🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

LeBaron

Model Year:

1990

Platform Code:

J-body

Chassis Code:

J

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1990 Chrysler LeBaron occupied a segment of the compact/mid-size personal luxury coupe and convertible market, competing with models like the Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Cavalier Z24, and Pontiac Sunbird GT. It appealed to buyers seeking stylish, comfortable, and relatively affordable transportation.

Competitive Analysis:

The LeBaron offered a blend of European styling influence (especially in its earlier iterations) and American market expectations. Its convertible option was a significant draw in its segment. Competitors often focused on sportiness (Cavalier Z24) or a more traditional American coupe feel (Thunderbird).

Key Features:

Available as coupe, convertible, and sedan. Stylized interior and exterior design. Front-wheel drive platform. Turbocharged engine option provided spirited performance for the era.

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) and independent repair shops.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Extensive (Specific digital page count not provided, but described as comprehensive for all service and repair information)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)

Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Coverage:

2.5L Turbocharged I4 (Mitsubishi 4G53), 3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72), 2.5L Naturally Aspirated I4

Transmission Coverage:

3-speed automatic (A413, A604 FWD transaxle), 5-speed manual (Getrag FWD transaxle)

Brake Coverage:

Front disc, Rear drum; ABS system details where applicable

Suspension Coverage:

Front MacPherson struts, Rear Torsion beam axle or independent suspension (depending on model variant)

Steering Coverage:

Power rack and pinion

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse/relay identification, ECU diagnostics

HVAC Coverage:

Air conditioning system service, heater core, blower motor, climate controls

Body Coverage:

Exterior panels, interior trim, glass replacement, convertible top mechanism (if applicable)

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Detailed wiring schematics for all major electrical systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid service, tire rotation

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump), transmission service, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints), steering system repair, exhaust system repair, cooling system repair

Diagnostics Procedures:

Troubleshooting common drivability issues, electrical system diagnosis, fault code reading (OBD-I), component testing using multimeters

Troubleshooting Guide:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common problems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-derived information for all repair and maintenance tasks, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians alike. Covers basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based application accessible via standard web browsers

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, print functionality depends on user's printer)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Accessibility Devices:

Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet via internet connection and web browser.

Access Duration:

One-year access included, with discounts available for extended access.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L Turbocharged I4 (150 hp @ 4800 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm), 3.0L V6 (141 hp @ 4800 rpm, 172 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm), 2.5L Naturally Aspirated I4 (100 hp @ 4800 rpm, 130 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Varies by engine and transmission, typically 8-10 seconds for turbocharged models.

Fuel System Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some engines

ECU Type:

OBD-I compliant Chrysler engine control units

Engine Code 2 5L Turbo:

Optional: A525 (Turbocharged 2.5L Mitsubishi Astron engine)

Engine Code 3 0L V6:

Optional: ECE-303 (3.0L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 engine)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

3-speed automatic (A413 or A604 FWD transaxle)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (Getrag FWD transaxle)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive transaxle design

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

100.3 inches (2548 mm)

Length:

178.6 inches (4536 mm)

Width:

67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

53.3 inches (1354 mm) (Coupe/Convertible)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,700 - 3,000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg) depending on body style and engine.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified in product data, typically around 3,700 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Not readily available for this specific model year and configuration.

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags (standard on some trims), seat belts, reinforced safety cage.

Chassis Design:

Unibody construction with integrated crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Manual climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, power steering.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on engine.

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Varies by plug type, typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Consult manual for specific engine recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

For V6 engines: 60,000 miles. For 4-cylinder engines, consult manual as some may have chains.

Engine Oil Type Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on temperature). Consult manual for specific engine and ambient temperature requirements.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+2 or ATF+3

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green)

Known Issues Engine:

Turbocharger seal failures, head gasket leaks, oil consumption in older V6 engines.

Known Issues Transmission:

Valve body issues in automatic transmissions, clutch wear in manual transmissions.

Known Issues Electrical:

Failing power window motors, intermittent dashboard warning lights, aging wiring harness connections.

Known Issues Body:

Rust formation in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the convertible top frame. Convertible top hydraulic leaks or fabric degradation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter change for 4-cylinder; 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) for V6. Consult manual for exact specifications.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) for 4-cylinder, 8.0 quarts (7.6 L) for V6. Consult manual for exact specifications.

Tire Size Typical:

P185/70R14, P195/60R15 (Varies by trim and options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler has a long history of producing stylish and innovative American vehicles, often targeting the personal luxury and near-luxury segments. The LeBaron nameplate has been used on various Chrysler models over different eras, signifying a focus on comfort and a degree of prestige.

Model Evolution 1990:

The 1990 model represented the second generation of the J-body LeBaron, which debuted in 1987. This generation was characterized by its more aerodynamic styling, front-wheel-drive platform, and a wider range of powertrain options, including the popular turbocharged engine.

Production Period:

Second Generation: 1987-1992.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The LeBaron was often praised for its styling and convertible option, contributing to its sales success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a popular choice for buyers seeking affordable open-air motoring.