Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sedan (part of the 'cab-forward' design era)
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking comfortable, spacious, and stylish transportation with a focus on distinctive styling.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Pontiac Grand Prix.
Competitive Advantage:
Distinctive cab-forward styling, spacious interior, unique design language, and a focus on driver ergonomics. Positioned as a more stylistic and expressive alternative to some competitors.
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, maximizing interior space and improving visibility. Aerodynamic styling.
Interior Space:
Known for its remarkably spacious interior for its class, attributed to the cab-forward layout.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with V6 engines, providing a balance of performance and refinement.
Systems Covered:
Introduction, Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension and Driveshaft, Brakes, Cooling System, Electrical, Engines, Exhaust System and Intake Manifold, Frame and Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Wheels and Tires, Body Components, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems, Component and System Index
Estimated Page Count:
Varies based on specific publication, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals.
Manual Type:
Service Workshop Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Detailed coverage of engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, piston/connecting rod, crankshaft/main bearings, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, pump, filter, injectors), ignition system, exhaust system, intake manifold, and emission control systems.
Transmission Systems:
Covers transaxle (automatic transmission) overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications, and torque converter service.
Braking Systems:
Complete information on hydraulic system, disc brakes (front and rear), drum brakes (if applicable), parking brake, ABS system (if equipped), and brake fluid specifications.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications, and driveshaft service.
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories, fuses, relays, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant handling, and climate control system service.
Body And Chassis:
Information on frame and bumper repair, body panel replacement, interior trim, exterior trim, door operation, glass replacement, and chassis lubrication.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks and changes (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug service, battery maintenance, tire rotation, and lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and installing all major vehicle components and systems, including engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension and steering repairs, and electrical component diagnosis.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation for engine control and ABS systems, and electrical circuit testing.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, engine timing specifications, wheel alignment settings, and diagnostic data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as specified in the manual. Critical for longevity.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years, using the specified coolant type.
Engine Oil Grade:
Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, refer to owner's manual for exact specification based on temperature.
Engine Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) compatible antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on early 3.3L engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan seals.
Transmission Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter clutch shudder, potential for planetary gear set failure if maintenance is neglected.
Electrical Issues:
Faulty power window motors, HVAC blower motor resistors, instrument cluster failures, and ABS sensor failures were not uncommon.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings due to mileage.
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar: MO-090, Fram: PH3751, Wix: 51365 (Verify exact fitment with a parts catalog).
Air Filter Example:
Mopar: 4746118, Fram: CA3408, Wix: 42616 (Verify exact fitment with a parts catalog).