Segment:
Full-size sedan, aimed at families and individuals seeking comfort, space, and a comfortable ride.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima.
Design:
Distinctive cab-forward design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride quality for its class.
Diy Savings:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs on labor compared to dealership or independent mechanic services.
Completeness:
Provides comprehensive information, mirroring official factory documentation for accuracy and thoroughness.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for 2.7L V6 (EER) and 3.2L V6 (EGV) engines, including timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, and lubrication systems.
Transmission:
In-depth coverage of the 42LE 4-speed automatic transaxle, including torque converter, valve body, internal components, electronic controls, and fluid service.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS operation, hydraulic components, parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, and steering column components.
Driveline:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, and differential components within the transaxle.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, and fuel pressure specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and oxygen sensors.
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), ignition system (spark plugs, coils, control modules), and wiring diagrams.
Lighting:
Headlamps, taillamps, interior lighting, bulb types, and troubleshooting.
Instrument Panel:
Gauges, warning lights, instrument cluster removal and installation, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Comfort And Convenience:
Air conditioning (A/C) system, heater core, blower motor, power windows, power locks, power seats, power mirrors, and chime/buzzer warning systems.
Safety Systems:
Passive restraint systems (airbags), seat belt operation, and vehicle theft/security systems.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, bumpers, doors, windows, interior trim, and basic frame information.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, belt replacement, and spark plug service.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, and component testing procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, easy-to-read wiring schematics for all electrical systems, allowing for precise troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics, component rebuilds, and electrical system troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid:
Check every 15,000 miles; change/flush every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual).
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically have a longer service life, often 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and interval).
Engine Oil:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for precise recommendation).
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Issues:
The 42LE transmission can sometimes exhibit delayed engagement or shifting problems, often related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.
Engine Oil Sludge:
Some 2.7L engines are prone to oil sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected. Regular maintenance as per the manual is crucial.
Suspension Wear:
Wear items like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are common maintenance items that the manual will cover for replacement.