Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform (Chrysler JA) with badge engineering across Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth brands
Design Philosophy:
Focus on modern styling and passenger comfort for its era
Powertrain:
Engine, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Intake Manifold, Transaxle, Differential, Driveline, Clutch
Chassis:
Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Tires and Wheels, Frame and Bumpers
Electrical & Electronics:
Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel and Systems, Audio Systems, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control, Turn Signals, Lamps, Restraint System (Airbags/Seatbelts), Electrically Heated Systems, Power Distribution Systems, Power Door Locks, Vehicle Theft Security System, Immobilizer System, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Wiring Diagrams
Body & HVAC:
Body (general), Heating and Air Conditioning
Maintenance:
Lubrication and Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete dis-assembly and re-assembly instructions, Component replacement, System diagnosis and repair, Troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures, detailed specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, electrical schematics, component testing
Engine Options:
2.0L I4 (SOHC), 2.4L I4 (DOHC - likely standard on higher trims or performance variants), 2.5L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G73 SOHC)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 132 hp (2.0L) to 170 hp (2.5L V6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 130 lb-ft (2.0L) to 167 lb-ft (2.5L V6)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
2.0L Sohc I4:
RPO Code: ECH
2.4L DOHc I4:
RPO Code: EDZ
2.5L Sohc V6:
RPO Code: EHF (Mitsubishi)
Transmission Type:
Typically a 5-speed manual transmission (MTX) or 4-speed automatic transaxle (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transaxle (standard on V6 models and higher trims)
FWD Layout:
Front-wheel drive
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Automatic Transaxle Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters)
Length:
Approximately 193.7 inches
Width:
Approximately 70.8 inches
Height:
Approximately 56.5 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 107.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100-3400 lbs (depending on engine and equipment)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 stars (as per contemporary NHTSA ratings for similar vehicles)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 stars (as per contemporary NHTSA ratings for similar vehicles)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player options. Upgraded Infinity sound systems were also available.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional vehicle speed control (cruise control) system
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry system
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.5L V6 Mitsubishi engine, usually around 60,000-100,000 miles (critical maintenance item)
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for ambient temperature viscosity recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Problems:
Some owners reported issues with early transmission failures or rough shifting in certain automatic transmissions, particularly the 41TE/42LE units. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Engine Performance:
2.4L DOHC engine is generally reliable, but spark plug replacement and ignition system maintenance are important. The Mitsubishi V6 is robust but requires proper maintenance.
Suspension Wear:
Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts, especially with higher mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical issues related to sensors, switches, or body control modules can occur.
Chrysler Group Context:
Part of the Chrysler Corporation's re-entry into the mid-size sedan market with a modern platform.
First Generation Launch:
JA platform introduced for the 1993 model year as the Dodge Intrepid, followed by the Chrysler Concorde, LHS, and Eagle Vision. The Cirrus/Stratus/Breeze models based on the STLA (LH) platform (distinct from JA but often discussed together in manuals of this era) were also part of this generation of Chrysler's styling direction.
Manufacturing Locations:
Various North American assembly plants (Stellantis North America, formerly Chrysler Group LLC)
