Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, professional mechanics
Advantage:
Provides dealer-level technical information for a fraction of the cost, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance.
Manufacturer Equivalence:
Same comprehensive information provided to official Dodge dealerships.
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasis on accurate diagnosis and efficient repair procedures.
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (16V) I4 (Engine Codes: FOMOCO, Chrysler), 2.0L DOHC (16V) I4 (Engine Codes: Chrysler)
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (A520, A535), Automatic Transmission (30/31, 40/41)
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Components and Operation
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Independent Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System Components
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Fuse and Relay Locations, Lighting Systems, Power Accessories, Instrument Cluster, ECM/PCM Diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Pressure Regulator, Fuel Tank, Emissions Control System (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses, Fan Operation
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Oxygen Sensors
Climate Control:
HVAC System Components, Refrigerant Service, Blower Motor, Heater Core, A/C Compressor
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim Components, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation
Engine Repair:
Engine Disassembly and Reassembly, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement, Piston and Ring Replacement, Valve Adjustment (if applicable), Gasket Replacement
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Fluid Change, Clutch Replacement (Manual), Torque Converter Replacement (Automatic), Seal Replacement
Brake Service:
Brake Pad and Rotor/Drum Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Caliper and Wheel Cylinder Service
Suspension And Steering Service:
Strut/Shock Absorber Replacement, Ball Joint and Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump and Rack Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Electrical Faults, Component Testing, Wiring Repair, ECM/PCM Diagnosis
Body And Collision Repair:
Panel Replacement, Door and Window Regulator Repair, Dent Removal Techniques
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Problems, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and electrical diagnostics)
Diagrams:
Step-by-step illustrated instructions and detailed exploded view diagrams
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-I and OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation and troubleshooting
Engine 1 Type:
2.0L SOHC (16-Valve) Inline-4
Engine 1 Displacement:
1995 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm (approx.)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.3:1 (typical)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm (typical)
Engine 1 Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (typical)
Engine 2 Type:
2.0L DOHC (16-Valve) Inline-4 (Mitsubishi 4G63 based)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm (approx.)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
140 hp @ 6000 rpm (typical)
Engine 2 Torque:
133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (typical)
Engine 2 Special Variant:
Optional for ACR, ES, SLT trims; standard on R/T (tuned variants existed)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Transmission 1:
5-Speed Manual (A520/A535)
Transmission 2:
3-Speed Automatic (30/31)
Transmission 3:
4-Speed Automatic (40/41 - later models, less common)
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Actuated
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 (75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, check manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
70,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (SOHC engine) - CRITICAL INTERVAL.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (most common, check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change (approx.)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (typically blue or orange)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common valve cover gasket and rear main seal leaks.
Timing Belt Failure:
Catastrophic engine damage if belt breaks due to lack of timely replacement (SOHC engine).
Transmission Problems:
Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, leading to shifting issues. Manual clutch wear.
Electrical Gremlins:
Interior light issues, power window malfunctions, and intermittent gauge cluster problems can occur.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common, leading to poor handling and alignment issues.
