Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Key Competitors 1996-2005:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Lumina APV/Silhouette, Mercury Villager.
Design Philosophy:
Practicality, spaciousness, family-oriented transport.
Distinctive Attributes:
Sliding rear doors, flexible seating configurations, Stow 'n Go (later generations), accessible pricing.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor/injection), ignition, exhaust, emissions control.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (A604, 41TE, 42LE), manual transmission (if applicable), transaxle, differential, CV joints, driveshafts.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, front and rear disc/drum brake components, parking brake, hydraulic fluid specifications.
Steering And Suspension:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C) system operation, refrigerant R134a, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), climate control systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, frame, rust prevention, sound deadening.
Interior:
Seats, seat belts, airbags, dashboard, center console, trim panels, door panels, carpeting, headliner.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake inspection, tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault codes, symptom-based diagnosis for engine, transmission, electrical, and HVAC systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, rebuilding, and replacement across all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, using scan tools, testing electrical circuits, pressure testing, and mechanical component testing.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Option 1:
2.4L Inline-4 (4G64, Mitsubishi Eclipse engine)
Engine Option 2:
3.0L V6 (3.0L 6G72 SOHC, Mitsubishi engine)
Engine Option 3:
3.3L V6 (3.3L EGE SOHC, Chrysler)
Engine Option 4:
3.8L V6 (3.8L EGH SOHC, Chrysler)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 130 hp (2.4L) to 180 hp (3.8L)
Torque Range:
Approx. 155 lb-ft (2.4L) to 235 lb-ft (3.8L)
Fuel Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Required Octane:
87 (Octane Rating)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Likely 4-star driver, 5-star passenger (varies by year/test protocol)
IIHS Small Overlap Front Crash Rating:
Not applicable to models tested by IIHS during this period.
Active Safety Features Available:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most models, Traction Control System (TCS) - optional on some V6 models.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, optional side airbags (later years), crumple zones, reinforced safety cage, height-adjustable seat belts.
Infotainment Options Early:
AM/FM radio with cassette, optional CD player, basic climate controls.
Infotainment Options Late:
Optional premium audio systems, in-dash CD/DVD players, rear-seat entertainment screens (late GS models).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking assist sensors (optional on later models).
Connectivity Features:
Power outlets, optional rear audio controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (ATF+4 recommended for Chrysler transmissions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with Mitsubishi 4G64 engine (interference engine), recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles. V6 engines use a timing chain.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler/Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Transmission issues (e.g., torque converter shudder, shifting problems) in early models, particularly with the A604 transaxle. 41TE/42LE generally more robust.
Common Issue 2:
Cracked dashboard common due to sun exposure.
Common Issue 3:
Power window motor failures, door lock actuator issues.
Common Issue 4:
Erosion of intake manifold gaskets (plastic manifold).
Common Issue 5:
Water pump leaks and thermostat housing issues.
