Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, young drivers, enthusiasts seeking a cost-effective and modifiable vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mitsubishi Eclipse
Design Philosophy:
Bold, aerodynamic styling, sporty appearance for its class, driver-focused interior.
Performance Perception:
Known for its peppy engines (especially the SOHC and DOHC variants) and agile handling.
Value Proposition:
Affordable entry price, low operating costs, good fuel economy.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel injection, emission control systems, turbocharger (if applicable)
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission: clutch, gearshift mechanism, internal components, lubrication
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission: torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, cooling
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive axles, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers
Engine Control System:
ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, CKP, CMP), actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hoods, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system
Body Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), central locking, security system, airbags
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Use of diagnostic tools, reading and interpreting sensor data, circuit testing
Rebuilding Procedures:
Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major components
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.
Body Styles:
2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan
Wheelbase:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length:
Approximately 174.1 inches (4422 mm) for Sedan, 171.3 inches (4351 mm) for Coupe
Width:
Approximately 67.4 inches (1712 mm)
Height:
Approximately 53.9 inches (1370 mm) for Coupe, 54.5 inches (1384 mm) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2600 - 2800 lbs (1179 - 1270 kg), depending on configuration
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 2.0L DOHC (AG) engines: Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km). Failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine). The 1.8L SOHC (420A) uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher for 1995-1996, SH or higher for 1997-1999)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change (check manual for exact capacity).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar Pentofrost 3 or equivalent. Color can be green or orange/red depending on specific formulation.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar designation)
Engine Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 2.0L DOHC), intake manifold gasket leaks, timing belt failure on DOHC engines, starter motor issues, alternator failure.
Transmission Problems:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues, manual transmission synchro wear, clutch wear.
Suspension And Steering Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, tie rod ends, ball joints, noisy power steering pump.
Electrical Issues:
Faulty power window regulators, door lock actuators, intermittent dashboard warning lights, SRS (airbag) warning lamp issues.
Body And Interior Issues:
Rust on wheel arches and rocker panels, fading paint, interior trim rattles.
Manufacturer:
Chrysler Corporation (Dodge brand)
Introduction Year:
1994 (as a 1995 model year vehicle)
Platform Name:
Project PL (Chrysler's first truly global car platform)
Design Origin:
Designed with significant input from Chrysler's European operations (Peugeot/Talbot heritage evident in some aspects).
Manufacturing Locations:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA; Toluca, Mexico
Lifespan:
1995-2005 (First generation PL: 1995-2000, Second generation PT: 2000-2005)
