Market Position:
The 1996 Chrysler LHS was positioned as a premium, full-size luxury sedan, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience within Chrysler's product lineup. It competed with other domestic and import luxury sedans of its era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors included vehicles like the Buick Park Avenue, Oldsmobile Aurora, Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Caprice, and import offerings such as the Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES, and lower-trim levels of European luxury sedans. The LHS was noted for its distinctive styling and V8 engine option.
Key Features:
Front-wheel drive, spacious interior, optional V8 engine, advanced (for the time) electronic features, and a focus on ride comfort.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service and repair information for the 1996 Chrysler LHS.
Page Count:
Online access, estimated equivalent to over 1000 pages of printed manual content based on typical factory service manual depth.
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Digital Software (Web Browser Accessible)
Access Period:
One (1) year of access included, with discounts available for additional years.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (Front-Wheel Drive), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc), ABS System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations), Body Control Modules, HVAC System, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Body and Chassis, Interior Components, Exterior Components, Maintenance Procedures.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, inspection, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuild procedures, wiring schematic interpretation, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and resolution.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed component specifications, tolerances, diagnostic charts, and step-by-step repair instructions.
Repair Types Covered:
Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complex component replacement and engine/transmission diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostic Tools Coverage:
Provides information relevant for using OBDI/OBDII scan tools (depending on specific model year implementation for emissions, but diagnostics will cover sensor data and codes).
File Format:
Proprietary web-based application accessed via internet browser.
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital Format - High-resolution graphics and schematics).
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format).
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format).
Compatibility:
Compatible with any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and a web browser.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A (Only automatic offered)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.0 quarts (8.5 liters) for a complete refill.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not rated or generally not available for this era's specific digital documentation.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, Traction Control (Optional/Later Models).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, side-impact door beams.
Infotainment System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard, optional CD player. Available premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control standard, optional traction control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were standard or available).
Climate Control System:
Manual air conditioning standard, optional automatic climate control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km) or as per manual recommendations, especially under severe use.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH rated).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler Long Life 5/100 Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF.
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 11.7 quarts (11.1 liters).
Common Issues:
Valve stem seal leakage (leading to oil consumption), intake manifold gasket leaks, PCV valve issues, ABS system sensor failures, power steering pump leaks, radiator and cooling fan failures, automatic transmission solenoid issues, headlight switch failures.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 51500, Purolator L30000, Mopar Filter P4579124.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 49773, Purolator A34075, Mopar Filter P52100382.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history in the American automotive market, known for innovation and a range of vehicles from compact cars to luxury sedans and minivans.
Model Evolution:
The 1996 LHS was part of Chrysler's LH platform, which debuted in 1993 with the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid. The LHS represented a more upscale and comfort-oriented variant, offering unique styling and a more luxurious interior.
Production Years:
1994-1997 (First Generation)
Production Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
Recognitions:
The LH platform vehicles, including the LHS, received generally positive reviews for their styling and comfort upon introduction. Specific awards for the 1996 LHS itself are not as widely documented as later models or major redesigns.
Ratings:
Consumer satisfaction ratings for this era of Chrysler vehicles varied, but the LHS was often praised for its spacious interior and smooth ride.