Segment:
Compact Car / Retro-styled Compact Car
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive retro styling reminiscent of 1930s and 1940s hot rods and custom cars, available as both a sedan and a convertible.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Beetle, Mini Cooper, Ford Focus (in its segment)
Styling:
Iconic '30s-inspired styling, distinctive grille, rounded fenders, and upright windshield.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated convertible soft top with a heated glass rear window.
Engine Operation:
Starting procedures, engine break-in, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid checks (if applicable), shifting procedures
Brakes:
Brake system overview, parking brake, ABS operation
Steering:
Power steering system, steering wheel controls
Electrical:
Lighting system, power outlets, fuses, battery maintenance, wipers and washers
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation
Infotainment:
Audio system operation, radio, CD player, speaker layout
Comfort Convenience:
Seats, power windows, power locks, convertible top operation, mirrors
Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster indicators, warning lights, gauges, trip computer
Starting Operation:
Keyless entry, remote start (if equipped), ignition sequence, driving instructions
Emergency Procedures:
What to do in case of a breakdown, tire changing, jump starting, towing information
Maintenance Routine:
Fluid checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure, wiper blade replacement
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Consumer Assistance:
Contact information for Chrysler customer service, warranty information, dealer locator
Depth:
Owner-level, focusing on safe operation, basic checks, and routine maintenance. Does not include advanced diagnostic procedures or full repair instructions.
Digital Format:
N/A (Original is printed)
Quality:
OEM standard, clear text and legible diagrams
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound (typical for owner's manuals)
Paper:
Standard quality paper stock
Engine Code:
GEMA (for 2.4L Non-VVT)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2429 cc)
Valve Configuration:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) 16-Valve
Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm (estimated for the 2.4L)
Torque:
165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (estimated for the 2.4L)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Control Module:
Chrysler's proprietary PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (40TE/41TE family)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag or Chrysler equivalent)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Length:
169.1 inches (sedan), 164.0 inches (convertible)
Height:
63.0 inches (sedan), 62.7 inches (convertible)
Convertible Trunk Volume:
Approx. 5.0 cubic feet (with top up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3150-3300 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Five-star rating for driver and front passenger (for sedan, convertible may differ slightly)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good rating (for sedan, convertible may differ slightly)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-curtain airbags (available on some trims), front-seat mounted side airbags (available on some trims)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Convertible Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and body structure, potentially pop-up rollover protection (check specific vehicle)
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system
Optional Features:
Sirius Satellite Radio, Uconnect (early version of Bluetooth and voice control)
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Auxiliary Input:
Available on some models for connecting external audio devices
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Tire Rotation:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 12,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Platinum tip plugs: Inspect every 60,000 miles, replace as needed or every 100,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified, synthetic recommended for best performance)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5-Year/100,000 Mile Formula (Blue)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters)
Common Problems:
Early models experienced some transmission control module (TCM) issues, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), and potential oil leaks from the oil filter housing. Convertible top motor or hydraulic issues can occur on higher mileage convertibles.
Manufacturer:
Chrysler (a brand of Stellantis, formerly FCA, formerly DaimlerChrysler)
First Generation:
PH (2001-2010)
Convertible Introduction:
2004
Manufacturing Plant:
Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico
Production Years:
2001-2010 (sedan), 2004-2006 (convertible)
North American Car Of The Year:
Nominated for North American Car of the Year in 2001
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
Motor Trend recognized it as a potential candidate, though it did not win the Import Car of the Year award.
Kl Consumer Satisfaction:
Consumer satisfaction ratings varied by year and specific components, with some criticism regarding interior materials and long-term reliability in certain areas.
