Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance guidance for the 1997 Dodge SX 2.0.
Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sport Coupe
Value Proposition:
Provides an inexpensive way to maintain vehicle operability, offering factory-level technical information, numerous illustrations, and detailed procedures without the cost of physical delivery.
Manual Features:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, enlarged insets, numbered table of contents, combined troubleshooting and wiring diagrams.
Print Flexibility:
Allows users to print the entire manual or only specific pages needed for a particular repair task, enhancing practicality and reducing waste.
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Chassis/Body
Electrical And Comfort:
Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Restraint System, Interior
Body And Interior:
Chassis/Body, Interior, Restraint System (Airbags, Seatbelts), Heater/Air Conditioner, Body Sealing, Doors, Windows, Exterior Trim.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link or independent), steering linkage, steering rack, power steering pump.
Fuel And Emission:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions system, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors.
Brakes:
Front disc brake assembly (calipers, pads, rotors), rear drum brake assembly (wheel cylinders, shoes, drums), parking brake system, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS components (if applicable).
Maintenance And Diagnostics:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Periodic Lubrication, Diagnostic Procedures
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of components, repair procedures for all major systems
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting for the electrical system, including component testing, circuit diagnosis, and comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Engine Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts), and reassembly. Includes torque specifications and clearances.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission disassembly, inspection of gears, bearings, seals, and clutches, along with reassembly instructions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Abundant photos, drawings, and detailed illustrations with enlarged insets to clearly depict procedures and components.
Diagnostic Tools:
Guidance on using common diagnostic tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the OBD-II system.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clear wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults and installing accessories.
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline 4-Cylinder (likely based on Mitsubishi 4G63 platform, common for this era of shared platforms)
Estimated Horsepower:
Approximately 130-135 HP (typical for a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine of this era)
Estimated Torque:
Approximately 125-130 lb-ft (typical for a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine of this era)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) System (likely), EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) System.
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System (likely distributorless ignition system - DIS)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations likely varied by trim.
Dashboard Controls:
Climate controls (HVAC), audio system controls, instrument cluster (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights).
Cruise Control:
Optional feature, controlled via steering column stalk.
Anti Lock Braking System Operation:
If equipped with ABS, the manual details its operation, sensors, hydraulic control unit, and troubleshooting procedures.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant port, typically located under the dashboard, facilitating engine diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (manual will specify).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Refer to manual for exact interval and type.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Manual: Typically 50,000-100,000 miles. Automatic: Typically 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API Service SJ or higher (refer to manual for specific viscosity and specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, typically a green coolant. Manual will specify the required concentration and type (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system requirements (refer to manual).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific power steering fluid (refer to manual).
Common Problems:
Given its platform sharing with the Eclipse, potential common issues may include exhaust manifold leaks, premature wear of suspension components, electrical connector corrosion, and occasional ignition system issues. The manual will provide troubleshooting for these and more.
Cooling System Considerations:
Potential for radiator leaks or hose deterioration over time. The manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Dodge Brand Focus:
Dodge historically offered a range of vehicles from performance-oriented muscle cars to practical family vehicles. The SX 2.0 represented an effort in the compact sport coupe segment.
Platform Sharing:
The Dodge SX 2.0 was a badge-engineered variant of the third-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995-1999). This collaboration allowed Chrysler to fill a gap in its product line.
Market Reception:
While the Dodge SX 2.0 shared its underpinnings with a popular platform, its market penetration was limited due to its short production run and a competitive compact coupe market.
Production Years:
The Dodge SX 2.0 was produced for a limited period, primarily for the 1997 model year in North America, before being discontinued. It was a short-lived but notable entry in the segment.
