Market Segment:
Compact Economy Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Affordable, fuel-efficient, and sporty design with a focus on value for money.
Manual Advantage:
Empowers owners and mechanics with comprehensive knowledge for cost-effective maintenance and repair.
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) and 2.0L DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) engines (Chrysler Tritec engine family).
Transmission:
Manual Transaxle System (e.g., A578) and Automatic Transaxle System (e.g., 31TH).
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Brake System, Brake Booster, Brake Master Cylinder, ABS (if equipped).
Suspension:
Front Suspension System (e.g., MacPherson strut), Rear Suspension System (e.g., Independent with trailing arms), Wheel Alignment.
Steering:
Steering System, Power Steering System, Steering Column.
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Panel, Wiring Diagrams, Wire Harness Repair.
Body And Frame:
Body Repair, Exterior and Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Back Door, Sun Roof System.
HVAC:
Heater & Air Conditioner System, Air Conditioning Blower Assy, Heater Radiator Assy, Air Conditioner Refrigerant.
Safety Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Air Bag Sensor Front/Rear, Seat Belt Warning System, Seat Belt.
Fuel System:
Fuel System, Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injector, Throttle Body Assy.
Emission Control:
Emission Control Systems, Charcoal Canister.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and brake system repairs.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, sensor testing, circuit diagnosis.
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustments, parking brake adjustments, clutch adjustments.
Depth:
Expert level, covering complete disassembly, reassembly, and calibration of all vehicle components.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
SOHC (16 valves) or DOHC (16 valves)
Engine 1 Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 1 Horsepower DOHc:
150 hp @ 6000 rpm (ES/R/RT models)
Engine 1 Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (ES/R/RT models)
Engine Compression Ratio:
9.6:1 (SOHC), 10.0:1 (DOHC)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum/Iridium plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (preferred), 5W-20 (for fuel economy in specific conditions), 10W-30 (in warmer climates).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20.
Engine Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Ignition coil failure (especially on DOHC engines).
Common Issue 2:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Issue 4:
Power window motor failure.
Common Issue 5:
Radiator leaks, especially the plastic end tanks.
Brand Origin:
American, founded by Walter Chrysler.
First Generation Introduction:
1995
Second Generation Introduction:
2000
Second Generation Key Changes:
All-new exterior and interior design, improved chassis, updated powertrains, enhanced safety features.
Production Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2005 (North America)
