Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking in-depth technical understanding.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu.
Vehicle Attributes:
Known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively reliable powertrain options for its time.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides direct access to factory-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for accurate and efficient maintenance.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Comprehensive DTC coverage for all systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Maintenance Schedules:
Scheduled maintenance for various mileage and time intervals.
Technical Specifications:
Extensive technical data including torque values, clearances, and specifications.
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission overhaul, service, and diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic system.
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, fuses, relays.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, body sealing.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seatbelts.
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt inspections/replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling major and minor components.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures.
Transmission Repair:
Overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor replacement, brake fluid bleeding, ABS component servicing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for electrical circuits.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement, leak detection, system flushing.
Suspension Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance and fluid changes to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.
Type:
F5M33 5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
F4A42 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Automatic Control:
Electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAMOND ATF SP-III (Refer to manual for exact part number and capacity)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact part number and capacity)
NHTSA Front Crash:
4 stars (Driver), 4 stars (Passenger) - Model Year Dependent (Refer to NHTSA records).
NHTSA Side Crash:
5 stars (Front), 4 stars (Rear) - Model Year Dependent (Refer to NHTSA records).
IIHS Front Crash:
Good - Model Year Dependent (Refer to IIHS records).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific intervals and oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Timing Belt:
This engine uses a timing *chain*, not a belt, requiring no scheduled replacement but should be inspected.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity and viscosity).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual).
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts leading to vibration.
Oxygen Sensors:
Failure of O2 sensors causing poor fuel economy and check engine lights.
Cv Boots:
Tearing of front CV joint boots leading to loss of grease and premature joint wear.
Automatic Transmission Slipping:
Occasional reports of automatic transmission slipping or delayed shifting, often related to fluid condition or solenoid issues.
