Chrysler actually can make good cars, as long as you properly maintain it like you would any car. When it comes to longevity, I think cars made by Chrysler like Dodge last longer and are more durable then other manufacturers. I have a 2002 Dodge Stratus and its still going incredibly strong. I have managed 40MPG highway on it. Most of the problems associated to Chrysler stem from poor vehicle maintenence. One thing I highly suggest is not getting work done at the dealership. Go to a local shop you trust. Also using quality products in your vehicle helps alot.
I think its good to remember, a good brand gasket costs only a buck more then a generic brand one. When it comes to manufacturing a car, they probably used a generic one considering how many gaskets they got. Now when replacing just 1 gasket, paying the extra dollar will help the longevity of the vehicle.
As far as the manual goes. There isn't anything that will help you in it when you are on the side of the road. A "How-to guide" to simple vehicle maintenence will help more then the manual. The manual is there to look up part sizes and numbers, the fusebox info, and how to operate your cup holder. I would rather have a DVD that has a PDF I can download off the website incase I lose the DVD. I would also like to have a vehicle DVD player. This should come standard if they take out the manual.