Target Audience:
Dodge Spirit 1989 owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Manual Authenticity:
Genuine factory manual, not third-party
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of illustrations, diagrams, photos, enlarged insets
Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving labor costs
Engine Service:
Complete engine repair, overhaul, and diagnostics
Transmission Service:
Service and repair for automatic and manual transmissions
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, components, diagnostics, and service
Wiring Diagram:
Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams
Electrical System:
Comprehensive electrical diagnostics and component service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, and repair
Periodic Lubrication:
Lubrication points and specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, and components
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, and fan service
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection system components, and diagnostics
Emission System:
Emission control components, diagnostics, and adjustments
Heater Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, operation, and service
Engine Control System:
ECU diagnostics, sensors, and actuators
Chassis Body:
Body structure, panels, and chassis components
Restraint System:
Seat belts and airbag system (if applicable)
Interior:
Interior trim, seats, and related components
Differential Drive:
Drive axles, differential components, and service
Axle:
Front and rear axle assemblies
Maintenance:
General maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Advanced troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems
Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Refurbish Restore:
Procedures applicable to refurbishment and restoration projects
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail for professional technicians and owners
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, including electrical system analysis
Engine Options:
2.5L (153 cu in) I4 (Naturally Aspirated/Turbocharged options likely), 3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi V6 (likely)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 100-130 hp for 2.5L, Approx. 140-155 hp for 3.0L V6 (specific figures vary by tune)
Torque Range:
Approx. 135-145 lb-ft for 2.5L, Approx. 160-175 lb-ft for 3.0L V6 (specific figures vary by tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all engines
Body Styles:
4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length:
Approx. 178.1 inches (4524 mm) for sedan
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2700 - 3000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg), depending on engine and trim
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.5L Turbo II and 3.0L V6 engines, typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Non-turbo 2.5L likely has a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH service category, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity grade recommended (refer to manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar specific coolant or equivalent (green color).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 equivalent for automatic transmissions (check specific transmission model). Manual transmission likely uses gear oil.
Common Complaints:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.5L), carburetor/throttle body issues (if applicable to early models), electrical gremlins, rust on body panels, power window regulator failures.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation
Platform Origin:
P-Body platform shared with Plymouth Acclaim and Chrysler LeBaron coupe/convertible (though Spirit is distinct from LeBaron sedan).
Design Era:
Part of Chrysler's FWD compact car lineup introduced in the mid-1980s, evolving from earlier K-car derivatives.
Production Period:
1984-1995 (Spirit model)
Manufacturing Location:
Likely Sterling Heights, Michigan (Chrysler's primary North American assembly plant for this platform)