🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Shadow

Year:

1990

Generation Name:

First Generation (1987-1994)

Platform:

Chrysler's K-car platform (P-body)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact car, available as hatchback and coupe.

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers, entry-level buyers, DIY mechanics.

Competitors:

Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Excel.

Design Philosophy:

Front-wheel-drive, aerodynamic styling, fuel efficiency.

Manual Advantage:

Online, accessible, licensed OE data, cost-effective alternative to printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 1990 Dodge Shadow

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnosis, maintenance, repair procedures, specifications, wiring diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

Difficult to determine precise page count for software; covers full factory-level detail.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software (Digital)

Language:

English

Format:

Online/Web-based access with one-year subscription

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles

Brakes:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped)

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, power accessories, chassis electrical

Body Chassis:

Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame, exhaust system

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system

Instrumentation:

Instrument cluster, warning lights, sensors, and gauges.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, tailpipe, and related components.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation

Troubleshooting:

Fault finding for electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical circuit diagrams for all major systems

Recalibration:

Procedures for recalibrating various systems after component replacement, though limited to the technology of the era.

Depth:

Factory-level detail covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on diagnostic connectors and procedures, though specific OBD-I code reader usage may be detailed separately.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Web-based access via browser, no specific file format like PDF mentioned; designed for online use.

Print Quality Digital:

N/A (Digital format, but derived from OE materials which are high quality).

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

Device Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (requires internet connection and web browser)

Subscription Period:

1 Year (with options for extension)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (153 cu in) Turbocharged I4 (for Shelby and performance models), 2.2L (135 cu in) Turbocharged I4, 2.2L (135 cu in) Naturally Aspirated I4.

Engine Code Example:

2.2L Turbo: T1 (L-body), T2 (P-body); 2.5L Turbo: T3 (P-body).

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 96 hp (2.2L NA) to 175 hp (2.5L Turbo).

Torque Range:

Approximately 130 lb-ft (2.2L NA) to 203 lb-ft (2.5L Turbo).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all 1990 models.

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane for Turbo models).

Specific Engines:

2.2L (K) I4 NA, 2.2L (T1) I4 Turbo, 2.2L (T2) I4 Turbo, 2.5L (T3) I4 Turbo.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite A413).

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel-drive transaxle design.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 96.7 inches (2456 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.9 inches (4265 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.0 inches (1702 mm)

Height:

Approx. 52.2 inches (1326 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2400-2700 lbs (1089-1225 kg) depending on engine and trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1990 models are difficult to pinpoint without a comprehensive database search; generally considered adequate for the era.

Braking System:

Front disc, rear drum brakes standard. Optional front ventilated discs and rear drum. Rear drum parking brake.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on higher trims, particularly Turbo models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard equipment in 1990 across all Dodge models, including the Shadow.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts. Automatic shoulder belts for front occupants were common.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Optional premium sound systems available. Digital tuning and graphic equalizer were sometimes offered.

Dashboard Controls:

Basic analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature) and manual controls for HVAC and lighting.

Cruise Control:

Optional on many trims, especially non-turbo models.

Power Options:

Power steering, power brakes, power windows, power door locks were available on higher trims or as options.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were available in 1990).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum or other advanced types.

Timing Belt:

If equipped with the 2.2L or 2.5L engine, timing belt replacement typically at 60,000 to 70,000 miles is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher) depending on ambient temperature. Check manual for exact specs.

Coolant:

Chrysler Type A or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions typically use SAE 75W-90 gear oil or ATF+3.

Common Problems:

Turbocharger failure (on turbo models), intake manifold gaskets, EGR valve issues, rust (especially on body panels and suspension components), electrical connector corrosion, oxygen sensor failures, power window regulator failures.

Specific Failures:

Timing belt failure on 2.2L/2.5L engines can cause bent valves. Turbo models may experience oil leaks from the turbocharger and associated plumbing.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing reliable and often performance-oriented vehicles.

Shadow Introduction:

The Dodge Shadow was introduced for the 1987 model year as a replacement for the Charger and Omni, sharing its platform with the Plymouth Sundance.

1990 Updates:

For 1990, key updates included the standard driver's side airbag, revised interior trim, and the introduction of the 2.5L Turbo engine in the performance Shelby variant.

Production Period:

1987-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1990 Shadow are not widely documented, the Dodge Shadow and its Plymouth Sundance counterpart were noted for their value and fuel efficiency in their segment during their production run. Performance variants, like the Shelby Shadow, received attention for their spirited driving dynamics.