Positioning:
The 1997 Chrysler Voyager was a key player in the burgeoning minivan segment, offering practicality and family-friendly features that made it a popular choice for American households.
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles such as the Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, and domestic versions of Japanese minivans like the Toyota Previa and Honda Odyssey.
Features:
Front-wheel drive, spacious interior with flexible seating configurations, available all-wheel drive on some trims, and a range of powertrain options.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagrams, specifications, disassembly, inspection, repair, and assembly procedures for all engine components.
Engine Control System:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions controls, sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and module testing.
Transmission Mechanical:
Coverage for both automatic transmissions, including disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly procedures, torque specifications, and adjustments.
Transmission Control:
Electronic control unit (ECU) operation, solenoids, sensors, and diagnostic procedures for automatic transmission control.
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS components, brake fluid specifications, disc and drum brake overhaul, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, and steering column components, including fluid specifications and service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams for all circuits, component locations, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instruments, and accessories.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant handling, and system diagnostics.
Body And Interior:
Door and window mechanisms, seat adjustments, trim panels, body panel repair, and chassis specifications.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and intermittent faults, using symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic information for engine, transmission, ABS, and other electronic control modules, including OBD-II codes and procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance and adjustments to full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type:
Not applicable for 1997 model year.
Features:
Electronically controlled with overdrive, torque converter clutch (TCC) for improved fuel economy.
Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602) or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and part number).
Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) for fluid change, higher for overhaul.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (1997 model year)
Active Safety:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models, power-assisted brakes.
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, child seat anchor points (LATCH system not standard until later years).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (refer to manual for severe duty conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher recommended). Check manual for exact specification and capacity.
Coolant:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (Mopar HOAT) or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Common Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially on the 41TE/42LE), head gasket leaks on 3.0L Mitsubishi engine, AC system leaks, power window regulator failures, rear suspension sagging, and intermittent electrical gremlins.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets, particularly on the 3.3L and 3.8L engines, can lead to coolant leaks and drivability issues.
Heritage:
Chrysler has a long-standing reputation for innovation in the automotive industry, particularly with the introduction of the minivan concept in the mid-1980s.
Evolution:
The 1997 Voyager is part of the second generation (NS) of Chrysler minivans, which saw significant redesigns and improvements over the original 'T-115' platform. The NS introduced a more aerodynamic profile and enhanced safety features.
Production Years:
Chrysler Voyager and its Dodge Caravan sibling were produced from 1984 to 2003 for the North American market.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily St. Louis Assembly Plant, Missouri, USA.