Market Segment:
Compact car, budget-friendly, value-oriented transportation
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling for its segment, practical interior, affordable ownership
Target Audience:
Young drivers, first-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), emission control systems (EVAP, EGR)
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (e.g., Getrag) overhaul, clutch system, shift linkages
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., Aisin) overhaul, valve body, torque converter, hydraulic controls
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive axles, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, steering knuckles, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion assembly, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, power booster, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Chassis:
Frame, unibody construction, structural components
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for all intervals
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component and system
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, suspension parts, brakes, etc.
Diagnostics And Testing:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, electrical circuits, and mechanical components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-quality electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their associated diagnostic procedures
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Special Tools:
Identifies specific Chrysler special tools required for certain procedures
Engine Code:
Various, e.g., 2.0L SOHC I4 (AGK, ABE), 2.4L DOHC I4 (ED3)
Displacement:
1996 cc (2.0L) for base models; 2378 cc (2.4L) for ACR and later models
Horsepower:
Approx. 132 hp for 2.0L SOHC; 145 hp for 2.4L DOHC; up to 170 hp for ACR models
Torque:
Approx. 130 lb-ft for 2.0L SOHC; 150 lb-ft for 2.4L DOHC
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Specify pressure range as per manual (e.g., 39-49 psi)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (consult manual for specific grade)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 70,000-100,000 miles (for 2.0L SOHC AGK/ABE engines, check manual for exact interval)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (synthetic or conventional, refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service category)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Pink Coolant or equivalent Mopar HOAT/OAT
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine:
Head gasket failures (especially earlier models), oil leaks, piston slap (some early 2.0L engines)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission issues (e.g., delayed shifting, slipping), clutch wear (manual)
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, ball joints
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, BCM (Body Control Module) issues
Body:
Rusting (especially in road salt areas), interior trim degradation
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
Generations:
First Generation (1995-2000), Second Generation (2000-2005)
Notable Trims:
ES, SE, RT, ACR (American Club Racer), ACR-X
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
1995-2005