Market Segment:
Compact Sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, families, individuals seeking reliable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, practical interior, decent fuel economy, readily available parts.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform (JS) with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus, and Chrysler Sebring (coupe/convertible variants).
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), intake and exhaust systems, timing systems.
Engine Performance:
Engine tuning, diagnostic procedures, emissions control systems, component testing.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission removal/installation, clutch system, gearshift mechanism, internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission removal/installation, hydraulic system, torque converter, internal components, electronic controls, fluid service.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc brakes (front/rear), drum brakes (rear, if applicable), parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam, independent, if applicable), wheel bearings, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear/rack and pinion.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, structural repairs (limited).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor, controls.
Emissions Control:
Emission control systems, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EVAP system, EGR system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, use of diagnostic tools, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) codes.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and repair.
Rebuild Procedures:
Transmission rebuilds, engine component overhauls (pistons, rings, bearings).
Installation Procedures:
Component installation, accessory installation (limited).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced: includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Engine Code:
2.0L SOHC I4 (EJ3)
Displacement:
1996 cc (122 cu. in.)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm (3.44 in. x 3.27 in.)
Horsepower:
118 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
129 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Optional Engine:
2.4L DOHC I4 (from Stratus/Cirrus, rarer in Breeze)
Optional Engine Specs:
2.4L DOHC, 150 hp, 170 lb-ft torque (approx.)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific model year recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, check manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. Refer to manual for viscosity at extreme temperatures.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec) or equivalent.
Common Problem 1:
Automatic transmission issues (harsh shifting, slipping) due to the A604 transaxle.
Common Problem 2:
Head gasket failures (especially on 2.4L engine, less common on 2.0L).
Common Problem 3:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
Common Problem 4:
Power window regulators and motors failing.
Common Problem 5:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Problem 6:
HVAC system issues (blower motor, blend door actuators).
Plymouth Brand Context:
Plymouth was Chrysler's value-oriented brand, often offering rebadged Dodge or Chrysler models.
Model Introduction:
The Plymouth Breeze was introduced for the 1996 model year as a replacement for the Plymouth Sundance.
Platform Development:
Based on Chrysler's 'JA' platform, later evolved into the 'JS' platform shared with the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus.
Production Period:
1996 - 2000
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA (Sterling Heights, Michigan, for some related models)
Model End:
Discontinued after the 2000 model year as Chrysler phased out the Plymouth brand.
