🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Cirrus

Year:

1996

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size sedan, part of Chrysler's platform sharing strategy

Target Audience:

Owners, mechanics, parts suppliers, restoration enthusiasts seeking specific part information for the 1996 Dodge Cirrus.

Competitors 1996:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda Millenia.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides definitive manufacturer part numbers and detailed visual breakdowns, crucial for accurate part sourcing and replacement. Essential for DIY repairs and professional diagnostics.

Manual Utility:

Enables precise identification of even small or obscure components, minimizing errors in parts ordering and installation.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Parts catalog with exploded diagrams for all vehicle components

Secondary Coverage:

Manufacturer part numbers, component identification, assembly views

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific catalog edition, typically several hundred pages for a complete parts catalog.

Type:

Parts Manual / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF for modern sales), with potential for print-on-demand

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine components, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission components, driveline components

Chassis:

Suspension components (front and rear), steering system components, brake system components, wheel and tire components

Electrical:

Wiring harnesses, lighting components, electrical control units, sensors, starter, alternator

Body And Interior:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, dashboard components, HVAC components

Part Identification:

Identification of every single part with its unique manufacturer part number.

Assembly Disassembly:

Exploded diagrams illustrating the order and relationship of parts for assembly and disassembly.

Part Ordering:

Facilitates accurate ordering of replacement parts by providing precise part numbers.

Depth:

Component-level detail, focusing on exact part identification and relationships rather than repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Typically delivered as a searchable PDF, allowing for easy navigation and part number lookups. "Enlarge views" capability is a key feature for precision.

Quality Description:

Professional quality, implying high-resolution diagrams and clear text for accurate part identification and visualization.

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital format). If printed, would typically be a robust binding suitable for shop use.

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format). If printed, would typically be durable, possibly glossy paper for diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, SOHC V6

Engine Code:

Likely the 2.5L (152 cu in) Chrysler A engines, specifically the 2.5L V6 (often referred to as the 'EGA' or '6G73' in Mitsubishi relation).

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (152 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

Typically around 83.0 mm x 76.0 mm (3.27 in x 2.99 in) for this engine family.

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.9:1 to 9.1:1

Horsepower:

Approximately 160-165 hp @ 5600-6000 RPM

Torque:

Approximately 155-160 lb-ft @ 4400-4800 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

ECU Type:

Chrysler's SBEC (Single Board Engine Controller) or a similar system for the era.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

Likely the Chrysler 42LE automatic transmission.

Optional Transmission:

No manual transmission option was typically available for the Cirrus in this generation.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled overdrive, torque converter lock-up.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 3)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for a dry fill, less for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 192.1 inches (4879 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approximately 38.7 inches (983 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approximately 37.4 inches (950 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approximately 42.4 inches (1077 mm)

Rear Legroom:

Approximately 36.9 inches (937 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 15.5 cubic feet (0.44 cubic meters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3200-3300 lbs (1450-1500 kg), depending on equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4300 lbs (1950 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Not designed for significant towing; generally limited to trailer brakes or very light loads if at all.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Likely 4 stars (out of 5) based on general vehicle safety of the era. Specific ratings for 1996 may vary or not be readily available.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Likely 4 stars (out of 5) based on general vehicle safety of the era. Specific ratings for 1996 may vary or not be readily available.

ABS:

Available or standard on higher trims (Anti-lock Braking System).

Traction Control:

Less common for the base model, potentially available on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners.

Side Impact Beams:

Reinforced door beams for side impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

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

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with A/C standard on most trims, optional automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Phone Integration:

No factory integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or as specified in a dedicated service manual.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API Service SG or SH

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar/Chrysler specific (e.g., pink or orange).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or Chrysler power steering fluid.

Common Problems:

Transmission issues (42LE can be prone to solenoid failures, harsh shifting), engine oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, window regulator failures, power steering pump leaks.

Corrosion Points:

Rust can affect wheel wells, rocker panels, and suspension components, especially in areas with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Chrysler Corporation's performance-oriented and sometimes flamboyant brand, with a history of robust vehicles.

Cirrus Lineage:

Part of the Chrysler JA platform, which also underpinned the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Sebring sedan. This platform was a successor to earlier Chrysler L-body and K-body vehicles.

Cirrus Generation:

First generation (1995-2000). The 1996 model year is part of this initial launch phase.

Manufacturing Plant:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

1995-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While the Cirrus itself may not have garnered specific major awards, the JA platform shared engineering principles with vehicles that were generally well-regarded for their ride and handling for the price point.