Target Audience:
Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Vehicle Focus:
Practicality, spacious interior for its class, available V6 engines for improved performance.
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair procedures not available in owner's manuals, enabling cost-effective DIY maintenance and repairs.
Engine Variants Covered:
2.0L I4 (420A), 2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ), 2.7L V6 (EER), 3.0L V6 (6G72 - Mitsubishi)
Transmission Variants Covered:
41TE (Automatic), 50LE (Automatic - Mitsubishi 4-speed)
Trim Levels Covered:
SE, ES, R/T
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), Fuel system, Ignition system, Emission control systems, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Automatic transmissions (41TE, 50LE)
Chassis:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), Steering system, Suspension system (front and rear), Drivetrain (front-wheel drive)
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power accessories, HVAC controls, Audio system, Body control modules, Wiring diagrams
Body:
Body construction, Exterior panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior trim, Body hardware, Paint and corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, Component testing, System diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake caliper replacement, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component repair, Body panel repair
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Component measurements, Wiring schematics, Fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring schematics.
NHTSA Frontal Driver 2000:
★★★★★ (5 stars)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger 2000:
★★★★★ (5 stars)
IIHS Side Impact 2000:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard on ES and R/T, Optional on SE
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Oil Change Interval:
3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 420A:
100,000 miles (platinum)
Spark Plug Replacement Edz:
100,000 miles (platinum)
Spark Plug Replacement Eer:
100,000 miles (platinum)
Transmission Fluid Change:
30,000-60,000 miles (check condition, severe use may require more frequent changes)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-30, 5W-30, 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, refer to manual)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar orange or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 2.7L V6)
Common Issue 2:
Oil sludge buildup in the 2.7L V6 due to poor oil change practices or design.
Common Issue 3:
Power steering pump leaks or noisy operation.
Common Issue 4:
Transmission solenoid issues or failure (particularly on 41TE models).
Common Issue 5:
Window regulator failures.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)
Generation Start:
1995 (First Generation - JA)
Generation Covered:
Second Generation (1998-2006) - Minor facelift and powertrain updates for 2000-2001.
Platform:
Chrysler JA platform (shared with Chrysler Cirrus, Sebring Sedan, Dodge Breeze, Plymouth Breeze)
Assembly Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Award 1:
J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) ratings varied by year and specific model, generally in the mid-pack for its segment.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Historically rated below average to average by Consumer Reports, with specific powertrain and electrical components being points of concern.
