Segment:
Minivan segment leader, family vehicle
Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture
Usp:
Versatile interior, front-wheel drive, practical family transport
Cost Saving:
Enables DIY repairs, saving on labor costs
Empowerment:
Provides knowledge for informed repair decisions and avoiding overcharging
Utility:
Suitable for novice owners to experienced professionals
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (42LE) repair, diagnostics, fluid service
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and operation
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system diagnosis and repair
Electrical:
Wiring schematics, lighting, power distribution, instrument cluster, body control modules, comfort features
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior components, doors, glass, seats, climate control system
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, diagnosis, and repair
Driver Information:
Instrument panel, gauges, warning lights, driver information center
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) components, diagnosis, and precautions
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problems and solutions
Diagnostics:
Component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (if applicable to OBD-I systems), electrical testing
Part Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing various parts and components
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component repair)
Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and average car owners
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, often color-coded wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Part Layouts:
Exploded views and illustrations showing part locations and assemblies
Part Numbers:
Inclusion of OEM part numbers for reference and ordering
Engine Code:
440 (3.3L V6 OHV)
Displacement:
3.3 Liters (203 cubic inches)
Configuration:
V6, Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 Valves
Bore X Stroke:
3.58 in x 3.38 in (91 mm x 86 mm)
Horsepower:
156 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque:
189 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not Rated (as per typical 1997 standards)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not Rated (as per typical 1997 standards)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Front seat pretensioners, all-row lap and shoulder belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, speaker configurations vary by trim
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ACC)
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors (availability varies by trim)
Early Connectivity:
Limited by 1997 standards; no integrated Bluetooth or advanced telematics
Oil Change Interval:
3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for specifics)
Engine Tune Up:
As needed, based on performance, spark plug replacement typically every 30,000-60,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (check manual)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity and capacity)
Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (formerly ATF+3, manual will specify correct type for 1997)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), ethylene glycol based
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension bushings, alternator, exhaust system components
Engine Specific:
Potential for head gasket leaks, oil leaks, though generally reliable
Transmission Specific:
42LE can be sensitive to fluid level and condition, potential for solenoid issues
Brand Focus:
Chrysler Corporation's Dodge division, known for practical and family-oriented vehicles
Predecessor:
Dodge Caravan
Generation Introduction:
Second Generation (NS) introduced for the 1996 model year, featuring a significant redesign
Platform:
Chrysler NS Platform
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
