Segment:
Compact Sedan / Hatchback
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking in-depth vehicle knowledge.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Mitsubishi Lancer.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information for a wide range of common vehicle issues.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
OBD-II scanner, multimeter, basic hand tools, specialized automotive tools (e.g., torque wrenches, compression tester).
Primary Markets:
North America, Europe (as Chrysler SX 2.0)
Trim Levels:
All available trim levels for the specified model years (e.g., SE, SXT)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission, Automatic transmission (including electronic control), clutch system, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear discs, ABS, EBD), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio systems, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, diagnostics (OBD-II).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof systems, bumpers, HVAC, emissions control.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnosis.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics).
Engine Code:
4G15 (1.5L SOHC I4) / 4G94 (2.0L SOHC MIVEC I4)
Displacement Liters:
1.5L or 2.0L
Cylinders:
Inline 4-cylinder (I4)
Horsepower 1.5L:
Approx. 103 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1.5L:
Approx. 107 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 125-135 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market/tuning)
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 130-140 lb-ft @ 3500-4500 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Octane Rating:
87 Octane (or as specified in owner's manual)
Catalytic Converter:
Yes, standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
Automatic Control:
Electronic control, potentially with 'Sport' or 'Snow' modes on some variants.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF SP-II M or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Length:
Approx. 4330 mm (170.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by configuration (typically around 1700 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific rating may vary)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific equipment and test year)
ABS:
Standard or Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Optional (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Airbags Front:
Standard (Driver and Passenger) SRS Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional (Front Seat Side Airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette or CD changer.
Speaker System:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker configuration.
Cruise Control:
Standard or Optional.
Traction Control:
Optional on some higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely available from factory; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - iridium recommended for longer life).
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with a timing belt, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (crucial to confirm for specific engine variant).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 Quarts (with filter).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent Asian-spec OAT/HOAT coolant)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0-7.0 Quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine:
Occasional issues with oil consumption, timing belt wear (if applicable), and sensor failures.
Transmission:
Some automatic transmissions may exhibit shifting issues or solenoid failures. Manual transmissions are generally robust.
Suspension:
Front strut mounts, ball joints, and sway bar links can wear over time.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, and occasional HVAC blower motor problems.
Body:
Rust formation in wheel wells and rocker panels can occur in areas with road salt.
Dodge Positioning:
Positioned as Dodge's value-oriented compact offering, often with a sporty or youthful appeal.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Mitsubishi Lancer platform, sharing significant mechanical and structural components.
Market Introduction:
Introduced to fill a gap in Dodge's lineup, offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient option.
Production Years:
2002-2005 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Likely assembled in Japan or North America, utilizing Mitsubishi production facilities.
Safety Awards:
None specifically highlighted, but generally competed in segments with decent safety credentials for its time.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable; generally average to below average compared to segment leaders.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets U.S. EPA and CARB emission standards for the respective model years.
