Vehicle Class:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Families, commuters seeking practical and affordable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on practicality, comfort, and value within the Chrysler lineup.
Platform Sharing:
Utilized the Chrysler JA platform, shared with models like the Dodge Stratus and Plymouth Breeze.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition.
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and repair of all engine performance issues, emission controls.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE/AE) service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, axles, differential service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkage, tie rods, diagnosis.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system service, diagnosis, refrigerant handling.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, trouble code interpretation, diagnostic flowcharts.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for virtually every repair on the vehicle.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic guides for identifying and resolving malfunctions.
Component Rebuild:
Instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 1998:
Not available in a standardized format for this year.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Safety:
Rear child seat anchor points (LATCH system not standard).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Interval:
Initial change at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter (or as specified in manual).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as per manual based on usage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs (if equipped), or as per manual for standard plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (refer to manual for specific viscosity under different temperature ranges).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.0L; 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.5L V6
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Common Problems 1:
Transmission issues (e.g., solenoid failures, harsh shifting) in the 41TE/AE automatic transmission.
Common Problems 2:
Premature wear on suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends.
Common Problems 3:
Interior trim pieces may become brittle or dislodge over time.
Common Problems 4:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and other seals.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (part of DaimlerChrysler AG for 1998).
Generation:
First Generation (1995-2000)
Design Evolution 1998:
Minor updates may have occurred for the 1998 model year, but the core design remained consistent with the initial launch.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
