Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, individuals requiring substantial passenger and cargo capacity.
Key Competitors:
Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Plymouth Voyager, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey
Vehicle Appeal:
Spacious interior, flexible seating, family-oriented features, comfortable ride.
Manual Value:
Empowers owners and technicians with the official factory information for accurate repairs and maintenance.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Emissions, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed repair procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting for all engine variants.
Transmission:
Service and repair of automatic transmissions, including fluid service, clutch pack replacement, and valve body diagnosis.
Brakes:
ABS diagnostics, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), power distribution.
HVAC:
Refrigerant handling, component testing (compressor, evaporator, condenser), system diagnostics, blower motor service.
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting trees.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and rebuilding.
Diagnostics:
Utilizing diagnostic tools, interpreting scan data, diagnosing electronic control module (ECM) faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Code:
3.3L V6 (EER)
Engine Description:
3.3 Liter OHV V6 (Pushrod) Engine
Displacement:
3.3 Liters (203 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
3.92 in x 3.09 in (99.5 mm x 78.5 mm)
Horsepower:
156-158 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies slightly by year/spec)
Torque:
185-190 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year/spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.0 Quarts (11.4 Liters) with automatic transmission cooler
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (Mopar)
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (2850 mm)
Length:
193.0 inches (4902 mm)
Width:
76.7 inches (1948 mm)
Height:
67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,100 - 4,300 lbs (1860 - 1950 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5,750 lbs (2608 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 20-30 cu ft (varies by configuration)
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Approx. 60-70 cu ft
Cargo Volume With 2Nd And 3Rd Row Removed:
Approx. 140-150 cu ft
NHTSA Front Impact Rating Driver:
Could vary by test year, generally considered adequate for the era. Consult specific year's NHTSA data if available.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating Passenger:
Could vary by test year, generally considered adequate for the era. Consult specific year's NHTSA data if available.
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, shoulder belt height adjusters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on these early models; seat belts are used for child seat restraint.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, and up to 6 speakers.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls with optional front and rear fan speeds and temperature control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Entertainment:
N/A (Not available on these model years).
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (Not available on these model years).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as recommended by service intervals for severe use.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or every 2-4 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs, check specific plug type.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 (Mopar) or equivalent.
Common Complaints:
Transmission issues (e.g., solenoid failure, torque converter shudder), alternator failure, water pump leaks, power door actuator failures, exhaust manifold cracks, rear strut mount wear.
Diagnostic Challenges:
Intermittent electrical faults, sometimes related to aging wiring harnesses or module failures.
Brand Focus:
Chrysler has a long history of innovation in automotive design and comfort, particularly noted for its early adoption and refinement of the minivan segment.
Generation:
Second Generation (NS Body Style)
Key Changes 1996:
Introduction of the NS platform, significant styling updates, improved aerodynamics, driver-side sliding door option (late 1996 models).
Key Changes 1997:
Refinements based on initial NS model feedback, optional driver-side sliding door becomes more widely available, potential minor feature updates.
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
1996-2000 (NS Platform)
