🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan (often referred to as a 'large compact' or entry-level mid-size)

Key Competitors 1997:

Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze (Chrysler JA platform)

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ (typical for a full workshop manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electronics

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Gapping Specifications, Tolerances

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic adjustments to major component overhaul)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely Yes (if a professionally scanned and OCR'd manual)

Print Recommendation:

Printable on standard home/office printers

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

2.0L Inline-4 SOHC (Mitsubishi 4G63 variant)

Displacement 1:

1997 cc (121.9 cu in)

Horsepower 1:

114 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 1:

128 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel System 1:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Type 2:

2.4L Inline-4 DOHC (Chrysler EDZ)

Displacement 2:

2351 cc (143.5 cu in)

Horsepower 2:

150 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System 2:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Notes:

The 2.4L EDZ engine was known for its decent power for the class, but could be prone to head gasket issues if overheated.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler A604/41TE 'Ultradrive')

Transmission Type 2:

5-Speed Manual (Rare option, primarily with the 2.0L engine)

Transmission Notes:

The A604 automatic transmission was a Chrysler-designed electronically controlled unit, generally reliable but could exhibit harsh shifting if not properly maintained. Fluid type is ATF+4 or equivalent (refer to manual for specific Mopar spec).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.2 inches (4780 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

55.4 inches (1407 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 98.5 cu ft (2790 L)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.7 cu ft (444 L)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3050 lbs (1383 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3250 lbs (1474 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:

4 Stars (1997 Model Year)

NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:

4 Stars (1997 Model Year)

ABS:

Available (Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims)

Traction Control:

Not commonly available for 1997

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags (Standard)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available (Optional on some trims)

Connectivity Options:

Limited to basic power accessories. No integrated Bluetooth or advanced telematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months (synthetic recommended for longer intervals), consult manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (critical for A604/41TE transmission life), consult manual for specific interval and fluid type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, consult manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not Applicable (2.0L uses a timing chain, 2.4L uses a timing belt; consult manual for 2.4L interval, typically 60,000-90,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature, API certified)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter (2.0L), Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter (2.4L)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid (refer to manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Engine 2 4L Edz Issue:

Head gasket failures, particularly if the cooling system is not maintained, leading to overheating.

Transmission A604 Issue:

Harsh shifting, slipping, or transmission control module (TCM) issues can occur with age and mileage. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Suspension Wear:

Front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings, tie rod ends) can experience wear due to road conditions.

Power Window Motors:

Known to fail over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Focus:

Historically known for performance and ruggedness, though the Stratus represented a shift towards mainstream family sedans.

Stratus Generation 1:

This is the first generation of the Dodge Stratus, introduced for the 1995 model year.

Production Period:

1995-2000 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The Stratus was generally considered a competent but unexciting entry in the mid-size sedan market. It often lagged behind key Japanese competitors in refinement and perceived quality.

Consumer Reports Rating Era:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era often placed the Stratus in the average to below-average category for reliability and owner satisfaction compared to its rivals.