Engine Mechanical:
Engine construction, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust manifolds, timing components.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics, sensors, actuators, emissions control systems (OBD-II).
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable for specific trims), clutch system, shift linkage, gear oil specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE, 45RFE), hydraulic control systems, torque converter, electronic controls, shift solenoids, transmission fluid type and capacity.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), parking brake, rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut, lower control arm), rear suspension (solid axle, leaf springs or coil springs depending on model/trim), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack or gearbox, power steering pump, fluid type, steering column, wheel alignment.
Electrical Body:
Wiring diagrams, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power door locks, power sliding doors, power liftgate, horn, wipers, washers, mirrors, power seats, interior controls, fuses, relays.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant type (R-134a), charge capacity, troubleshooting.
Body Interior:
Interior trim removal and installation, dashboard, door panels, seating, cargo area, headliner, body panels, bumpers, glass, seals.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, door replacement, fender replacement, hood, tailgate, bumpers, mirrors, trim pieces, rust prevention, chassis and frame.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System), seat belts, pretensioners, diagnostic procedures for airbag faults.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation.
Engine Repair:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service, water pump replacement, oil pan gasket replacement.
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, manual transmission fluid change, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul procedures.
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, brake bleeding, ABS component replacement and testing.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack replacement, wheel alignment adjustments.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical circuits using wiring diagrams, testing sensors and actuators, diagnosing computer control modules, fuse and relay testing.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant evacuation and recharge, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak detection, blower motor replacement.
Body Work:
Body panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, glass replacement, seal replacement, minor dent repair procedures.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Diagnostic Codes:
P-codes, B-codes, C-codes, U-codes, and their associated descriptions and diagnostic steps.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic blend oil. Conventional oil may require 5,000 miles (8,000 km) intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed, typically around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Check manual for exact type and interval.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid and filter every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on driving conditions. ATF+4 is a 'fill for life' fluid if maintained correctly, but fluid change is recommended.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified for SN or newer). Check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service category.
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity I4:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, typically a pink color. Mopar 5-Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Specification MS-9602) or Pentastar Power Steering Fluid.
Transmission Slipping:
Certain automatic transmission variants (like the 41TE/42LE) could experience issues with solenoid pack failure, torque converter shudder, or internal seal leaks, especially with higher mileage. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Engine Oil Sludge:
If oil changes are neglected, sludge can build up, particularly in the 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines, leading to lubrication issues. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is vital.
Power Sliding Doors:
The electric motors and mechanisms for power sliding doors and liftgates can wear out, leading to slow operation or failure. Lubrication and adjustment are key.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common wear items due to the vehicle's weight and typical use. Symptoms include clunking noises and vague steering.
HVAC Blend Doors:
Blend door actuators can fail, leading to improper air temperature control or no airflow from certain vents.