🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

RS

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

RS

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Subcompact Car or Small MPV (depending on the specific 'RS' variant, often referring to the Neon platform).

Key Competitors:

Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra.

Target Audience:

Mechanics, technicians, and experienced DIY automotive enthusiasts seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.

Manual Purpose:

To provide authoritative, factory-level information for servicing and repairing the Chrysler RS 2002.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed (based on common factory manual formats, PDF conversion may exist)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, torque specifications, timing procedures, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system components (injectors, pump, pressure regulator).

Engine Performance:

Ignition system (spark plugs, coils, wires), emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission service (removal, installation, overhaul, fluid checks, adjustments), shift control systems, torque converter procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axle shafts, differentials, drive shafts, and related components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints), wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, alignment.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), disc brake rotors, brake pads, drum brake systems, parking brake system, ABS system troubleshooting and components.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, controls), refrigerant handling and service.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, exterior trim, frame straightening procedures (though less common in this era).

Maintenance:

Oil change procedures, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad inspection.

Repair:

Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, fuel injectors, brake calipers), seal and gasket replacement, sensor replacement, minor body repair.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major components like engines, transmissions, suspension parts, interior panels, and exterior body panels.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Fault finding charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, electrical system diagnostics.

Installation:

Procedures for installing new or reconditioned parts, including proper torque specifications and alignment procedures.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely physical print (paper). If digital, it would typically be a PDF.

Print Resolution:

High-quality print expected for factory publications, clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Likely a sturdy bound format, possibly spiral or perfect bound for easy lay-flat use during repairs.

Paper Quality:

Durable, often coated paper to withstand shop environment and frequent use.

Estimated Pages:

Typically 1000+ pages for a complete factory service manual covering all aspects of a vehicle.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Likely a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (e.g., Chrysler's Sirius DOHC engine).

Displacement:

Approximately 1996 cc (2.0 Liters).

Horsepower:

Around 130-140 hp (depending on specific engine code and tuning).

Torque:

Around 130-135 lb-ft.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended).

Common Engine Code:

ECA or ECC (for the 2.0L DOHC engine).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission (A504/NVT550 or similar).

Transmission Type:

Likely a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE).

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.4 inches (2652 mm).

Length:

Approximately 174.4 inches (4430 mm).

Width:

Approximately 67.2 inches (1707 mm).

Height:

Approximately 56.1 inches (1425 mm).

Curb Weight:

Around 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 3700 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star rating (driver), 4-star rating (passenger) often achieved by vehicles of this class in 2002.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium sound systems may exist.

Display:

Basic digital or analog displays for climate and audio controls. No advanced infotainment screens.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily basic power accessories and possibly an aftermarket auxiliary input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specifics.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid changes are less frequent, often 60,000-100,000 miles.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 is common. Refer to manual for exact API classification (e.g., API SN or equivalent).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or a compatible HOAT coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Issues:

Potential for oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, spark plug blow-out (less common on later models).

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures, torque converter shudder, and occasional coolant leaks into the transmission cooler line (especially with the 41TE).

Suspension Issues:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Electrical Issues:

Faulty window regulators, power lock actuators, and sometimes issues with the instrument cluster or ignition switch.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Context:

Chrysler positioned as a more premium offering within the US market, often sharing platforms with Dodge and Plymouth.

Platform Sharing:

The Chrysler RS likely shares its platform and powertrain with the Dodge Neon (second generation, PL platform) and possibly the Plymouth Neon.

Production Era:

The second generation Neon (and thus likely the RS variant) was produced from 1999 to 2005.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

While the specific Chrysler RS designation might be less common, the Dodge Neon (its sibling) was often praised for its value and sporty handling in its class, though it rarely won major awards in the early 2000s.