Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedan
Target Audience:
Value-conscious consumers seeking a practical and economical car.
Key Competitors:
Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra.
Manual Selling Points:
Vehicle-specific, dealer-level accuracy, comprehensive coverage (A-Z), step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications, printable, searchable PDF, compatible with major operating systems.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.5L 4-cylinder, 3.0L V6), Fuel System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lube System, Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Automatic Transmission (3-speed), Manual Transmission (4-speed), Clutch, Transfer Case (N/A), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam), Steering (Rack and Pinion, Power Steering), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum, Parking Brake), Wheels and Tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body and Frame, Exterior and Interior Trim, Engine Hood/Doors, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS - potentially limited for this era), Seat Belts, Cruise Control, Wiper and Washer Systems, Door Locks, Horn, Lighting, Multiplex/CAN Communication (N/A or very basic for this era), Audio/Visual Systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic fault codes (OBD-I likely), component testing, wiring schematic interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical, electrical, and body components. Includes disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component replacement, and in-depth repair procedures identical to those used by dealership technicians. Includes detailed specifications and schematics.
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac OS Compatible.
Printability:
Fully printable. Users can print specific pages or sections. Images can be blown up and printed enlarged.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - No physical binding. Offers the benefit of not having greasy or torn pages.
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Options:
2.5L (153 cu in) Naturally Aspirated Inline-4; 3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi 6G72 SOHC V6.
Horsepower 2 5L:
Approx. 104 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 2 5L:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Horsepower 3 0L V6:
Approx. 141 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 3 0L V6:
Approx. 164 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Spark Plug Type 2 5L:
Refer to manual for specific gap and type (e.g., Champion RC12LYC or equivalent).
Oil Capacity 2 5L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter. Refer to manual for exact capacity.
Oil Capacity 3 0L V6:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter. Refer to manual for exact capacity.
Transmission Options:
Chrysler A404 3-speed automatic transmission (standard on most models). Optional 4-speed manual transmission.
Manual Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent DEXRON II/III compatible fluid).
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type and viscosity (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.3 inches (2548 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.3 inches (4503 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.4 inches (1687 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1179-1270 kg), varies by engine and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
Refer to vehicle's compliance plate for specific GVWR.
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA ratings for 1989 models are limited and may not be directly comparable to modern standards. Refer to historical databases if available.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Steering System:
Rack and pinion steering, with optional power assist.
Restraint System:
Seat belts (manual lap and shoulder belts). Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags were not standard or commonly available on this model year.
Body Structure:
Integrated body structure with crumple zones designed for the era.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM stereo radio, with optional cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models for enhanced braking control.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports were available on this model.
Dashboard Features:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, brake system, etc.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, but consult manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs and other ignition components typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on type. Refer to manual.
Timing Belt Interval 2 5L:
The 2.5L engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval typically around 60,000-90,000 miles. Refer to manual for precise interval and procedure to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as recommended by the manual, especially under severe driving conditions.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green). Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mopar antifreeze specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid. Always use fresh fluid when bleeding brakes.
Common Problems List:
Potential issues include head gasket failures (especially on 2.5L engine under high mileage), aging electrical components and connectors, transmission control issues, suspension wear (ball joints, bushings), and rust on body panels.
Heater Core Failure:
Common to many vehicles of this era, the heater core can leak or clog over time.
Dodge History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to performance cars and economical compacts.
Spirit Lineage:
The Dodge Spirit was a compact sedan produced from 1989 to 1994. It was based on Chrysler's P-body platform, which also underpinned the Plymouth Acclaim and Chrysler LeBaron. It succeeded the Dodge Aries and represented a more modern, aerodynamic design.
Production Years:
1989-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
