Market Position:
Compact family sedan positioned as an affordable and practical option within the Chrysler Corporation's diverse product line. Competed with vehicles like the Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Cavalier, and Honda Civic.
Competitive Analysis:
The Acclaim, along with its Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron sister cars, offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior for its class. Its front-wheel-drive platform and relatively straightforward engineering made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The availability of fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines was a key selling point.
Key Features:
Front-wheel drive, independent front suspension, torsion-bar front springs, independent rear suspension, optional ABS, fuel injection, aerodynamic styling (for its era), spacious interior, competitive pricing.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control, Chassis, Interior Components, Exterior Components, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for OE-derived software of this era)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (Web-based access)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical and electrical, powertrain control, transmission (automatic), braking system (including ABS if equipped), power steering, suspension (front and rear), exhaust system, fuel delivery and storage, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, climate control (HVAC), body electrical systems (lighting, wipers, windows, locks), body structure, safety systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting steps, calibration procedures, specifications for adjustments, repair procedures for all major systems, wiring harness repair, body panel replacement, interior trim service, HVAC system repair
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed schematics, torque specifications, clearances, and fault isolation trees.
Primary Engine:
2.5L (153 cu in) Inline-4 (4G54 Mitsubishi Astron Engine)
Horsepower:
100 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Torque:
135 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Bore X Stroke:
3.58 in x 3.78 in (91 mm x 96 mm)
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or SH)
Coolant Capacity:
7.1 US quarts (6.7 L)
Standard Transmission:
3-Speed Automatic (A604 Ultradrive)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (less common)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled overdrive, torque converter lock-up
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler MS-7176)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 L) (approximate, subject to converter drain)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not Rated (Data not readily available for this era and specific model)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not Rated (Data not readily available for this era and specific model)
Active Features:
Front-wheel drive, power-assisted brakes, optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features:
Energy-absorbing steering column, dual front airbags (driver and passenger, standard for 1992), three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts, side-impact protection beams
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional: premium sound system, CD player (rare).
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels initially, later models may have front ABS.
Connectivity Options:
N/A (No factory Bluetooth or USB ports)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (or as specified by oil type and driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Chrysler MS-5901 or equivalent (check manual for specific type)
Known Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.5L engines), timing belt wear and potential failure (critical maintenance item), AC system leaks, interior trim degradation, power window motor failures, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), occasional electrical gremlins related to body control modules or grounds.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (CRITICAL - failure can cause severe engine damage)
Spark Plug Part Number:
Champion RC12LYC or equivalent (verify with manual)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mopar MO-090 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH373, Wix 51515)
Brand Heritage:
Plymouth was an American automobile brand established by Walter Chrysler in 1928. Known for offering value-oriented vehicles, it competed in various market segments, from economy cars to muscle cars. By the early 1990s, Plymouth was being repositioned by Chrysler Corporation.
Model Evolution:
The Plymouth Acclaim was introduced for the 1989 model year, replacing the Plymouth Reliant. It was part of Chrysler's "K-car" evolution, built on the AA-body platform, which also spawned the Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron sedan. The design featured a more aerodynamic and rounded styling compared to its predecessors. For 1992, it received minor updates, including standard dual airbags.
Production Years:
1989-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Toluca, Mexico; Newark, Delaware, USA
