Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima
Key Differentiators:
Distinctive styling, spacious interior, performance-oriented engine options (for its class), comfortable ride
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, aerodynamic profile
Target Demographic:
Families, commuters, those seeking American styling and comfort
Engine:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.2L V6 (ECL), 3.5L V6 (EGW)
Transmission:
42LE Automatic Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Distribution, ECU Diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Operation and Repair
Driver Information Controls:
Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Switches
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Spark Plug Replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Engine Repair:
Engine Mechanical, Cylinder Head, Piston, Crankshaft, Timing Components
Transmission Service:
Fluid Changes, Seal Replacements, Internal Component Repair (42LE)
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad Replacement, Rotor Machining, Brake Line Service, ABS Component Diagnostics
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock Absorber Replacement, Ball Joint Service, Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Wiring Repair, Component Testing, Fuse and Relay Identification
Body Repair:
Panel Alignment, Dent Repair, Weatherstrip Replacement
HVAC System Repair:
Component Replacement (Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator), Refrigerant Servicing
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major component overhaul)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced OBD-II diagnostics and component-level testing
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH System (rear seat)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
4.5 Quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.2L:
5.0 Quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
5.0 Quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Le:
Approx. 4.5 Quarts (Dry Fill)
Coolant Type:
50/50 mix of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) and distilled water
Common Complaint 1:
Water pump seal leaks (especially the 2.7L)
Common Complaint 2:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (plastic manifold)
Common Complaint 3:
Transmission solenoid pack failure (42LE)
Common Complaint 4:
Power steering pump whine/leaks
Common Complaint 5:
HVAC blend door actuator failure
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (at the time)
Generation:
Second Generation (1998-2004)
Design Updates 2000:
Minor cosmetic updates, improved interior materials, new stereo options
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1993-2004
Initial Reception:
Generally well-received for its styling and comfort, but faced criticism for some mechanical reliability issues common to Chrysler products of the era.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable, with specific years and powertrains performing better than others.
Certification Type:
N/A (Industry standard automotive service manual)