Positioning:
Compact sedan targeted at value-conscious buyers, often competing with models like the Ford Tempo and Chevrolet Cavalier.
Competitors:
Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra.
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordability, practical interior space for its class, front-wheel drive layout.
Engine:
Internal combustion engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (A-413, A-604) service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle service, CV joints, differential maintenance.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system service, rack and pinion repair, steering column components.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake service.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, and accessories.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seals, bumpers.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling various vehicle components.
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning parts and proper reinstallation techniques.
Depth:
Designed for professional technicians but provides adequate data for DIY mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians, DIY mechanics, general automotive repair shops.
Engine Options:
2.5L (150 ci) K-Series Inline-4 (VIN N), 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 (VIN J - Shelby Spirit option), 3.0L (181 ci) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 (VIN Y)
2.5L I4 (Vin N) Power:
Approximately 109 hp @ 4800 rpm
2.5L I4 (Vin N) Torque:
Approximately 138 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
3.0L V6 (Vin Y) Power:
Approximately 141 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.0L V6 (Vin Y) Torque:
Approximately 171 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on some models)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - typically blue or green)
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic (A-413)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (A-604 - Ultradrive, electronic control)
Fluid Type A413:
ATF+3 (or equivalent Mopar specification)
Fluid Type A604:
ATF+3 (or equivalent Mopar specification)
Length:
Approximately 177.1 inches
Width:
Approximately 68.6 inches
Height:
Approximately 53.7 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 100.3 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,750 - 2,900 lbs (depending on engine and equipment)
NHTSA Driver Frontal:
Not consistently rated; generally considered adequate for its era.
NHTSA Passenger Frontal:
Not consistently rated; generally considered adequate for its era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on most 1995 models.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, shoulder belts for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player available.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels.
Interior Features:
Power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (or as per severe duty schedule)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type, consult manual)
Engine Oil Type:
API certified, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specification and ambient temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 quarts (with filter, depending on engine)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 quarts (depending on engine)
Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially on 2.5L engine), transmission issues (A-604 'Ultradrive' solenoids and control modules), power steering leaks, electrical gremlins (wiper motors, power windows), rear main seal leaks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and often performance-oriented vehicles, evolving from economical compacts to trucks and performance cars.
Spirit Development:
The Dodge Spirit was based on Chrysler's front-wheel-drive J-body platform, sharing many components with the Plymouth Acclaim and Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible. It was designed as a more aerodynamic successor to earlier Dodge compact sedans.
Production Years:
1989-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
