Market Segment:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers seeking an affordable and practical compact vehicle.
Key Competitors 2003:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling for its class, practical interior, emphasis on value.
Value Proposition:
Affordable purchase price, competitive fuel economy, and straightforward mechanics.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine construction, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, valve train.
Engine Performance:
Engine tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control systems (OBD-II).
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission assembly, clutch system, shift linkages, gear ratios.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, hydraulic controls, torque converter, shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differentials.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link beam axle), shocks, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or all-disc), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, power booster, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, climate control.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, glass, mirrors, paint and finish.
Climate Control:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, operation, diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing various parts like alternators, water pumps, radiators, starters.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for 2003 model year, specific test results may vary)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2003 model year, specific test results may vary)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable (for 2003 model year, specific test results may vary)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Engine EDZ uses a timing chain, not a belt)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on earlier 2.0L engines), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, occasional issues with crankshaft position sensor.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission hard shifting or slipping (often related to fluid condition or solenoids), clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Suspension Issues:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn ball joints, noisy sway bar links.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor issues.
