Make:
Dodge, Chrysler, Eagle
Model:
Intrepid, Concorde, Vision, New Yorker
Covered Vehicle Shell Car Lines:
LHDH (Dodge Intrepid), LHDP (Dodge Intrepid ES), LHLP (Chrysler Concorde), LHCH (Chrysler New Yorker), LHCP (Chrysler New Yorker LHS), LHXP (Eagle Vision ESI), LHXS (Eagle Vision TSI)
Positioning:
The 1997 Intrepid, Concorde, Vision, and New Yorker represented Chrysler's entry into the large, front-wheel-drive sedan market, targeting buyers seeking comfort, space, and a premium feel. This manual is essential for owners and independent repair shops servicing these vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed against domestic rivals like the Ford Taurus, Mercury Sable, Chevrolet Lumina, and Pontiac Grand Prix, as well as Japanese offerings such as the Toyota Avalon and Nissan Maxima. The LH platform offered a distinct styling and a focus on interior refinement.
Advantages Of This Manual:
Bookmark-based navigation for intuitive access to information, consolidated PDF format for ease of use, comprehensive coverage by the original manufacturer, and suitability for both basic maintenance and advanced repair tasks. Offers a distinct advantage over other less organized digital manuals.
Primary Coverage:
Body, Chassis, Electrical, Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Restraints, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific model and engine, but typical for a comprehensive manufacturer service manual of this era (e.g., 1500-2500+ pages).
Type:
Original Manufacturer Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
3.3L V6, 3.5L V6 (VIN G - specific variant), Automatic Transaxle 42LE. Includes engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, cooling, lubrication, and transmission overhaul.
Chassis And Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheel alignment, driveshafts, CV joints, and wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) if equipped, brake component replacement, bleeding procedures, and hydraulic circuit diagnostics.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system coverage including battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and body control modules. Extensive wiring diagrams provided.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, climate control system (HVAC), airbags, and restraint systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, and component testing procedures.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems. Includes torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and component inspections.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance from basic servicing to full component overhaul and advanced diagnostics, as used by dealership mechanics.
PDF Features:
Fully bookmarked by chapter title (not code file names), single consolidated file, checked and reorganized for usability, compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7 and Mac.
Printability:
Print specific pages or the entire manual.
Binding:
Not applicable (digital PDF format).
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital PDF format).
Engine Options:
3.3L V6 (EGX/EGA Engine Code), 3.5L V6 (LPS Engine Code - High Output version for some trims).
3.3L V6:
Displacement: 3.3 Liters (199.7 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.70 in x 3.07 in (94 mm x 78 mm), Compression Ratio: 8.4:1, Horsepower: ~155-160 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm, Torque: ~200-205 lb-ft @ 3600-3800 rpm.
3.5L V6:
Displacement: 3.5 Liters (215 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.82 in x 3.27 in (97 mm x 83 mm), Compression Ratio: 9.3:1, Horsepower: ~214-215 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm, Torque: ~235-240 lb-ft @ 4200-4500 rpm.
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for both engines.
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.
Spark Plugs:
Refer to specific engine and tune-up section in manual. Typically Champion or NGK plugs for this era.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Both engines utilize a timing chain, eliminating the need for periodic replacement.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Transmissions:
None specified for this year and platform; the 42LE was the standard automatic transaxle.
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with adaptive shifting capabilities.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid - Specification MS-9602 or equivalent. Older Mopar ATF+ or ATF+2 may be superseded). Manual specifies ATF+ for the 42LE.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8-10 quarts (7.6-9.5 liters) for a fluid change and filter replacement, depending on specific model and torque converter fill. Total capacity can be higher.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.0 inches (2870 mm) for all LH models.
Overall Length:
Approx. 197-200 inches (5004-5080 mm) depending on specific model.
Overall Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm).
Overall Height:
Approx. 56-57 inches (1422-1448 mm).
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and equipment, typically ranging from 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific GVWR.
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 16-18 cubic feet (453-509 liters).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Driver:
4-star (1997 Dodge Intrepid/Chrysler Concorde - 1997 models received mixed ratings, some good, some fair, depending on specific test configuration and year of NHTSA data review).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Passenger:
4-star (1997 Dodge Intrepid/Chrysler Concorde).
Antilock Brakes:
Available ABS on most models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM cassette or CD players, optional premium Infinity sound systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional electronic cruise control.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, and power seats (on higher trims like LHS) were common.
HVAC System:
Manual or Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) climate control systems. The ATC system offered digital readouts and automatic fan speed/temperature adjustments.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult the manual for specific recommendations based on synthetic or conventional oil.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule. Regular checking of fluid level and condition is crucial.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 2-3 years/30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Use Mopar OAT (Orange) coolant or equivalent.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For 3.3L, typically 60,000-100,000 miles. For 3.5L, often 100,000 miles with high-quality plugs. Refer to manual for exact intervals and plug types (e.g., Champion Platinum Power or NGK).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on ambient temperature. API certified.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler MS-9769) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 3.5L engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, water pump leaks, power steering pump leaks, automatic transmission solenoid issues (leading to shifting problems), premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), and electrical connector corrosion.
Chrysler Lh Platform:
The LH platform, launched in 1993, was a significant undertaking for Chrysler, representing a move to a more sophisticated, European-influenced design and engineering approach. It was engineered in conjunction with Lamborghini, which Chrysler owned at the time.
1997 Updates:
The 1997 model year for the LH platform saw minor updates including revised interior trim, improved sound insulation, and potentially some minor powertrain refinements. The core design remained from the initial launch.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada; Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The LH platform cars, including the Concorde and Intrepid, were frequently lauded for their styling and comfortable ride, though they did not consistently make '10Best' lists in this generation.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings for this era varied, with some praise for ride comfort and interior space, but often citing reliability concerns, particularly related to the powertrain and certain electrical components.
