🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Cirrus / Stratus

Year:

1997

Platform Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan segment, competing with models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus.

Strengths:

Stylish European-inspired design (by Tom Gale), comfortable ride, often available at a competitive price point.

Weaknesses:

Perceived build quality and reliability issues compared to Japanese rivals, some powertrain choices less refined.

Design:

Cab-forward design principles, aerodynamic styling.

Interior:

Spacious cabin for its class, comfortable seating.

Benefit 1:

Avoidance of household chores.

Benefit 2:

Opportunity to acquire tools.

Benefit 3:

Potential for cost savings through self-repair.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete service and repair for 1997 Chrysler Cirrus and Stratus models.

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Fuel System, Cooling System, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Restraints, Instrument Panel, Audio Systems, Chassis.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 1500 pages based on typical factory service manuals of this era.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all applicable engines, including the 2.0L DOHC and 2.5L SOHC V6.

Transmission:

Service and repair for automatic transaxles (e.g., A604/41TE).

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, ABS if equipped).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component inspection, replacement, and alignment procedures (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering linkage).

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, and accessories.

HVAC:

Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and climate control operation.

Body:

Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, bumpers, and frame straightening procedures.

Restraint System:

Airbag system diagnosis, repair, and related safety components.

Emission Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including O2 sensors, catalytic converters, EVAP systems.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and basic inspections.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and diagnostic data for all components and systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system troubleshooting with detailed wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac.

Reader Requirement:

Requires Adobe PDF Reader.

Quality:

High-quality scans suitable for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Digital download (no physical binding).

Paper:

N/A (Digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Type:

2.0L (1995cc) DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (Chrysler ECE)

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Type:

2.5L (2497cc) SOHC 24-valve V6 (Chrysler EAF/EAE)

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 168 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based system depending on specific engine variant.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (A604 / 41TE)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (less common, often for base engines).

Auto Stick:

Some models may feature AutoStick manual shifting capability.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent, check manual for specific recommendation, potentially ATF+3 for 1997 models).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.4 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 56.3 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (depending on engine and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically around 4200 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely 4-star rating (refer to specific NHTSA reports for confirmation).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Likely 4-star rating (refer to specific NHTSA reports for confirmation).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some trims.

Traction Control:

Traction control not commonly available for this model year.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front three-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player, optional premium audio systems.

Navigation:

No factory navigation systems available for this model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Parking Assist:

No factory parking assist systems.

Bluetooth:

No Bluetooth or integrated mobile connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact interval.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Check every 15,000 miles, change typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2-3 years/30,000-50,000 miles. Refer to manual for precise interval and coolant type.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Engine Mounts:

Engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to vibration and noise.

Head Gaskets:

Certain early V6 engines (especially the 3.3/3.8L, though less common in Cirrus/Stratus) were known for head gasket issues; the 2.5L V6 here generally fares better but can still have issues.

Automatic Transmission:

The 41TE transmission can develop internal issues, especially with heat and fluid maintenance. Leaks at the cooler lines are also common.

Suspension Components:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts are wear items that may require replacement due to road conditions.

HVAC Blend Door Actuator:

HVAC blend door actuators can fail, resulting in incorrect air temperature or direction.

Power Window Motors:

Power window motors and regulators can fail.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Sedan History:

Chrysler has a long history of producing sedans, from the Imperial and New Yorker to more modern offerings.

Cirrus Stratus Launch:

The Cirrus and Stratus were introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup, designed under Tom Gale's leadership.

Cirrus Vs Stratus:

The Cirrus was generally positioned as a slightly more upscale or sportier variant compared to the Stratus, though they shared the same platform and many components.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

Production Period:

JA platform production ran from 1995 to 2000.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The original Cirrus/Stratus design was acclaimed, and the platform was recognized by automotive journalists, though specific '10Best' awards for the 1997 model are less prominent compared to later iterations or competitors.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports rankings for this era often placed Chrysler products below top Japanese and German competitors in reliability metrics. Manual is essential for addressing potential issues.