🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

LeBaron

Year:

1988

Platform:

J-body

Generation:

Third Generation (1988-1994)

Vin Prefix:

1C4

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1988 Chrysler LeBaron represented Chrysler's entry into the personal luxury coupe and convertible market with a focus on style and affordability, competing with models from Ford and General Motors.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Pontiac Firebird in the sporty coupe segment, and potentially personal luxury coupes like the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme or Buick Regal in higher trims.

Key Features:

Available in coupe, convertible, and sedan body styles; front-wheel drive platform; distinct styling with pop-up headlights (coupe/convertible); a range of powertrain options.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides exact information used by dealership technicians, ensuring accurate and efficient repairs. Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z, specific to the 1988 Chrysler LeBaron.

Page Count:

Not explicitly stated, but described as comprehensive and containing everything needed.

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF), printable, zoomable images.

Format Advantages:

Easy to use PDF, allows printing of specific pages, zoomable images, searchable text. Eliminates need for multiple physical books.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication.

Electrical Coverage:

Extensive electrical system coverage including wiring schematics for all major systems, lighting, ignition, charging, accessories, and control modules.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions for maintenance, servicing, diagnosis, and repair. Includes troubleshooting guides and complete repair procedures.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees for various symptoms and system failures, helping technicians pinpoint problems.

Technical Depth:

Factory high-detail, vehicle-specific, used by dealership technicians. Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete vehicle repair.

Engine Rebuild Depth:

Covers engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures, including specifications for clearances, torques, and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

File Quality:

High-quality scans/digital creation ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Print Quality:

Printable pages, with option to enlarge images for detailed viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

Digital (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Compatibility:

Windows Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac. Requires Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L (153 cu in) Turbocharged Inline-4 (with balance shafts for smoothness)

Engine Code 2.5L Turbo:

T3 (for Turbocharged models)

Engine Options:

2.2L (135 cu in) Turbocharged Inline-4, 3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi V6

Performance 2.5L Turbo:

Approximately 104 hp and 140 lb-ft torque (figures may vary by specific tune and year).

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributor.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transaxle (TorqueFlite A604 or equivalent)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive with transverse engine mounting.

Automatic Transmission Type:

Hydraulic automatic with electronic control for some functions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 100.3 inches

Length:

Approximately 178.6 inches (coupe/convertible)

Width:

Approximately 69.4 inches

Height:

Approximately 51.9 inches (coupe/convertible)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,800 - 3,200 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)

Seating Capacity:

Typically 4-5 passengers (coupe/convertible).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1988 are not readily available in summary, but the era saw increasing focus on passive safety features.

Active Features:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (or optional Rear Disc Brakes on higher trims), Power Assisted Brakes, Power Steering.

Passive Features:

Seat Belts (manual lap and shoulder belts), Energy-absorbing steering column. Optional: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags were becoming available across the industry in this period, though not standard on all models.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player was common. Optional premium sound systems and graphic equalizers were available.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control was a common option. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was also becoming available on higher-trim models.

Anti Lock Brakes Availability:

Optional on many models, providing enhanced braking control during emergency stops.

Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Basic analog systems.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure. Warning lights for various systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations for the 2.5L turbo.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual, typically around 30,000 miles for standard plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For the 2.5L Turbo engine, timing belt replacement is critical and typically recommended around 60,000-80,000 miles. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent) with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Chrysler ATF+2 (or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent, e.g.,Dexron II/III compatible fluid if specified).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific viscosity).

Known Issues:

Turbocharger issues (oil leaks, worn bearings), electronic control module (ECM) failures, interior wear and tear (especially on convertible tops and seats), occasional electrical gremlins, and aging fuel system components.

Turbo Maintenance:

Regular turbo oil feed and return line inspection is crucial for longevity. Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler, under Lee Iacocca's leadership, was revitalizing its lineup in the 1980s with successful models like the K-cars and minivans, aiming to offer stylish and efficient vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The third generation J-body LeBaron represented a significant redesign from the previous K-car based models, adopting a more aerodynamic and European-influenced styling. It was part of Chrysler's strategy to offer sporty, upscale personal vehicles.

Production Years Generation:

1988-1994

Production Location:

Likely assembled in the United States.