Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Nissan Maxima
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic design for its era, often with a sporty appeal
Powertrain Options:
Known for offering potent V6 engines, providing strong performance for the segment
Interior Comfort:
Spacious cabin, comfortable seating, often well-equipped with features for its class
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emissions control (OBD-I compliance, catalytic converter, EGR), engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (W5MG1, KM222) disassembly, assembly, repair, clutch operation
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (V4A51) disassembly, assembly, repair, torque converter operation, hydraulic control
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs, anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation and diagnosis, brake system bleeding, master cylinder, calipers
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis component torque specifications
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant charging procedures
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (if equipped), seat belt mechanisms
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine and ABS, common fault finding
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling various vehicle sub-assemblies
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and diagnostics
Engine Code:
6G72 (Common V6)
Engine Type:
3.0L SOHC V6 (12-valve), 3.0L DOHC V6 (24-valve)
Horsepower Sohc:
Approx. 143-155 hp (varies by year and market)
Horsepower DOHc:
Approx. 170-180 hp (varies by year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 170-185 lb-ft (varies by engine and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor type
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum plugs may last longer)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 US quarts (with filter)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early V6 models), timing belt tensioner issues (if applicable), intake manifold gasket leaks
Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid failures, manual clutch wear
Electrical:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, power window motor failures, alternator issues
Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints and control arm bushings, power steering pump leaks