Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Competitors:
Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Design:
European-influenced styling by Richard Obee.
Engineering:
Developed in conjunction with Mitsubishi Motors (platform sharing).
General Coverage:
Complete service and repair for 1997 Chrysler Cirrus and Stratus models.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual.
Readability:
Searchable text, printable pages.
Storage Media:
Quality CD-ROM.
Engine:
2.0L DOHC I4 (420A), 2.5L SOHC V6 (6G73).
Transmission:
41TE/42LE Automatic Transaxle.
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard), optional Front and Rear Disc.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link.
Steering:
Power Assisted Rack and Pinion.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnosis, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating systems.
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, glass, doors, locks.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based diagnosis.
Repair:
Engine component repair, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on necessary scan tools and diagnostic equipment.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0 Liters
Engine 1 Type:
420A DOHC I4 (Chrysler design, sourced from Mitsubishi 4G63).
Engine 1 Horsepower:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
128 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine 1 Bore Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters
Engine 2 Type:
6G73 SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi design).
Engine 2 Horsepower:
164 hp @ 5750 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2 Bore Stroke:
83.0 mm x 76.0 mm
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
8.9:1
Fuel System Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (91 octane recommended for optimal performance).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1997).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1997).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point shoulder/lap belts with pretensioners. Rear: Three-point shoulder/lap belts.
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH system not standard in 1997.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on select trims or as an option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
I4 (420A): 100,000 miles. V6 (6G73): 60,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years. Filter replacement recommended during fluid change.
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (using correct Mopar coolant).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent HOAT.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.
Engine Performance:
Potential for head gasket leaks in higher mileage V6 engines, especially if maintenance is neglected. Ignition coil issues on the I4.
Transmission Reliability:
The 41TE/42LE automatic transmission is generally robust but can suffer from solenoid issues or torque converter clutch problems if fluid is not changed regularly.
Suspension:
Front struts and rear shock absorbers can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride. Bushings can degrade.
Electrical:
Window regulators and power lock actuators can fail. Dashboard gauge cluster issues (e.g., dimming or failure) are not uncommon.
HVAC:
Blend door actuator failures in the HVAC system can lead to improper temperature control.
Chrysler Identity:
Chrysler positioned itself as a premium American marque, often offering more features for the price compared to competitors.
Platform Origin:
The JA platform was a collaboration with Mitsubishi, leading to vehicles like the Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus, and Plymouth Breeze.
Cirrus Vs Stratus:
Cirrus was generally positioned as the slightly more upscale model, often with better standard equipment, while Stratus offered a sportier image.
Design Influence:
The design was influenced by European styling trends and intended to compete with import sedans.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2000 (JA platform).
