Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Competitive Set 2007:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7.
Key Differentiators:
Affordability, available V6 engine option, generous standard features for its class and price point.
Vehicle Type:
Compact SUV with unibody construction.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty and rugged styling, practical interior with good cargo space, available all-wheel drive.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, engine control systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, clutch, drive axles, differentials, 4WD system.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, parking brake, disc and drum brake components, fluid specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, locks, audio system.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, climate control, blower motor, refrigerant, diagnosis.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, trim, seals.
Body Interior:
Seating systems, airbags, dashboard, center console, interior trim, seat belts.
Chassis:
Frame, subframes, mounts, body structure.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC explanations, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., GDS).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, circuit testing, component testing.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, dimensional data.
Depth:
Full factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact Est:
4/5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact Est:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Side Impact Rating Est:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Traction Control:
Available (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available (ESC)
Airbags Front:
Standard (Driver and Passenger Front Airbags)
Airbags Side:
Optional (Front Side-Impact Airbags)
Airbags Curtain:
Optional (Full-Length Side Curtain Airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2.0L:
Every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium type recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2.7L:
Every 60,000 miles (Platinum type recommended).
Engine Oil Type 2.0L:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher (Synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended).
Engine Oil Type 2.7L:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher (Synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.7 Liters (5.0 US quarts)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water (e.g., Mopar/Chrysler HOAT or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF SP-III (DEXRON III compatible, but SP-III is preferred for long-term reliability).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issues Engine 2.7L V6:
Timing belt replacement is crucial (interval typically 90,000 miles); failure can cause severe engine damage. Also, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks.
Common Issues Suspected 2.0L:
Can experience oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. CVVT rattle on startup.
Common Issues Transmission:
4-speed automatic can sometimes be sluggish or exhibit delayed shifting. Regular fluid changes are important.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Front lower control arm bushings, sway bar links, and wheel bearings are common wear items.
Common Issues Electrical:
Power window regulators can fail. Alternator and starter motor longevity can vary.