Segment:
Compact crossover/hatchback
Target Market:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking versatility and a practical form factor.
Key Competitors 2011:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer.
Selling Points:
Affordability, spacious interior for its class, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on select trims, practical hatchback design.
Authenticity:
Vehicle-specific, not generic, mirroring dealership technician resources.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (CVT for some variants), clutch system, driveline, axles, driveshafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, power windows/locks, climate control, audio system.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, bumpers, HVAC system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, diagnosis and repair of common faults, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical schematics, flowcharts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic diagnostics to full component rebuilds, including detailed specifications and procedures.
Target Audience:
Professional dealership technicians, experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Family:
World Engine (Chrysler ECE)
Base Engine Displacement:
2.0 L
Base Engine Type:
Inline-4 (I4)
Base Engine Power:
158 hp @ 6300 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Optional Engine Displacement:
2.4 L
Optional Engine Type:
Inline-4 (I4)
Optional Engine Power:
172 hp @ 6000 rpm
Optional Engine Torque:
165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Emissions Standard:
Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 (typical for 2011 US models)
NHTSA Front Impact:
★★★★ (4-star driver, 5-star passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
★★★★★ (5-star)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (for models tested)
Standard Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (standard on most trims).
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player; optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional Uconnect Navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Camera:
Optional rearview camera (often integrated with navigation system).
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
Usb Port:
Available on models with upgraded infotainment systems for media playback.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (severe duty) / Every 8,000 miles or 12 months (normal duty), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (check condition more frequently).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change Cvt:
Every 60,000 miles (severe duty) / Every 100,000 miles (normal duty) - requires specific CVT fluid.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using HOAT coolant).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20, API SN certified (or equivalent).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) type, P/N 05103532AA (Orange) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Cvt Fluid Spec:
Mopar CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid), P/N 05123853AA or equivalent.
Common Problems Cvt:
CVT belt slipping, shuddering, premature failure (especially in early production models or those with neglected maintenance).
Common Problems Suspension:
Front suspension clunking/rattling (often due to worn control arm bushings or strut mounts).
Common Problems HVAC:
HVAC blower motor failure, AC compressor issues, blend door actuator problems.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, various sensor failures (e.g., O2 sensors, crankshaft position sensor).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Did not consistently achieve Top Safety Pick status in the 2011 model year, though it performed well in specific crash tests.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to below-average in reliability by consumer organizations during its production run, particularly concerning the CVT transmission.
Emissions Certification:
Meets Federal EPA emissions standards for its model year.
