Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine performance, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Starting system, Charging system, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Axles, Driveshafts, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering system, Brake system (Front and Rear, ABS), Wheels and Tires, Body and Frame, Exterior trim, Interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Electrical system (Wiring diagrams, Components), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio system, Restraint systems (Airbags), Security system.
Procedures Included:
Preventative maintenance, Routine inspections, Diagnostic troubleshooting, Component removal and installation, Repair procedures, Overhaul procedures, Electrical circuit testing, Brake bleeding, Suspension alignment, HVAC service, Lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, drive belt replacement, oil pan gasket replacement, water pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, fuel injector cleaning/replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repairs, including torque specifications, tolerances, and detailed component removal/installation sequences. Factory-derived OE information.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes guided troubleshooting flowcharts for various symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I for some systems, OBD-II for primary engine control in 1996), and specific component testing procedures. The manual would detail how to use a diagnostic scan tool or perform manual diagnostic checks.
Body Repair:
Details for body panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, bumper repair, glass replacement, and upholstery removal/installation. Covers structural repair considerations to a reasonable extent for DIYers.
Wiring Diagrams:
Extensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including power distribution, engine control, lighting, comfort controls, and safety systems. This is a critical component for electrical troubleshooting.
HVAC Service:
Procedures for refrigerant handling (R-134a), compressor replacement, condenser service, evaporator service, blower motor replacement, control panel diagnosis and repair, and system leak testing. Includes pressure/temperature charts.
Brake System Service:
Complete guide to disc and drum brake service (if applicable to rear), including caliper and wheel cylinder replacement, brake pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, master cylinder overhaul, brake line inspection and replacement, and ABS component diagnosis.
Suspension Steering Service:
Detailed instructions for replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, struts, shocks, and steering rack components. Includes procedures for power steering pump and fluid replacement. Wheel alignment specifications are also provided.
Engine Rebuild:
Covers complete engine disassembly and reassembly, including cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, camshaft and valvetrain overhaul, and engine sealing (gaskets, seals). Includes critical torque specifications and clearance measurements.
Drivetrain Service:
Procedures for driveshaft and CV joint inspection and replacement, wheel bearing replacement, and transaxle fluid and seal service.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on usage).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended at 90,000 miles or 7 years for the 2.5L V6 engine due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional Motor Oil (API Service SG or higher).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent.
Common Issues:
Timing belt failure (critical to replace), transmission solenoid issues, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), power window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor failures, ABS sensor failures, O2 sensor failures.
