Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional service technicians
Competitors 1999:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Explorer (smaller variants), Chevrolet Tracker
Vehicle Philosophy:
Rugged, affordable, off-road capable compact SUV
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealer-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for maintaining and repairing this specific model
Engine:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT) - Repair, Diagnosis, Maintenance
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD), All Wheel Drive (AWD) System, Drivelines, Differentials
Suspension:
Front Suspension (Independent), Rear Suspension (Multi-link Solid Axle), Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc/Drum Brakes (depending on configuration), Parking Brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electrical:
12V Battery System, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, Body Electrical Components, Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Body:
Body Exterior and Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Body Repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis
Repair:
Engine Component Repair/Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Overhaul:
Detailed disassembly and reassembly procedures for major components
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Gaps, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not Rated (NHTSA data for this specific year/model may be limited)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not Rated (NHTSA data for this specific year/model may be limited)
ABS:
Available (typically on higher trims or 4WD models)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval Synth Blend:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or 12-24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, SAE J1034 Type 2 (typically green coolant)
Common Complaint 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal
Common Complaint 2:
Minor electrical gremlins, especially with window regulators and door locks
Common Complaint 3:
Suspension wear (bushings, ball joints) due to age and typical usage
Common Complaint 4:
Rust issues on body panels, particularly wheel arches and rocker panels in areas with road salt
Common Complaint 5:
Timing belt replacement is critical (typically every 60,000 miles for this engine)
