Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact/Compact car, targeting budget-conscious buyers and young drivers
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, fuel-efficient, sporty styling for its class
Manual Purpose:
To empower owners and technicians with the knowledge for proper maintenance and repair, ensuring longevity and optimal performance
Technical Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance information
Estimated Pages:
Variable, typically 1000+ pages for full factory service manuals
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (Getrag), Automatic transmission (Chrysler A604/41TE), transaxle, clutch, driveshafts, CV joints
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (ABS/non-ABS), wheels, tires
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, comfort controls, body control module (BCM)
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, frame and structural components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul procedures (e.g., engine teardown, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement)
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, wiring schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics
Digital Format:
PDF (Searchable text, printable pages, bookmarked chapters)
Print Quality:
High-resolution images, clear diagrams, crisp text (for printed versions)
Binding Type:
Wire-O, perfect bound, or comb binding (for printed versions)
Paper Type:
Durable, coated paper stock (for printed versions)
Engine Code 1997:
420A (2.0L SOHC I4)
Engine Code 1999 2000:
420A (2.0L SOHC I4), EDZ (2.4L DOHC I4 - ACR trim)
Engine Code 2004:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC I4), GEMA (2.0L DOHC I4 - GT trim)
Horsepower 420A:
116-132 hp (depending on year and application)
Torque 420A:
124-131 lb-ft (depending on year and application)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or coil-on-plug (depending on year/engine)
Transmission Type 1997:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag)
Transmission Type 1999 2000 2004:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag)
Transmission Type 1997:
3-Speed Automatic (Chrysler A604/41TE)
Transmission Type 1999 2000 2004:
4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 41TE)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic (on 41TE)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Four stars (First Generation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Four stars (First Generation)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (some variations based on year/specific tests)
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on some later models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific engine)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (420A), 5.0 quarts (4G64/GEMA) - consult manual for exact capacity
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30, 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Engine 420A:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, intake manifold gasket leaks, coil pack failures, occasional starter issues.
Transmission Automatic:
Harsh shifting, internal seal failures (particularly on earlier A604 units), transmission control solenoid issues.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, noisy sway bar links, strut mount failures.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, dashboard warning light illumination (ABS, Check Engine), grounds corrosion.
Body Chassis:
Rattles and squeaks from interior trim, door hinge wear, rust on wheel wells and rocker panels (especially in northern climates).
Manufacturer:
Dodge (Chrysler Corporation/DaimlerChrysler)
First Generation:
1995-2000 (PL platform), characterized by unique cab-forward styling and a focus on affordability.
Second Generation:
2000-2006 (PL/PX platform), featured updated styling, improved interiors, and revised powertrains. The 2000 model year represents a transition between generations.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Period Covered:
1995-2006
