Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, repair shops
Key Competitors 1997:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Unique Selling Proposition:
Exceptional value for money, sporty handling (especially ACR models), spacious interior for its class
Manual Value:
Provides comprehensive factory-level repair information, saving significant costs on professional labor
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (16-valve) I4 (SOHC), 2.0L DOHC (16-valve) I4 (DOHC), including ACR variants
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (5-speed Getrag, 5-speed Aisin), Automatic Transmission (3-speed TorqueFlite A904/A999, 4-speed Automatic)
Brakes:
Front disc (Vented), Rear disc (Solid), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear independent multi-link suspension, alignment specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), lighting, instruments, power accessories
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass replacement, collision repair information
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure specifications
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant types and capacities
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold, gasket replacement
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, timing belt replacement
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement, seal replacement
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake bleeding, caliper and master cylinder service
Suspension And Steering:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering system service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, sensor diagnosis
Body And Interior Repair:
Door lock and window regulator repair, dashboard removal, upholstery repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, DTC interpretation, sensor data analysis
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete rebuild instructions for major mechanical components (engine, transmission)
Engine Code DOHc:
AGV (for ACR)
Displacement Sohc:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Displacement DOHc:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 RPM
Torque Sohc:
129 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM
Horsepower DOHc:
140 hp @ 6000 RPM (standard DOHC), 150 hp @ 6000 RPM (ACR DOHC)
Torque DOHc:
130 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (standard DOHC), 130 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (ACR DOHC)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Belt (SOHC), Timing Belt (DOHC)
Compression Ratio Sohc:
9.3:1
Compression Ratio DOHc:
10.0:1
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player available on higher trims
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker systems
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights
Auxiliary Input:
None (pre-dating widespread AUX/USB)
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on some higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (standard plugs) or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (if iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 70,000 - 90,000 miles (112,000 - 145,000 km) or 5-7 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue or Green
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 - 7.5 US Quarts (6.2 - 7.1 Liters), depending on engine and heater core
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), intake manifold gasket leaks, starter motor failure, head gasket issues on early models
Common Problems Transmission:
Clutch wear (manual), automatic transmission solenoid issues, torque converter problems
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, noisy wheel bearings
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty power window motors, cruise control issues, instrument cluster problems, evaporator temperature sensor failures
Common Problems Body:
Rattles and squeaks from interior trim, door lock actuator failures, potential for rust in certain climates