Engine:
Service, repair, troubleshooting, tune-up procedures, component descriptions, timing, compression, cooling system integration, lubrication system maintenance, fuel injection/fuel system diagnostics and repair, emission control system servicing, engine control system (ECU) diagnostics and component testing.
Transmission:
Service, repair, troubleshooting, overhaul procedures, clutch service (if applicable), torque converter operation, hydraulic controls, shift linkage adjustment, transmission fluid service and specifications.
Brakes:
Service, repair, troubleshooting of front and rear brake systems (disc and drum configurations), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, hydraulic component testing (master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers), parking brake system maintenance.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, electrical component testing, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, fuse and relay identification and testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, wheel bearing service.
Steering:
Power steering system service (pump, rack and pinion or steering box), fluid specifications, steering linkage inspection and repair, wheel alignment procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator service, thermostat replacement, water pump repair, coolant specifications and capacity, fan operation, heater core service.
Chassis Body:
Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, chassis lubrication, rust prevention, frame inspection, exhaust system service.
Restraint System:
Seat belt operation and maintenance, airbag system diagnostics and precautions (if equipped).
Axle:
Front wheel drive axle shaft inspection, replacement, and CV joint service.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication schedules, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, identification of causes and solutions.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and specialized scan tools for electrical system diagnosis, tracing wiring faults, testing sensors and actuators.
Engine Rebuild:
Engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), machining specifications, assembly procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Calibration Adjustments:
Idle speed adjustments, ignition timing settings, throttle position sensor (TPS) calibration, steering angle sensor calibration (if applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (recommended based on era and engine type).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (varies by spark plug type and engine).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.5L Mitsubishi engine: approximately every 60,000 miles. For 3.0L Mitsubishi V6: approximately every 60,000 miles. Critical maintenance item.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SG/CD, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on ambient temperature)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for automatic), Manual transmission fluid GL-4 75W-90 (for manual).
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on 2.5L Mitsubishi engine), transmission control module (TCM) issues on Ultradrive automatic, cooling system leaks, electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold cracks, interior plastic degradation due to age.
