Purpose:
Family Hauler, Versatile Transport Vehicle
Key Competitors Era:
Dodge Grand Caravan/Voyager, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Venture/Montana
Manual Advantage:
Provides direct access to manufacturer-level service data for DIY mechanics and independent repair shops, enabling cost savings and proper vehicle upkeep.
Vehicle Value Proposition:
Offered a spacious and practical interior for its time, often at a competitive price point, with a focus on family utility.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Included Sections:
General Information, Specifications, Maintenance, Engine Electrical, Engine, Cooling System, Fuel and Emissions, Transaxle, Steering, Suspension, Brakes (including ABS), Body, HVAC, Body Electrical, Restraints
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File
File Requirements:
WinZip (for extraction)
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel Delivery and Emissions Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transaxle (Automatic)
Chassis:
Steering System, Suspension System (Front and Rear), Brake System (including ABS), Wheel and Tire Specifications
Body And Interior:
Body Construction, Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Electrical:
Body Electrical Systems, Engine Control Module (ECM) Wiring, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories
Maintenance:
Routine Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Adjustments, Diagnostic Procedures
Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based diagnostics, Fault code interpretation (where applicable), Step-by-step troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced repair and diagnostics, including detailed illustrations and specifications.
Engine Code Common:
G6CU (3.5L V6)
Engine Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3497 cc)
Engine Configuration:
V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 24 Valves
Horsepower Typical:
Approximately 195-200 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Typical:
Approximately 215-220 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommended:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000-90,000 miles
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A (Typically only automatic offered)
Transmission Control:
Electronically Controlled
Transmission Fluid Type:
SP III ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Refer to manual, typically 7-9 quarts for drain and fill.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
Refer to NHTSA data for specific model years; typically 4 out of 5 stars for this class of vehicle.
ABS:
Standard on most trims and model years (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims/later models
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual, typically iridium plugs every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic Blend/Full Synthetic (refer to manual for exact specification based on climate)
Engine Coolant Type:
Asian Red Long Life Coolant (or equivalent OAT/HOAT)
Common Wear Item:
Front struts and bushings, exhaust system components, power steering pump/hoses.
Engine Related:
Potential for coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets, occasional oil pressure sensor failures.
Transmission Related:
Some reports of transmission solenoid issues or torque converter shudder; regular fluid changes are critical.
Electrical Related:
Power window motors, HVAC blower motor resistors, interior light failures.
Importance Of Timing Belt:
The 3.5L V6 is an interference engine, meaning failure of the timing belt can cause severe internal engine damage. Replacement at recommended intervals is crucial.
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Introduction Year:
1997 (in Korea), 1998 (North America)
Platform:
Based on the Mitsubishi Space Wagon platform (joint venture)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Malaysia, possibly other locations under license.
Generation Span:
VQ (1999-2005 in North America, pre-facelift 1997-2001, facelift 2002-2005)
