Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Car (Coupe, Convertible, Sedan)
Competitors 2004:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Mazda6, Nissan Altima
Body Styles:
Available as a coupe, convertible, and sedan.
Styling:
Designed with American market tastes in mind, offering a blend of sporty and practical aesthetics.
Value Proposition:
Offered competitive pricing and a range of features for its segment.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul and repair procedures for all engine variants, including timing, cooling, lubrication, and fuel systems.
Engine Management:
Engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator operation, emissions control systems, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Mechanical:
Service and repair of automatic and manual transmissions, including torque converter, gearsets, valve body, and seals.
Transmission Electronic:
Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, shift solenoids, sensor inputs, and troubleshooting.
Brake System:
Disc brake service (front and rear), hydraulic system bleeding, ABS operation, components, and diagnostics.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, ball joints, tie rods, springs, shocks, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, and associated components and procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse and relay identification, battery, charging system, and starting system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, and structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and troubleshooting.
Restraints:
Airbag system operation, SRS module diagnostics, sensor locations, and seatbelt mechanisms.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, and basic inspections.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults, including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Component Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Front Driver Side Impact:
4/5 Stars (for 2004 models)
Front Passenger Side Impact:
4/5 Stars (for 2004 models)
Side Impact Front Seat:
4/5 Stars (for 2004 models)
Side Impact Rear Seat:
5/5 Stars (for 2004 models)
Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2004 models)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Standard front airbags; optional side airbags available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (if equipped).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment type.
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed based on driving conditions and fluid condition. Recommended 60,000-100,000 miles for service.
Engine Oil 2.4L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher (Chrysler MS-6395 compliant)
Engine Oil 2.7L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher (Chrysler MS-6395 compliant)
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (Mopar part number 05103530AA or equivalent)
Transmission Problems:
Some instances of harsh shifting, torque converter shudder, and solenoid issues, particularly with the 41TE transmission.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine and transmission mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts can lead to clunking noises and steering looseness.