Original Market Position:
Affordable family sedan, competing with models like the Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Escort, and Honda Civic.
Key Competitors 1995:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Escort, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra.
Design Philosophy:
Based on the Chrysler AA-body platform, sharing components with the Dodge Neon and Chrysler Cirrus.
Value Proposition:
Offered a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability in the compact segment.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures, component testing, specifications, timing belt/chain, lubrication system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system diagnosis and repair, ignition system, emissions control systems, engine tuning.
Transmission Manual:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, clutch system.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, hydraulic controls, torque converter.
Brakes System:
Hydraulic system diagnosis, caliper and wheel cylinder repair, disc and drum brake service, ABS system (if equipped).
Steering System:
Power steering diagnosis, pump and gearbox repair, steering linkage.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings).
Electrical System Overview:
Wiring diagrams, component location charts, power distribution.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Dashboard indicators, switches, climate control system diagnosis.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, signal lights, bulb replacement.
Body And Frame:
Exterior panel repair, dent removal, rust repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component removal and reinstallation.
Cleaning And Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning components during repair and proper reinstallation techniques.
Specifications:
Critical technical specifications, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls.
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
Not rated or available (typical for the era).
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
Not rated or available (typical for the era).
ABS:
Optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) available on some trims.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard; passenger-side airbag optional on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (recommend following manual for specific interval).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type used).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial for the 2.5L 420A engine; typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (refer to manual for exact interval).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Long Life (HOAT) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9224/MS-A732), check manual for specific type for '95.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 or equivalent.
Common Issues 1:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), head gasket leaks, electrical gremlins, A/C system failures, rust on rear wheel wells and rocker panels.
Common Issues 2:
Transmission issues (especially automatic transmission seals and solenoids), exhaust system leaks, power window regulator failures.