The Chrysler ESD is a 2,429 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2004. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and sequential fuel injection, delivering responsive performance for compact sedans. An aluminum block and head provide a favorable power-to-weight ratio.
Fitted to models such as the Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Stratus, and Plymouth Breeze, the ESD engine was engineered for spirited, economical driving in the compact segment. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and catalytic converters, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering update addressed potential oil consumption in early production units, as noted in Chrysler Service Bulletin 09‑010‑03. This was linked to initial piston ring design tolerances. A revised ring package was implemented in engines produced after January 2003 to mitigate this concern.
Chrysler
Production years 2001–2004 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-3456).
The Chrysler ESD is a 2,429 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans (2001-2004). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver responsive, linear power for agile driving. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,429 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 101.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162 hp (121 kW) | |
| Torque | 165 lb-ft (224 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (MS-6395 specification) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The DOHC design provides responsive, high-RPM power ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to timing belt replacement intervals (typically 100,000 miles) to prevent catastrophic failure. The use of 5W-30 oil (MS-6395) is critical for protecting the hydraulic lifters and variable valve timing system. Early engines (pre-January 2003) should have piston rings inspected if excessive oil consumption is noted, per Chrysler Service Bulletin 09-010-03. The aluminum block is lightweight but requires careful handling during repairs to avoid warping.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification (Chrysler Service Manual 09-011-03).
Emissions: Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2001-2004 ESD engines (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model years; no factory high-output variant exists.
Chrysler Technical Service Manuals: Docs 09-011-03, 09-012-03, 09-010-03
EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (A-3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chrysler ESD was used across Chrysler's JA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code 'ESD' stamped on a machined pad on the front of the engine block, below the exhaust manifold (Chrysler Service Manual 09-011-03). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'N' for vehicles equipped with the 2.4L DOHC engine. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold with '2.4L' embossed on top and a prominent timing belt cover on the left side. Critical differentiation from the 2.4L SOHC (EDZ): The ESD has a visibly more complex cylinder head with dual camshafts and no rocker cover bolts on top. Service parts are generally consistent across all model years; however, pre-January 2003 engines require specific piston ring sets (Part No. 68077910AA) as per Service Bulletin 09-010-03.
The ESD's primary reliability consideration is potential oil consumption in early builds, with elevated incidence noted in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Chrysler internal data prompted a service bulletin for engines built before January 2003, while U.S. NHTSA data shows no significant safety recalls linked to the engine. The timing belt is a critical wear item; failure results in severe engine damage, making strict adherence to the replacement schedule paramount.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (2001-2004) and U.S. NHTSA recall data (2001-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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