Segment:
Compact car, known for its affordability, sporty handling (especially R/T models), and distinctive styling.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Cavalier.
Strengths:
Good value proposition, agile handling, attractive exterior design, available performance variants.
Weaknesses:
Perceived build quality concerns in some areas, interior materials could be better, reliance on Chrysler/Dodge corporate platforms.
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (16-valve) and 2.0L DOHC (16-valve) engines, including assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, and repair.
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (3-speed) transmissions, including removal, installation, internal repairs, and fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including half-shafts, differential, and related components.
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut and rear independent suspension (multi-link), including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum or disc brakes (depending on trim), including hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotors, pads, calipers, and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power rack and pinion steering system, including pump, lines, rack assembly, and alignment.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair, including battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and fuses/relays.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems, including refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and controls.
Body:
Exterior and interior body panels, doors, windows, latches, hinges, bumpers, and trim component removal/installation.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides and fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying the root cause of problems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and specifications.
Engine Code 1:
ECC (2.0L SOHC 16V I4)
Displacement 1:
1996 cc (121.8 cu in)
Horsepower 1:
132 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code 2:
ECL (2.0L DOHC 16V I4 - High Output)
Displacement 2:
1996 cc (121.8 cu in)
Horsepower 2:
150 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard) / 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (R/T - varies slightly by source)
Torque 2:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (standard) / 135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (R/T)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 89+ for optimal performance)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
13.0 gallons (49.2 Liters)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
ABS:
Available (Standard on R/T, optional on others)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front: three-point, height-adjustable; Rear: three-point, lap belt for center occupant
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (standard).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), or every 24-48 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant Spec:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems 1:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump).
Common Problems 2:
Power steering pump whine or failure.
Common Problems 3:
Electrical gremlins, particularly with window regulators, door locks, and dashboard components.
Common Problems 4:
Catalytic converter failure (especially on high-mileage vehicles).
Common Problems 5:
Automatic transmission issues (harsh shifting, slipping).
Brand Identity:
Dodge, historically a performance-oriented division of Chrysler, aimed to offer engaging and affordable vehicles.
Generation:
Second Generation (PL) introduced for the 2000 model year, featuring a redesigned exterior and interior.
Design Philosophy:
The second generation aimed to rectify criticisms of the first generation, with improved refinement, safety, and styling.
Assembly Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
1995-2005 (Global production, including Chrysler and Mitsubishi variants)
