Market Segment:
Compact Car Segment
Brand Strategy:
Dodge's attempt to offer a stylish and performance-oriented compact vehicle, leveraging Mitsubishi's engineering.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, sporty intentions, front-wheel drive platform.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Mitsubishi Galant platform, offering robust engineering and technology.
Performance Orientation:
Available with a powerful 4G63 DOHC engine, appealing to enthusiasts.
Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Market Segments:
North America (USA, Canada)
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, emission control systems, automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch system, drive axles, transfer case (if applicable).
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, parking brake, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, audio system, HVAC controls, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, lighting (external), weatherstripping.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, fault code identification and clearing (OBD-I), symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually every component on the vehicle.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced OBD-I diagnostics, pinpoint tests for electrical circuits.
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams and vacuum schematics.
Engine Type 1:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Bore X Stroke 1:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
8.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower 1:
135-145 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, depending on trim/market)
Torque 1:
125-135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Engine Type 2:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 8-valve
Displacement 2:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Horsepower 2:
95-100 hp (approximate)
Torque 2:
100-110 lb-ft (approximate)
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Distributor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.3 gallons (58 Liters) (typical)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III ATF (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Length:
Approx. 174 inches (4420 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1365 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600-2900 lbs (1180-1315 kg), depending on configuration
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Limited data available for this specific model; generally rated for its class at the time. Refer to specific NHTSA records if available.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Disc; Rear: Drum (standard), Disc (optional on some trims).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on higher trims or later models.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear lap belts (typical for the era).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag optional or standard on later models/higher trims.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims. Basic speaker configuration.
Cruise Control:
Optional on most trims.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC system with fan speed and temperature controls. Optional automatic climate control on select models.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily basic power accessories and available power windows/locks.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months (typical recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; consult manual for platinum plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for 4G63 engine: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, permanent antifreeze (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified).
Common Issues Engine:
Timing belt failure on 4G63 if not replaced, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, head gasket issues (less common than other domestic counterparts of the era).
Common Issues Electrical:
Failing alternator, starter motor issues, aging wiring harness connections, intermittent dashboard lights.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts leading to clunking noises and poor alignment.
Common Issues Corrosion:
Rust prone areas, especially wheel wells, rocker panels, and the underbody, depending on climate and maintenance history.
Dodge History:
Chrysler Corporation's performance and sporty division, known for muscle cars and robust trucks. In this era, strategically partnered with Mitsubishi.
Eagle Brand Introduction:
Eagle was a brand created by Chrysler in 1987 to sell badge-engineered Mitsubishi vehicles, aiming to compete in various market segments.
2000Gtx Development:
The Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance competitor, rebadged from the Mitsubishi Galant (E33A chassis). Offered a blend of Mitsubishi engineering with Dodge styling cues.
Production Years:
1989-1992 (in North America as the Eagle 2000GTX). The Mitsubishi Galant had a longer production run.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation)
Industry Recognition:
The Mitsubishi Galant platform upon which it was based received positive reviews for its ride quality, handling, and powertrain in automotive press of the era.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Check historical Consumer Reports archives for specific model ratings. Generally, Mitsubishi products of this era were considered reliable but with some electrical quirks.
Epa Fuel Economy:
Refer to EPA FuelEconomy.gov for specific year/model ratings. Typically in the range of 20-25 MPG city / 25-30 MPG highway.
