🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Cirrus

Year:

1997

Platform:

JA (Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth LH-derivative platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Chrysler Cirrus was positioned as a mid-size sedan, offering a balance of comfort, performance, and value in the late 1990s American automotive market. It aimed to compete with established players from Ford, Chevrolet, and Japanese manufacturers.

Competitive Set:

Competed with vehicles such as the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima.

Key Features:

Sleek aerodynamic styling, spacious interior, comfortable ride, availability of a powerful V6 engine option, modern (for the time) safety features, and a competitive price point.

Engine Options Overview:

Offered with a fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder or a more powerful 2.5L V6, providing choices for different driving preferences and needs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed, potentially available as PDF for digital sale

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block assembly, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems (belt/chain), lubrication systems, cooling systems, fuel systems (carburetor/injection), emissions controls, exhaust systems, engine specifications, torque values, clearances.

Engine Performance:

Diagnosis of engine performance issues, tuning, power output, emissions testing procedures, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, CV joints, differential, bearings, hubs, wheel alignment specifications, driveshaft (if applicable), U-joints, universal joints, universal joint replacement.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, power booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement, caliper repair.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses, fluid), steering column, tilt wheel mechanism, steering wheel removal, tie rods, power steering system diagnostics.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar), rear suspension (trailing arms, springs, shock absorbers, bushings), wheel bearing replacement, suspension alignment procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system (spark plugs, coils, distributorless ignition system), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, relays, grounding points, circuit protection.

Body And Trim:

Exterior body panels, doors, hoods, trunk lid, bumpers, fenders, glass replacement, seals, trim pieces, interior components, dashboard, seats, carpeting, headliner, body repair techniques, rust prevention, panel alignment.

Instrumentation And Gauges:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, instrument cluster removal/installation, bulb replacement, gauge diagnostics.

Lighting System:

Headlight aiming and adjustment, bulb types and replacement for all exterior and interior lights, turn signals, brake lights, hazard lights, fog lights (if equipped).

Body Control Modules:

Diagnosis and potential reset procedures for body control modules that manage various accessories and comfort features.

Safety Restraint System:

Airbag system components, diagnostic procedures for airbag warning lights, pretensioner operation, seat belt maintenance and replacement.

Exhaust System Components:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors, exhaust manifold repair, gasket replacement.

Transmission Mechanical:

Manual transmission removal/installation, internal components (gears, synchros, bearings), clutch system, shifter linkages, gear ratios, fluid specifications, repair procedures.

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic transmission removal/installation, torque converter, valve body, internal seals and gaskets, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, fluid specifications, service procedures, overhaul instructions.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, service ports), heating system (heater core, blower motor, controls), climate control diagnostics, cabin air filter replacement, system charging and evacuation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), tire rotations, battery maintenance, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, common symptom diagnosis, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II if applicable), intermittent issue diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for all major component replacements, adjustments, and overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications and procedures for reassembly.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Diagnosis of electrical faults, engine performance issues, transmission problems, ABS faults, HVAC malfunctions, using test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, scan tools).

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components, including power distribution, grounds, and signal paths.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Tire pressure specifications, wheel torque specifications, lug nut tightening sequence, tire repair procedures, mounting and balancing instructions, wheel bearing replacement.

Seat Removal Installation:

Procedures for removing and reinstalling front and rear seats, including seat belt anchor points.

Door Lock And Window Mechanisms:

Repair and adjustment of power and manual door locks, window regulators, power window motors, and door handle mechanisms.

Diagnostic Charts:

Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts to pinpoint the root cause of problems, organized by symptom.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications for all repair procedures.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Basic hand tools, torque wrenches, specialized brake tools, multimeter, diagnostic scan tool (OBD-I/OBD-II compatible if applicable for the model year).

Unit Specifications:

Includes imperial and metric units for all measurements, specifications, and capacities.

Manual Purpose:

Designed for dealership technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, providing in-depth information not found in owner's manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If digital, typically searchable PDF with high-resolution images and diagrams.

Print Quality:

If printed, expect high-quality paper with clear text and diagrams suitable for workshop use.

Binding Type:

If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and lay-flat readability.

Paper Type:

If printed, usually a durable, matte finish paper to reduce glare in workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

2.4L (148 cu in) DOHC Inline-4 (Chrysler World Engine)

Engine Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm

Engine Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine Displacement:

2.5L (152 cu in) SOHC V6 (Chrysler EGE/6G73)

Engine Horsepower:

160 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-pack arrangements.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (Chrysler A604/40TE)

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag NV3500 - less common in Cirrus, more in Sebring/Stratus twins)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic, overdrive.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+3 (MS-9602) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 190.5 inches (4839 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.8 inches (1798 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.0 inches (2743 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1451-1542 kg) depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - for 1997 model year.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available.

Passive Safety:

Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, side-impact door beams, collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronically controlled.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era. Primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No factory integrated Bluetooth or advanced navigation in 1997.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic or synthetic blend oil). Otherwise, 3,750 miles or 3 months.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, change every 30,000-50,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.

Engine Coolant Change:

Initial change at 100,000 miles or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles or 3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

2.4L I4: 60,000 miles. 2.5L V6: 100,000 miles (platinum tipped).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for all temperatures), SAE 10W-30 acceptable in warmer climates.

Engine Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent HOAT coolant (Orange).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Chrysler Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3.

Common Issues:

Transmission internal failures (especially on early models), evaporator core leaks (leading to AC system failure), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil cooler line leaks, front suspension component wear (strut mounts, ball joints), minor electrical gremlins, ABS sensor failures.

Timing Belt Service:

The 2.5L V6 engine uses a timing belt which requires replacement at specified intervals (typically 70,000-90,000 miles) to prevent catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler has a long history in the automotive industry, known for innovation and introducing popular models that often defined segments. The Cirrus was part of Chrysler's revitalization efforts in the mid-1990s.

Model Introduction:

The Chrysler Cirrus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a successor to the Chrysler LeBaron sedan. It was part of the second generation of the JA platform.

Platform Sharing:

Shared its platform with the Dodge Stratus and Plymouth Breeze, all being derivatives of the LH platform. This allowed for economies of scale in production and development.

Production Years:

1995-2000

Manufacturing Plant:

Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Sterling Heights, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 Cirrus are not widely publicized, the platform and its V6 engine were generally well-regarded for their smooth operation and value proposition at launch. Chrysler as a brand was recognized for its aerodynamic designs during this period.