🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Spirit

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

Platform:

JC49 Platform (extended K-Car)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sedan and Coupe (based on K-Car platform).

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Tempo, Honda Civic/Accord, Toyota Corolla/Camry, Nissan Sentra/Altima.

Platform Heritage:

Evolved from the successful Chrysler K-Car platform, offering improved styling and features over earlier iterations.

Value Proposition:

Offered a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, often with a more distinct Dodge styling.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Engines Trim Transmissions:

Yes, all variants are covered.

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection (EFI/MPI), ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, turbocharging (if applicable to specific variants).

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch, shift mechanisms, gear ratios.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul (e.g., A413, A670), hydraulic controls, torque converter, shift solenoids, cooling.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential, driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (torsion beams or trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or rear discs on some variants), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ignition switch.

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).

Body Exterior:

Bumpers, grille, hood, trunk lid, glass, seals, exterior trim, paint and rust prevention.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for ECU related issues.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.

Engine Repair:

Complete engine teardown and reassembly, piston ring replacement, valve job, head gasket replacement, timing belt/chain service.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission fluid service, torque converter replacement, internal transmission component repair.

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake line replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder repair.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, control arm bushings, tie rod end replacement, strut/shock replacement, power steering pump/rack repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness repair, component testing (e.g., sensors, actuators), ECU diagnostics, alternator/starter testing.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, AC compressor service.

Body Repair:

Dent repair, panel replacement, door lock/window regulator repair, glass replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, mobile phones (requires Adobe Reader).

Printability:

Printable by page, chapter, or entire document.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

2.5L (153 cu in) Mitsubishi 4G53/4G52 Inline-4 SOHC

Optional Engine 1:

2.5L (153 cu in) Mitsubishi 4G63 Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged (GTS model)

Optional Engine 2:

3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 SOHC

Horsepower 2.5L Na:

Approx. 100-109 hp (depending on year and specific tuning)

Torque 2.5L Na:

Approx. 135-140 lb-ft

Horsepower 2.5L Turbo:

Approx. 145-156 hp (GTS model)

Torque 2.5L Turbo:

Approx. 170-180 lb-ft

Horsepower 3.0L V6:

Approx. 138-143 hp

Torque 3.0L V6:

Approx. 165-170 lb-ft

Injection Type:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Throttle Body Injection (TBI) on earlier/base models.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A413, A670).

AWD:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was generally not an option for the Dodge Spirit; it was primarily a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicle.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 100.3 inches (2548 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.7 inches (4514 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.9 inches (1370 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2600-2900 lbs (1180-1315 kg) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

The NHTSA ratings for this specific model year range can vary, but generally, vehicles of this era received 3-4 star ratings for frontal impact. Specific data would be in the manual.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on higher trims or later model years.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard in the early 1990s. Passenger airbags were less common or optional.

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (later models likely had 3-point rear belts on outboard positions).

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player in later years. Basic analog controls.

Speaker System:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers, with optional premium sound systems on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

OBD Ii:

The OBD-II standard was not fully implemented until the 1996 model year. This manual will likely cover Chrysler's proprietary diagnostic systems (e.g., DRB scan tool).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for exact specs.

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with every oil change. Specific part numbers like FRAM PH3731 or equivalent are common.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Specific part numbers vary by engine.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-45,000 miles. Crucial for MPI systems.

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or SL rated, 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity depending on climate. Consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) for later models, or IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) for older coolants. Green or Orange colored. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 for later models, earlier models may use ATF+2. Crucial to use the correct type for longevity.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration and clunking noises.

Ignition Components:

Distributor cap, rotor, spark plug wires, and ignition coil can fail, causing misfires and poor performance.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and heater core leaks are common due to age and material degradation.

Suspension Bushings:

Control arm bushings, sway bar links, and strut mounts can wear out, causing noise and poor handling.

Automatic Transmission:

Some models can develop shifting issues or torque converter problems. Regular fluid changes are critical.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion in electrical connectors, especially ground points, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Part of Dodge's lineup focusing on practical, yet stylish, compact to mid-size vehicles.

K Car Ancestry:

The Spirit was one of the last iterations of Chrysler's successful K-Car platform, offering a more aerodynamic and updated design compared to the original K-cars.

Production Period:

The Dodge Spirit was produced from the 1989 to 1995 model years.

Assembly Location:

Typically assembled in North America (e.g., United States or Canada).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the Spirit itself wasn't a recurring 10Best winner, its platform and related models from Chrysler (like the Dodge Lancer or Plymouth Acclaim/Reliant) sometimes appeared on competitor lists or were recognized for value.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by model year and engine. Generally, the Mitsubishi engines were more reliable than some of the Chrysler-designed engines. Specific data is in the manual or past reports.