Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, enthusiasts seeking affordable and modifiable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Platform:
Chrysler's first original platform developed in-house, known for its unique cab-forward design.
Design:
Distinctive cab-forward styling with a spacious interior for its class.
Value Proposition:
Offered a compelling balance of price, features, and interior space, often at a lower price point than key rivals.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (including operation, diagnosis, and repair).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body electrical (power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, wipers, horn), HVAC electrical controls, audio system.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Safety:
Airbag system, seat belts, passive restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil change, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing procedures for components.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system repairs, engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake service, suspension repair, electrical circuit repair.
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, diagnostic charts.
Technical Data:
Component identification, part numbers, fluid capacities, fluid types, lubricant specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians alike.
Engine Code:
SOHC 2.0L (1996cc) I4
Engine Description:
Single Overhead Camshaft, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, multi-point fuel injection.
Horsepower:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
Proprietary Chrysler Engine Controller (e.g., NGC - Next Generation Controller or similar iteration)
Catalytic Converter:
Standard, 3-way catalytic converter
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (TorqueFlite A604 or similar variant)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual, typically around 3.50:1 for first gear.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (specific type and capacity in manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification as per manual).
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
Not Rated (for 1999 model year, data often unavailable or varied)
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
Not Rated (for 1999 model year, data often unavailable or varied)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not generally available for this model year.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard in this era.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact detail).
Engine Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 50,000-70,000 miles; Manual: 60,000-80,000 miles (check manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SG/SH or higher, refer to manual for exact spec).
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler 5/100 Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or specified power steering fluid).
Engine Performance:
Occasional issues with engine mounts, coil packs, and ignition components leading to misfires. Some reports of oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission may experience shifting issues or solenoid failures. Clutch wear in manual transmissions.
Suspension And Steering:
Ball joint and tie rod wear, power steering pump leaks, and strut mounts are common wear items.
Electrical:
Window regulators, power lock actuators, and instrument cluster failures are sometimes reported.
Cooling System:
Radiator hose leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump issues.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation
Generation:
First Generation (1995-1999)
Major Updates For 1999:
Minor styling tweaks, potential for enhanced safety features, updated interior materials depending on trim.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (and potentially other North American plants)
Production Start Year:
1995
Production End Year Generation:
1999