🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

JA Cirrus / Stratus

Year:

1997

Platform:

JA

Drive Type:

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) & Left-Hand Drive (LHD)

Variant:

Cirrus, Stratus

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Chrysler JA platform represented a significant step for Chrysler in the mid-size sedan market, aiming to compete with established Japanese and American rivals with a focus on comfort, styling, and value.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Malibu, often offering competitive pricing and features.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available V6 engines, distinctive styling for its era, and a focus on driver and passenger amenities.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Global (with RHD and LHD variations)

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive electronic service manuals)

Manual Type:

Electronic Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Interactive Electronic (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Axles), Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC, Body & Interior, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Body Electronics, Safety Systems

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Removal & Installation, Disassembly & Reassembly, Repair Procedures, Component Testing, Electrical Circuit Tracing, Body Panel Repair, Painting Procedures, Fluid Replacements, Inspection Procedures, System Adjustments

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and component-level repairs, including detailed diagrams and specifications.

Diagrams Included:

Extensive: Detailed wiring diagrams, exploded assembly views, system schematics, torque specifications for fasteners, component location diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Covers On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic strategies for all major systems, and troubleshooting symptom-based issues.

Repair Procedures Engine:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston/rod replacement, crankshaft service, valve train service, and accessory drive belt replacement.

Repair Procedures Transmission:

Detailed procedures for automatic transmission service, including fluid and filter changes, removal and installation, and common internal component repairs or replacements.

Repair Procedures Brakes:

Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, bleeding the brake system, and ABS component testing.

Repair Procedures Suspension Steering:

Replacement of struts/shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack service, wheel alignment specifications.

Repair Procedures Electrical:

Component testing (e.g., starters, alternators, fuel pumps, sensors), power window/lock system repair, lighting system troubleshooting, fuse and relay identification and testing.

Body And Trim:

Procedures for interior trim panel removal, exterior body panel replacement (fenders, doors, hoods), bumper repair, and detailing specifications.

Painting And Finishing:

Includes information on surface preparation, paint types, application techniques, and color code identification, relevant for collision repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF or proprietary interactive format, optimized for digital access and printing.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear printing of text, diagrams, and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format) - Printable sections.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format) - User choice for printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L DOHC Inline-4 (Engine Code: 420A)

Secondary Engine:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (Engine Code: EDZ)

Optional Engine:

2.5L SOHC V6 (Engine Code: EGJ/2.5L High Output SOHC V6, Engine Code: ESX - Mitsubishi 6G73)

Performance:

Approx. 132 hp for 2.0L, 150 hp for 2.4L, 150 hp for 2.5L V6 (V6 High Output ~160 hp). Torque figures vary by engine.

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management:

Engine Control Module (ECM) with OBD-II diagnostics

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, EGR System, PCV System

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (Limited availability on certain trims)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A604, 41TE)

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (or equivalent compatible fluid, consult manual for exact type and specification)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 193.0 inches (4902 mm)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 55.8 inches (1417 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.4 inches (2703 mm)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and trim, typically 3100 - 3400 lbs (1400 - 1540 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

NHTSA ratings varied by year and testing methodology, generally expected to be average for the era.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, Traction Control System (TCS) on select higher trims.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, side impact beams, three-point seat belts for all occupants, adjustable head restraints.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard in 1997, typically used child seat anchor points and tethers.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Driver Assistance:

Limited by modern standards. Cruise control was a common feature. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were available.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket solutions could be installed.

Gauges And Instruments:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil:

Recommended oil change every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific interval based on oil specification.

Service Intervals Filters:

Engine oil filter, air filter, and cabin air filter typically replaced during oil change intervals or as needed based on inspection.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified oil (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature and engine type).

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Chrysler specific 50/50 mixture of antifreeze/coolant and distilled water. Consult manual for Mopar P/N or equivalent.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Known Issues:

Transmission issues (e.g., slipping, rough shifting), head gasket failures on some engines, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, AC system leaks, power window regulator issues, and potential for dashboard cracking due to UV exposure.

Timing Belt Interval:

Timing belt replacement recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 145,000 km) for interference engines. Consult manual for exact interval and engine type.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler has a long history in the American automotive market, known for introducing innovations and a range of vehicles from economical compacts to luxury sedans and minivans.

Model Evolution:

The JA platform was introduced for the 1995 model year as the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. The Dodge Stratus joined the lineup later. The JA platform was a replacement for the aging A-body platform.

Production:

Produced in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA. The JA platform ran from 1995 to 2000.

Chrysler Ja Context:

Part of Chrysler's 'platform strategy' aimed at sharing underpinnings across different brands (Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth) to reduce development costs and improve efficiency.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Cirrus/Stratus generally received moderate reviews for its class. Specific awards are less common for this model compared to some more iconic vehicles.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction and reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports often reflected average performance for American sedans of the era.