Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, enthusiasts seeking DIY repair capabilities.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mazda Protegé.
Key Features
Design:
Distinctive cab-forward design, spacious interior for its class, sporty handling (especially the ACR models).
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, surprisingly robust performance when optioned with larger engines or performance packages.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
North America
Page Count
Total Pages:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
All engine types, including SOHC and DOHC variants, internal components, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (3-speed and 4-speed automatic transaxle) systems, including operation, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, differential, and related components.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam axle, control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and associated components.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc brakes on some trims), hydraulic system, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, component replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, power antenna.
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or SH, or Certified for API Certified SG
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change (for 2.0L engines)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE/42LE family)
Type Alt:
3-Speed Automatic Transaxle (A500/A518 family - less common on 1999 models, more prevalent in earlier generations)
Features
Manual Fluid Type:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) - Refer to specific manual recommendations, often GL-4 specification.
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler's proprietary fluid, though earlier versions may have used ATF+3 or Dexron III equivalent. The manual will specify the exact type and change intervals for the 1999 model.)
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.7 US quarts (7.3 liters) for 4-speed automatic with converter (check dipstick for accurate level).
Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1179-1270 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate/vehicle data sticker
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1999 model)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1999 model)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Small LCD for odometer and trip meter.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system on most models.
Connectivity
Aux Input:
N/A (No factory auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions available).
Bluetooth:
N/A (No factory Bluetooth connectivity).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using recommended synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Severe service may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Platinum Plus spark plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles for conventional spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or every 4 years. Manual: Inspect as needed, change at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles) or if performance degrades.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for the initial change, then every 3 years or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) thereafter.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or Type MS-5747-D (Refer to manual for specific recommendation, often Chrysler's power steering fluid)
Known Issues
Engine:
Head gasket failures (especially on early SOHC engines), oil leaks from front crank seal, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failure, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission hard shifting or delayed engagement, potential for torque converter issues.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension creaks and rattles (worn bushings, ball joints), power steering pump whine or leaks.
Door lock actuator failure, interior trim rattles, AC system leaks (evaporator).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (at the time of manufacture)
Model Evolution
Generation:
First Generation (1995-1999)
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design inspired by sports cars, emphasizing interior space and aerodynamic efficiency.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
1995-1999 (for the first generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automobile Magazine All Stars:
Awarded Automobile Magazine All-Star in 1997 for its class, highlighting its value and driving dynamics.
Consumer Reports:
Received mixed reviews from Consumer Reports regarding reliability in its early years, but improved in later model years. Specific ratings for 1999 are available for consultation.
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