Market Segment:
Compact car, targeted at budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable and practical transportation, often with a focus on fuel economy.
Competitors:
Competed against models like Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Escort, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Nissan Sentra.
Distinguishing Features:
Rear-wheel drive (uncommon in its class for the era), sporty styling (for its segment), relatively spacious interior for its size, availability of performance-oriented engines.
Systems:
Engine, Clutch, Transmissions (Manual & Automatic), Cooling Systems, Fuel & Exhaust Systems, Ignition System, Electrical System, Brakes & Brake Assembly, Wheels & Tires, Steering System, Suspension System, Frame & Bodywork, Wiring Diagrams, HVAC, Audio Systems, Diagnostic Systems
Procedures:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Engine Repair & Rebuild, Clutch Service & Replacement, Transmission Overhaul & Repair, Brake System Diagnostics & Repair, Suspension & Steering Alignment & Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting & Repair, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Service, Fuel System Cleaning & Repair, Exhaust System Replacement, Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding & Troubleshooting
Depth:
Professional-level, comprehensive detail including diagnostic procedures, specifications, and repair instructions equivalent to factory service manuals.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all operating systems (Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, 11 and macOS) and various devices capable of reading PDF files.
Image Quality:
High-quality pictures and diagrams for clear visualization of procedures and components.
Binding:
Digital (No physical binding)
Paper Type:
Digital (Not applicable)
Engine 1 Type:
2.5L (153 cu in) Turbocharged 4-cylinder (Mitsubishi 4G54/Chrysler Turbo I)
Engine 1 Power:
Approximately 146-174 hp (depending on year and specific tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approximately 160-180 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tune)
Engine 2 Type:
2.5L (153 cu in) Naturally Aspirated 4-cylinder (Mitsubishi 4G54)
Engine 2 Power:
Approximately 104 hp
Engine 2 Torque:
Approximately 138 lb-ft
Engine 3 Type:
3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6
Engine 3 Power:
Approximately 141 hp
Engine 3 Torque:
Approximately 170 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all engines.
0 60 Mph Turbo:
Approximately 7.5-9.0 seconds (depending on transmission and specific model)
0 60 Mph V6:
Approximately 9.0-10.5 seconds
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (TorqueFlite A413 / A604 Ultradrive)
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive for all configurations. Ultradrive automatic featured electronically controlled shifting for improved efficiency and smoother operation.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 100.3 inches (2548 mm)
Length:
Approximately 174.1 inches (4422 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Height:
Approximately 53.0 inches (1346 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2700-3000 lbs (1225-1360 kg), varies by engine and trim.
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 14.5 cu ft (0.41 m³)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Likely 3 or 4 stars based on contemporary testing for vehicles of this era (specific ratings may vary by model year and testing methodology).
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Likely 3 or 4 stars based on contemporary testing for vehicles of this era.
Active Safety:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes, Power-assisted brakes, Power steering, Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on some later models.
Passive Safety:
Seat belts (manual front and rear), Energy-absorbing steering column, Side guard door beams, Padded interior surfaces.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Basic analog gauges and controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to available ABS on later models. No advanced electronic driver assistance systems like traction control or stability control were standard.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Basic car stereo connectivity via RCA outputs if aftermarket head unit installed.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter typically every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for precise intervals).
Timing Belt Interval:
If equipped with the Mitsubishi 4G54 engine, timing belt replacement recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green or clear), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+2 or ATF+3 (often specified as equivalent to Dexron II/III).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Common Wear Items:
Ignition system components (spark plugs, wires, distributor cap/rotor), CV joints (if front-wheel drive variants existed, though Spirit was primarily RWD), exhaust system components, radiator, water pump, and various suspension bushings due to age and mileage.
Turbo Specific Issues:
Turbocharger oil leaks or failure, intercooler clogs, boost leaks from vacuum hoses or intercooler piping.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, failing dashboard indicators, intermittent electrical faults due to aging wiring harnesses and connectors.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history dating back to 1914, known for performance-oriented vehicles and trucks.
Spirit Lineage:
The Dodge Spirit was part of Chrysler's 'K-car' platform lineage, sharing its basic structure with vehicles like the Plymouth Acclaim and Chrysler LeBaron. It represented a more performance-oriented variant within this family, often distinguished by its rear-wheel-drive setup and available turbocharged engine.
Production Period:
1989-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the Dodge Spirit are not widely publicized, it was part of Chrysler's lineup that aimed to offer value and performance in the compact segment. Its turbocharged variants were often praised for delivering accessible performance.
Consumer Reports Reputation:
Consumer Reports and similar publications of the era often cited reliability concerns with Chrysler products from this period, particularly with electronic components and the earlier Ultradrive transmissions. However, the Spirit's performance and handling for its class were sometimes noted positively.
