🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

LHS

Year:

1996

Generation Name:

Second Generation (LH platform)

Platform Code:

LH

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Chrysler LHS was positioned as a full-size luxury sedan, targeting buyers seeking comfort, space, and a premium experience at a more accessible price point than established luxury marques. It competed with vehicles like the Buick Park Avenue, Ford Crown Victoria, and Chevrolet Caprice, as well as entry-level European luxury sedans.

Competitors Comparison:

The LHS competed with American luxury sedans like the Buick Park Avenue, Lincoln Continental, and Cadillac DeVille, as well as well-equipped models from domestic brands like the Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight/Ninety-Eight. Its front-wheel-drive platform and emphasis on interior space were key differentiators.

Competitive Analysis Summary:

The LHS offered a compelling value proposition with its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Its front-wheel-drive platform and V6 engine were typical for its class. The LH platform was an innovative design for Chrysler at the time, featuring cab-forward architecture for enhanced interior space. This manual provides the critical technical information needed to maintain and repair this unique vehicle, allowing owners to preserve its original luxury and performance.

Key Features Summary:

Cab-forward design, spacious interior, comfortable ride, standard V6 engine, front-wheel drive, distinctive styling, emphasis on luxury appointments. This manual mirrors the factory's commitment to detail, offering the exact information technicians used to service these vehicles.

Manual Key Feature:

Vehicle-specific information, not generic. Provides exact factory procedures and specifications as used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas Summary:

Comprehensive A-Z repairs, all models, all systems including maintenance, engine, control system, mechanical, fuel, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lube, ignition, starting, charging, automatic 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.

Page Count Estimate:

Likely exceeds 1000 pages given the comprehensive nature, typical for factory service manuals of this era.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Size Estimate:

Varies based on PDF optimization, but likely several hundred megabytes to over a gigabyte due to high-resolution images and detailed schematics.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered List:

Engine Control System Coverage:

Detailed coverage of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), sensor inputs (e.g., crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, manifold absolute pressure, coolant temperature), actuator outputs (e.g., fuel injectors, ignition coils), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and emissions control strategies. Includes wiring diagrams for the entire engine management system.

Supplemental Restraint System Coverage:

Detailed diagnostics for airbag system faults, including the airbag control module (ACM), impact sensors, clock spring, and airbag modules. Procedures for safe handling and replacement of SRS components.

Brake Control Coverage:

Specific diagnostics and repair procedures for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) hydraulic unit, wheel speed sensors, and ABS warning light troubleshooting.

Procedures Included List:

Wiring Schematics Coverage:

Comprehensive, full-color wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, audio, HVAC, SRS, and instrument cluster. Schematics are detailed with wire colors, connector pinouts, and component locations.

Troubleshooting Procedures Type:

Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic flowcharts, electrical resistance tests, voltage tests, and component actuation tests.

Technical Depth:

Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and complete component overhauls and rebuilds. Includes in-depth troubleshooting trees, diagnostic procedures, and specific repair instructions for every system.

Diagnostic Procedures Depth:

Includes step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying the root cause of problems, often starting with symptom-based troubleshooting followed by specific component testing and electrical checks.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF, compatible with Adobe Reader. Searchable text allows for quick information retrieval. Pages are printable for use in a workshop environment. Images can be enlarged for better detail.

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible. Requires Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (both free).

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - No physical binding. Allows for selective printing.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format). User can choose preferred paper type for printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EGE

Engine Displacement:

3.5 Liters (215 cu. in.)

Engine Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine Horsepower:

214 hp @ 5800 rpm

Engine Torque:

221 lb-ft @ 3100 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

0 60 Mph Acceleration Estimate:

Approximately 8.5-9.5 seconds, depending on conditions and specific configuration.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Model:

42LE

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, with torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency. Manual shifting modes were not typically available on this specific model.

Optional Transmission Availability:

None. The 1996 LHS was exclusively equipped with the 42LE automatic transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2870 mm)

Length:

202.0 inches (5131 mm)

Width:

74.1 inches (1882 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3600 - 3750 lbs (1633 - 1701 kg), varies by option package.

Interior Volume Estimate:

Large for its class, reflecting the cab-forward design, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not available for this year, but the LH platform was designed with improved crashworthiness due to its cab-forward layout.

Active Safety Features:

Passive Safety Features:

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Typically featured an AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player and premium audio systems were available. Climate controls were often a mix of manual and electronic inputs.

Instrument Panel Features:

Features analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Includes warning lights for various systems (e.g., check engine, ABS, airbag, brake). Electronic information displays were minimal on base models.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS was standard, with traction control being an optional feature. Cruise control was also commonly equipped.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily featured standard radio antenna and speaker wiring. No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to the manual for specific recommendations based on severe vs. normal usage.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km). The manual will specify the exact procedure and fluid type.

Coolant Change Interval:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. The manual will detail the specific coolant type (e.g., HOAT) and capacity.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30. Verify exact specification in the manual.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent) is generally recommended for the 42LE, although ATF+3 might have been specified for 1996. The manual will be definitive.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 04549610) or equivalent Dexron II/III automatic transmission fluid. Manual verification is crucial.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant - 5 Year Formula or equivalent).

Known Issues Common:

Engine Timing Belt Chain:

The 3.5L EGE engine utilizes a timing chain, which is generally more durable than a belt and typically does not require scheduled replacement unless specific issues arise. The manual will detail inspection procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Summary:

Chrysler, as part of the Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a history of producing a range of vehicles from economy cars to luxury sedans and performance vehicles. The LH platform represented a significant shift in design and engineering for the brand.

Model Evolution Summary:

The Chrysler LHS was introduced in 1994 as a flagship model based on the all-new LH platform. It shared its underpinnings with the Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision but was positioned higher in terms of luxury and features. The 1996 model year saw minor refinements and updates typical for mid-cycle production.

Platform Significance:

The LH platform was a groundbreaking design for Chrysler, emphasizing a longer wheelbase within a shorter overall length, improved aerodynamics, and a driver-oriented cockpit. This was a departure from traditional American car design of the era.

Production Location:

Bramalea, Ontario, Canada