Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners seeking detailed repair information
Competitors 2005:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, fuel-efficient compact car with sporty styling for its segment
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive technical data necessary for accurate diagnosis and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services
Engine:
Complete diagnostics, repair, overhaul of all engine components and systems
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control, sensors, actuators, PCM diagnostics
Transmission:
Service, repair, and overhaul of automatic (4-speed) and manual transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, differential, hub assemblies
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, struts
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, rack and pinion
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system, blower motor, refrigerant, climate controls
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, glass replacement
Chassis:
Frame, unibody construction, mounting points
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seat belts
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor vehicle systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Replacement:
Component replacement procedures (e.g., starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump, brake calipers)
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits
Schematics:
Vacuum diagrams, hydraulic schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhaul and advanced diagnostics)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
Acceptable
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Acceptable
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Available (standard on SRT-4)
Traction Control:
Available (TRAC, standard on SRT-4)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard), optional side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (automatic transmission)
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on coolant type, HOAT recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or later)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, blue
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler)
Common Complaints:
Headlight condensation, rear brake caliper seizing, timing belt tensioner noise (on older models/before 2003), AC system leaks, wheel bearing failure
Srt4 Specific Issues:
Clutch wear, turbocharger oil feed line issues, exhaust manifold cracks