Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Coupe, positioned as a value-oriented option within its class.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Selling Points:
Focus on affordability, spacious interior for its class, and styling designed to appeal to a broad market. Offered with both four-cylinder and V6 engine options.
Diy Assistance:
Enables DIY mechanics to diagnose and repair electrical issues, saving on labor costs. 'Find it...Print it...Use it...then Trash it' philosophy emphasizes practical, on-demand access.
Electrical Systems:
Engine Control (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior Lights), Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Audio System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Airbag System (SRS), Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Diagnostic Connector (OBD-II), Fuses, Relays, Wiring Harnesses.
Chassis Electrical:
Includes diagrams for power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry (if equipped), power mirrors, interior lighting, horn, seat adjustments, and more.
Safety Systems:
Wiring for Airbag system (SRS), ABS system, seat belt pretensioners.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of electrical faults, circuit tracing, component testing, pinout identification, connector diagrams.
Component Identification:
Detailed views of connectors, terminals, and component locations with accompanying wire routing information.
Depth:
Detailed schematics, component locations, wire color codes, connector views, fuse/relay assignments, power distribution diagrams.
Diagnostic Value:
Provides essential information for diagnosing intermittent electrical faults and short circuits that can be challenging to trace without proper schematics.
Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing users to create hard copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader (or compatible PDF viewer).
Engine Options:
2.0L SOHC I4 (Engine Code: 420A), 2.4L DOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDZ), 2.5L SOHC V6 (Engine Code: 6G73)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 118 hp (2.0L I4) to 164 hp (2.5L V6).
Torque Range:
Approximately 125 lb-ft (2.0L I4) to 153 lb-ft (2.5L V6).
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 quarts (7.1 Liters) with all-season coolant.
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for some engines, or Distributor Ignition (DI) depending on engine variant.
Type I4:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) for 2.0L, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) for 2.4L.
Type V6:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Length:
Approx. 190.3 inches (4834 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1497 kg) depending on engine and configuration.
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 15.0 cubic feet (Sedan).
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Fair to Good (depending on specific test and year, often rated lower for this era).
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models/trims.
Traction Control:
Not generally available on 1997 models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system, integrated into steering wheel or dashboard stalk.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, located under the dashboard for emissions and powertrain diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Spec:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or SAE 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature, check owner's manual).
Coolant Spec:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Common Electrical Faults:
Headlight switch failures, power window motor issues, intermittent gauge cluster problems, ambient temperature sensor failures, ABS sensor faults.
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks on V6 engines, EGR valve issues, ignition coil failures, radiator hose leaks.
Common Transmission Issues:
Slipping or hard shifting on automatic transmissions, clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 51522, Fram PH3731, Purolator L14006 (Always verify for specific engine variant).
Air Filter Example:
Wix 42420, Fram CA3881 (Always verify for specific engine variant).
Standard Tire Size:
195/65R15 (on many models, can vary by trim and wheel option).
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler).
Platform:
Based on Chrysler's JA platform, sharing components with the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus.
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2005 (JA platform for 1995-2000, JR platform for 2001-2005).
Industry Accolades:
Generally considered a functional and affordable vehicle, but rarely received significant industry awards or top rankings in its class for performance or refinement.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varied reviews, often cited for average reliability and comfort compared to Japanese competitors. Specific reliability ratings fluctuate year to year.
