Market Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, spacious interior, focus on value and practicality
Target Audience:
Families, budget-conscious buyers, those seeking a reliable daily driver
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L, 2.4L DOHC), Transmission (Automatic - 42LE, Manual - Getrag A568)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Independent Trailing Arm), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front: Disc, Rear: Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Power Accessories, Audio System
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System, Exterior Lighting, Bumpers
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-Offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures, detailed diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications for all critical fasteners, electrical schematics for all systems.
Standard:
5-speed Manual (Getrag A568)
Optional:
4-speed Automatic (Chrysler 42LE)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, Torque converter lock-up
Automatic Fluid Type:
Mopar ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, Pretensioners for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.0L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 2.4L
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, SAE J1985 approved (e.g., Mopar 10 Year/100,000 Mile Coolant)
Common Problem 1:
Head gasket failures (especially on 2.4L engine)
Common Problem 2:
Transmission issues (sluggish shifting, torque converter lock-up problems with 42LE)
Common Problem 3:
Window regulator failures
Common Problem 4:
Cracked dashboards (common for vehicles exposed to prolonged sun)
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 51500, Fram PH3794
Air Filter Example:
Wix 49122, Fram CA7928
Brand:
Dodge (Chrysler Corporation)
Generation:
First Generation (1995-1997)
Design Origins:
Based on the Chrysler JA platform, shared with Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus.
Production Years:
1995-2000
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Consumer Ratings:
Mixed; often praised for interior space and value, criticized for build quality and reliability concerns.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Below average for its segment.
Emissions Certification:
Meets Federal EPA and California LEV standards for its model year.
