Market Segment:
Compact car, retro-styled hatchback, popular for its distinctive design and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra (during its primary production years).
Distinctive Styling:
Retro-modern design inspired by 1930s hot rods and classic cars.
Interior Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements, including a 'Mega-Mode' for maximum cargo space.
Powertrain Options:
Range of efficient four-cylinder engines and availability of a turbocharged 'GT' variant for increased performance.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing systems.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmission service, removal and installation, internal components, torque converter, valve body, shift control, transmission fluid service, diagnostics.
Brakes Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake bleeding, caliper, rotor, pad replacement, parking brake, brake system diagnostics.
Steering Suspension Systems:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, ball joints, control arms, struts, shock absorbers, wheel alignment, suspension geometry, wheel bearings.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant servicing, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module, diagnostics.
Body Chassis Systems:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, structural repair, corrosion protection.
Driver Information Systems:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, trip computer, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems, including wiring schematics and test procedures.
Repair Replacements:
Detailed instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and installing major vehicle components and sub-assemblies.
Component Rebuilds:
Instructions for overhauling or rebuilding key components such as engines and transmissions.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, circuit descriptions, and troubleshooting guides for all electrical systems.
Safety System Service:
Procedures for servicing airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and ABS components, with specific safety precautions.
Technical Depth:
Dealer-level comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and structural repairs.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year, representative for 2009)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year, representative for 2009)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year, representative for 2009)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year, representative for 2009)
IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Rating:
Good (for 2007 model year, representative for 2009)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. (Check manual for severe conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (using Iridium spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed or every 60,000 miles under severe conditions. (Consult manual for specific guidance).
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (Chrysler MS-6395 approved)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Pink Formula (Chrysler MS-9769 or MS-12106).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) or specific power steering fluid as per manual.
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, occasional EGR valve issues, spark plug blow-out on early models (less common by 2009).
Common Issues Transmission:
Transmission slipping or delayed engagement (often related to fluid level/condition or solenoid issues).
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), power steering pump whine or leaks.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, sometimes instrument cluster failures.
Common Issues Body:
Interior trim rattles, occasional issues with the rear hatch struts.
Chrysler Heritage:
Chrysler Corporation, a historic American automaker known for innovation and iconic models like the Imperial and 300 letter series.
First Generation Debut:
Introduced for the 2001 model year as a 2001 model.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Received a minor refresh for the 2007 model year, including updated styling, interior enhancements, and powertrain revisions.
2009 Model Year Updates:
Maintained its refreshed styling from 2007, with minor feature packaging adjustments. Offered in various trims like SE, SXT, and the sportier 'GT Cruiser' package.
Production Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Run:
2001-2010 (US Market)