Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size car, available as coupe, convertible, and sedan.
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking an affordable, stylish, and comfortable American-made car.
Key Competitors:
Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima (depending on body style and price point).
Styling:
Aerodynamic design, particularly the coupe and convertible models, often featuring integrated bumpers and pop-up headlights in earlier years of the generation.
Powertrain Options:
Four-cylinder and V6 engine options.
Convertible Variant:
Popularity of the convertible model contributed significantly to its market presence.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine construction, disassembly, assembly, overhaul, tuning, diagnostics.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, starting and charging system, sensors, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission removal, installation, overhaul, clutch service.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission removal, installation, overhaul, hydraulic system, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, driveshafts, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment, shock absorbers, struts.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horns.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, glass, interior trim, unibody construction.
Body Electrical:
Power locks, power windows, power mirrors, alarm system, convertible top operation (if applicable).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fan.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Electrical diagnostics, mechanical diagnostics, using specialized tools.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Detailed photos and diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, clearances, and specifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals varied, but often around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km) for standard plugs, higher for platinum.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For V6 engines (Mitsubishi and Chrysler), typically 60,000-90,000 miles (97,000-145,000 km). Critical maintenance item.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 is common for these model years (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API classification like SG/SH).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 or equivalent (or earlier specified ATF types like ATF+2/+3).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific color/type might vary (e.g., green).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (especially with electronically controlled automatics), electrical gremlins (window motors, power locks), coolant leaks (heater core, head gaskets on some engines), wear and tear on suspension components, convertible top hydraulic leaks or fabric degradation.
Common Problems List:
Transmission solenoids, power steering pump leaks, AC system failures, exhaust manifold cracks (especially V6), fuel pump failures.