May reference OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) scan tools for engine and system diagnostics, although specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings are the core information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

Printable. Quality dependent on source scan; typically designed for clarity.

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital File)

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

The '2.0' in SX 2.0 strongly suggests a 2.0-liter engine. Given the likely Mitsubishi underpinnings, this would typically be a 4G63-derived engine or a similar inline-four cylinder unit. Specific engine codes (e.g., 4G63) are crucial and would be detailed in the manual.

Horsepower And Torque:

Typical 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engines of this era produced in the range of 110-145 horsepower and 120-140 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific tuning and emission standards of the target market. The manual would provide precise figures.

System Type:

Likely a multi-point fuel injection (MPI) system, common for 2.0-liter engines of this period. The manual would detail fuel pump pressure, injector specifications, and diagnostic procedures.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (typically Octane rating of 91 or higher depending on market specifications).

Cylinder Layout:

Inline 4-cylinder

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated

Valvetrain:

Likely Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve, given the 2.0L displacement and performance expectations of the era, particularly if based on a Mitsubishi 4G63 variant.

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (approx. 1998 cc)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. Details on clutch operation, gearbox internals, and shift mechanisms would be covered.

Type:

An automatic transmission (likely a 4-speed unit) would have been a probable option. The manual would contain specific procedures for its repair and maintenance.

Features:

The manual would detail clutch assembly, flywheel specifications, transmission fluid type and capacity (e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5 for manual, ATF for automatic), and torque specifications for transmission mounts and linkages.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Compact hatchback or sedan. Specific dimensions (length, width, height, wheelbase) would be detailed in the manual.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2500-2600 mm, depending on specific body style (hatchback/sedan) and platform derivation.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight for vehicles of this class typically ranged from 1150-1350 kg (approximately 2500-3000 lbs). Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) would also be specified.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Specific crash test ratings (e.g., Euro NCAP, NHTSA) for the Dodge SX 2.0 are not widely documented as it was a European market variant. The manual would detail safety system components and their functionality.

Features:

Likely included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an option or standard on higher trims. The manual would cover ABS component diagnostics and repair.

Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger were likely standard or optional. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and crumple zones would also be part of the passive safety design, with details on their function and maintenance covered.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player, likely with 4-6 speakers. The manual would cover radio removal/installation and speaker wiring.

Features:

Limited driver assistance technologies by modern standards. Features like power steering and potentially cruise control would be covered in the manual.

Connectivity:

No significant connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports would be expected in a 1998 model. The manual would focus on the vehicle's core electrical and mechanical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. The manual would specify the exact interval and oil type.

Timing Belt:

If belt-driven, likely a replacement interval around 90,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) or 5-7 years. The manual would provide the definitive interval and potentially recommend related components like the water pump and tensioner.

Engine Oil:

Likely SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30, meeting API SJ or similar specifications. The manual would provide the precise grade and API classification. Example: 'MS-6395 for Chrysler specification' or equivalent European standard.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual would specify type (e.g., HOAT or OAT) and capacity. Example: Chrysler's 'Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant' equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. The manual would specify the required DOT standard and capacity for the brake system.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 manual transmission fluid, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity around 2.0-2.5 liters. Manual would specify exact API rating and viscosity.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon ATF or equivalent. Capacity typically 6-8 liters. Manual would specify exact type and capacity.

Power Steering Fluid:

Power steering fluid (likely ATF or a specific power steering fluid blend). Capacity around 1 liter. Manual would specify type.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6-7 liters for the cooling system when mixed 50/50 with water.

Common Problems:

Given its likely Mitsubishi platform, potential common issues could include minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components, and eventual aging of rubber hoses and seals. Specific known issues for the SX 2.0 would be detailed in the manual's troubleshooting section. For example, potential issues with the idle air control valve (IAC) or oxygen sensors.

Common Engine Issues:

Potential for timing belt wear and failure (if applicable, as some Mitsubishi engines used belts), oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, and sensor failures (e.g., coolant temperature sensor, throttle position sensor).

Tune Up Procedures:

Spark plug replacement (type and gap specified), ignition timing adjustment (if applicable, though likely distributorless ignition), idle speed adjustment, PCV valve inspection/replacement, air filter replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Dodge, an American automotive brand with a long history, often produced vehicles for various markets, sometimes leveraging partnerships or rebadging existing models from other manufacturers, especially outside North America. The SX 2.0 represents an example of this global product strategy.

Evolution:

The Dodge SX 2.0 was part of Dodge's European product lineup in the late 1990s. Its development was likely tied to Mitsubishi's global platforms, potentially an adaptation of the Mitsubishi Carisma which was a European-market compact car developed jointly with Volvo. This manual focuses on the specific '98 iteration.

Platform Basis:

Strong likelihood of being based on the Mitsubishi Carisma platform, which itself had some shared components and development with Volvo (S40/V40). This means many procedures might align with Mitsubishi or Volvo service manuals of the era.

Production Period:

The Dodge SX 2.0 was produced in the late 1990s. Specific production numbers and manufacturing locations would be proprietary to Dodge/Chrysler's European operations.