Positioning:
The Chrysler LeBaron was positioned as a stylish and affordable personal luxury car, competing with models from Ford (Taurus/Tempo), Chevrolet (Cavalier/Corsica), and import brands like Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, particularly in its convertible and coupe forms.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Corsica, Chevrolet Cavalier, Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, Pontiac Grand Am, and import sedans/coupes such as Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Distinctive Elements:
Distinctive 'K-car' based styling, available in coupe, convertible, and sedan variants. Convertible versions were particularly popular. Known for its comfortable ride and value proposition.
Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Engine Variants Covered:
All engine types for the specified years
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels for the specified years
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical factory service manuals for this era range from 1500-3000+ pages, but this is a PDF download, so exact count isn't specified, implies comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed repair procedures for all engines, including disassembly, inspection, overhaul, and reassembly. Covers cylinder heads, blocks, pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, and cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control systems, exhaust systems, engine diagnostics, and performance tuning.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul of manual transmissions, clutch system, and related components.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul of automatic transmissions, torque converters, and electronic controls.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), parking brake, ABS system diagnostics and repair.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (independent trailing arm or torsion bar depending on model year/configuration), steering system (rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator), lighting system, instruments and gauges, power accessories, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant handling, component replacement), heating system, ventilation, and climate control diagnostics.
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim removal and installation, chassis repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant specifications and procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common problems across all major systems.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components, including engine parts, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical modules, and body parts.
Overhaul And Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, full-color (implied by 'pictures & Wiring diagrams') electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine 2.5L Mpi:
2.5L Inline-4, Multi-Point Fuel Injection. Power output typically around 100-108 hp, torque around 135-145 lb-ft. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency for its time.
Engine 3.0L Mpi:
3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72), Multi-Point Fuel Injection. Power output typically around 140-150 hp, torque around 160-170 lb-ft. Offered smoother power delivery and more acceleration.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 100 hp (2.5L I4) to 150 hp (3.0L V6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 135 lb-ft (2.5L I4) to 170 lb-ft (3.0L V6)
Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for this model/era can vary. Generally, vehicles from this period offered basic safety features. Check specific recalls or safety reports for detailed analysis.
Braking:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional ABS on higher trims/later models.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard on many Chrysler models in the early 1990s. Passenger airbag was optional or standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, typically with shoulder belts for front occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Convertible models featured reinforced A-pillars and often roll bars integrated into the windshield frame, with varying levels of effectiveness.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change fluid and filter every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions have less frequent fluid change recommendations.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Timing Belt:
For the 2.5L engine, timing belt replacement is critical, usually around 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Failure can cause severe engine damage. The 3.0L V6 uses a timing belt as well, with similar interval recommendations.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 or ATF+4 (later equivalent), or Dexron-III compatible fluid. Consult manual for precise specification.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant recommended.
Electrical:
Common issues include failing power window regulators, door lock actuators, and intermittent issues with dashboard illumination and warning lights due to aging wiring or faulty modules.
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, and intake manifold gasket leaks can occur on both engines. The 2.5L Turbo (if equipped) can have turbocharger issues.
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions can develop internal wear leading to slipping or harsh shifting. Torque converter issues can also arise.
Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts are common wear items. Power steering pump leaks or noisy operation can also occur.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic leaks in the convertible top system, worn seals, and malfunctioning motors can affect convertible operation.
