Market Segment:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors 1998:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, fuel-efficient, driver-focused design with distinctive styling
Platform Origin:
Chrysler's PL platform, co-developed with Mitsubishi
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, engine management (ECU), starting and charging
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, Automatic transmission, clutch, drivetrain components (axles, CV joints)
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control electronics, body control modules
Body Systems:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, symptom analysis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel pump), sensor replacement, module replacement
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Focus:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams for effective troubleshooting
Engine Code Standard:
SOHC 2.0L (1996cc) I4 - Chrysler 1300
Engine Code Optional:
DOHC 2.0L (1996cc) I4 - Chrysler 1320 (ACR/ES model)
Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Horsepower DOHc:
145 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller) based systems
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (A555)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (A604 - Ultradrive)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MS-90300 or equivalent (GL-3/GL-4 gear oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Length Sedan:
174.4 inches (4430 mm)
Width:
66.9 inches (1700 mm)
Height Sedan:
54.3 inches (1380 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Front Headroom:
38.7 inches (983 mm)
Front Legroom:
42.1 inches (1069 mm)
Rear Headroom Sedan:
37.1 inches (942 mm)
Rear Legroom Sedan:
32.8 inches (833 mm)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
13.1 cubic feet (371 liters)
Curb Weight Sedan Manual:
2700 lbs (1225 kg)
Curb Weight Sedan Automatic:
2770 lbs (1256 kg)
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset Impact:
Acceptable
ABS:
Optional (Standard on some higher trims/DOHC models)
Traction Control:
Not available
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's seatbelt pre-tensioner
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent (50/50 mix)
Common Issue Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine and transmission mounts, especially hydraulic mounts
Common Issue Evap System:
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system faults, leading to Check Engine Light illumination (e.g., purge solenoid, vent solenoid)
Common Issue Interior Trim:
Interior trim pieces can be brittle and prone to cracking
Common Issue Ac System:
A/C system leaks, particularly at the compressor shaft seal or condenser
Common Issue Transmission Slushbox:
Automatic transmission (A604) can be prone to torque converter shudder or slipping if not properly maintained.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation
First Generation Start Year:
1995
First Generation End Year:
2000
Facelift Year:
1997 (Minor exterior/interior revisions)
Production Location:
Belo Horizonte, Brazil and Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Model Significance:
Chrysler's first truly global compact car, praised for its handling and value
