Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile utility and passenger capacity.
Key Competitors 2006:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Trailblazer.
Distinguishing Features:
Body-on-frame construction (early models), spacious interior, available third-row seating, strong value proposition.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive DIY repair capabilities, reducing reliance on professional mechanics and saving significant costs.
Engine:
Detailed troubleshooting, repair, overhaul, and diagnostics for all engine variants.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, fuel injection, ignition system.
Transmission Manual:
Repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting of the manual transmission.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting of the automatic transmission, including valve body and torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive system components, differentials, axles, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, hydraulic pump, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box locations, battery, alternator, starter.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb replacement, aiming.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, A/C compressor, heater core, blower motor.
Body Interior:
Door mechanisms, seats, dashboard, trim panels, upholstery repair.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, glass replacement, body panel alignment.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection and repair procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Preventive Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and component inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, including torque specifications.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul instructions.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, live data interpretation, and specific diagnostic tests for various systems.
Alignment Procedures:
Wheel alignment angles and adjustment procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Information:
Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Enables in-depth troubleshooting using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data, and component testing.
Special Tools:
Identifies and specifies the use of special tools required for specific repair procedures.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE derived)
AWD Option:
Available with electronically controlled all-wheel drive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
SPII (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.1 Liters (7.5 US Quarts)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 Liters (2.1 US Quarts)
Length:
4675 mm (184.1 inches)
Width:
1890 mm (74.4 inches)
Height:
1745 mm (68.7 inches)
Wheelbase:
2710 mm (106.7 inches)
Front Track:
1620 mm (63.8 inches)
Rear Track:
1610 mm (63.4 inches)
Seating Capacity:
5-7 Passengers (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 135 liters (4.7 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 755 liters (26.7 cu ft)
Curb Weight Min:
1820 kg (4012 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 2500 kg (5511 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with appropriate equipment.
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
225/70R16 or 245/65R17
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 139.7 mm (5 x 5.5 inches)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Rating:
Good (Frontal Offset, Side Impact - varies by specific test).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags (may vary by trim).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) (Long-life iridium plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial: 100,000 miles (160,000 km); Subsequent: Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, OAT type (Orange)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF DEXRON III or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater hoses due to aging materials.
Common Issue 2:
Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings) affecting ride quality and alignment.
Common Issue 3:
Rear differential noise or seal leaks, particularly on AWD models.
Common Issue 4:
Automatic transmission occasional harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often related to fluid degradation or solenoid issues.
Common Issue 5:
ABS sensor failures leading to ABS warning lights and system malfunction.