🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Plymouth Model: Acclaim Year: 1989 Chassis Code: XJ 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Sedan (also available as Hatchback/Wagon variants of the contemporary Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron). Purpose: A reliable and affordable family car, often a value-oriented alternative in its segment. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Celebrity, Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, Buick Century, Pontiac 6000, Mercury Topaz. Key Features Design Platform: Chrysler's J-body platform, shared with Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron, featuring front-wheel drive. Manual Utility: Provides factory-level repair and maintenance data, empowering owners and technicians with essential knowledge for keeping the vehicle in optimal condition. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Coverage: 1989 Plymouth Acclaim Engine Coverage: All 1989 Acclaim engine variants Transmission Coverage: All 1989 Acclaim transmission variants Page Count Estimated Page Count: Detailed content; page count not explicitly stated but assumed comprehensive based on description. Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM). Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive axles, differentials. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, power assist, parking brake). Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, horn, power windows, power locks, wipers, blower motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams. Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, exterior trim, bumpers. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: General troubleshooting procedures, specific fault diagnosis for various systems. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments, tune-ups. Disassembly Assembly: Step-by-step procedures for component removal and installation. Repair Rebuild: Detailed instructions for repairing or rebuilding major vehicle components. Cleaning: Specific cleaning instructions for various parts and systems. Torque Specifications: Crucial torque values for fasteners across all systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering professional technician level with data suitable for advanced DIY mechanics. Includes fundamentals to complex repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Printable: Full Printable Zoom Capability: Zoom IN/OUT functionality available within PDF reader Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (No physical binding) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital format) Delivery Delivery Method: Instant Download Requirements Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 2.5L (153 cu in) Turbocharged I4 (VIN G) Engine Displacement: 2499 cc Horsepower Rating: Approx. 104 hp @ 4000 rpm (for naturally aspirated 2.5L) / Approx. 150 hp (for Turbocharged 2.5L) Torque Rating: Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (for naturally aspirated 2.5L) / Approx. 173 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (for Turbocharged 2.5L) Secondary Engine Engine Code: 3.0L (181 cu in) V6 (VIN K) Engine Displacement: 2972 cc Horsepower Rating: Approx. 141 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Rating: Approx. 171 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Throttle Body Injection (TBI) depending on engine and trim. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Performance 0 60 Mph: Varies by engine and transmission, typically 9-12 seconds. Top Speed: Approx. 105-115 mph. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (for 2.5L engines) Optional Type: 3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A-604 Ultradrive FWD for V6 and Turbo 2.5L, or A-413 FWD for base 2.5L) Features Automatic Features: Electronic control (Ultradrive) on some models for improved efficiency and performance. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 179.1 inches Width: Approx. 67.5 inches Height: Approx. 53.5 inches Wheelbase: Approx. 103.7 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2800-3000 lbs, depending on engine and equipment. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: Not specifically rated for 1989 by modern standards, but likely to be below current benchmarks due to era. Active Features Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims or with specific engine options. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag not standard for 1989 model year on most trims. Passenger airbag generally not available. Seat Belts: Front lap and shoulder belts, rear lap belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound system available on some trims. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, enhancing braking control during emergency stops. Connectivity Instrument Cluster: Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various system faults. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations. Air Filter Replacement: Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles for conventional plugs, or 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, consult manual for specifics on fluid type...
Compact/Mid-size Sedan (also available as Hatchback/Wagon variants of the contemporary Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron).
Purpose:
A reliable and affordable family car, often a value-oriented alternative in its segment.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Tempo, Chevrolet Celebrity, Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, Buick Century, Pontiac 6000, Mercury Topaz.
Key Features
Design Platform:
Chrysler's J-body platform, shared with Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron, featuring front-wheel drive.
Manual Utility:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance data, empowering owners and technicians with essential knowledge for keeping the vehicle in optimal condition.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Vehicle Coverage:
1989 Plymouth Acclaim
Engine Coverage:
All 1989 Acclaim engine variants
Transmission Coverage:
All 1989 Acclaim transmission variants
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed content; page count not explicitly stated but assumed comprehensive based on description.
Manual Type
Type:
Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Throttle Body Injection (TBI) depending on engine and trim.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Performance
0 60 Mph:
Varies by engine and transmission, typically 9-12 seconds.
Top Speed:
Approx. 105-115 mph.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (for 2.5L engines)
Optional
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A-604 Ultradrive FWD for V6 and Turbo 2.5L, or A-413 FWD for base 2.5L)
Features
Automatic Features:
Electronic control (Ultradrive) on some models for improved efficiency and performance.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 179.1 inches
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches
Height:
Approx. 53.5 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.7 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs, depending on engine and equipment.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not specifically rated for 1989 by modern standards, but likely to be below current benchmarks due to era.
Active Features
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims or with specific engine options.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag not standard for 1989 model year on most trims. Passenger airbag generally not available.
Seat Belts:
Front lap and shoulder belts, rear lap belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound system available on some trims.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option, enhancing braking control during emergency stops.
Connectivity
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various system faults.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles for conventional plugs, or 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, consult manual for specifics on fluid type and filter replacement.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification, consult manual for correct type, e.g., Dexron II/III compatibility may be noted).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent ATF+3.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Engine:
Head gasket leaks on 2.5L engines, premature wear on turbocharger components (if equipped), intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission:
Ultradrive transmission (A-604) can be prone to electronic control issues or torque converter problems if not maintained.
Electrical:
Faulty radiator fan relays, power window motor failures, intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Suspension Steering:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts due to age and mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Plymouth Legacy:
Plymouth was a marque of Chrysler Corporation, known for offering value-oriented vehicles, often with a focus on affordability and practicality.
Model Evolution
Generation:
First Generation (1989-1994).
Platform Sharing:
Introduced as a new model for 1989, it was based on the same J-body platform as the Chrysler LeBaron and Dodge Spirit, marking a significant shift in Chrysler's compact car strategy.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Belvidere, Illinois plant).
Production Years:
1989-1994
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 1989 Plymouth Acclaim are not widely documented, it represented Chrysler's effort to modernize its compact car offerings and compete in a challenging market segment.