🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2002

Product Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Mid-size sedan targeting a broad consumer base, competing with models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus. The 2002 model year represents a significant mid-cycle refresh for the second-generation Stratus.

Target Audience:

Owners of the 2002 Dodge Stratus seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as independent repair shops and automotive technicians.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered a blend of comfort, styling, and reasonable pricing. The Stratus's key differentiators often included its European-influenced styling (as a sibling to the Chrysler Cirrus/Stratus and Plymouth Breeze) and optional V6 engines. However, it faced stiff competition from more established Japanese rivals known for reliability and refined driving dynamics.

Key Features:

The 2002 Stratus received updated styling, improved interior materials, and revised powertrain options. It was available in various trim levels, often including SE and SXT, offering different levels of equipment and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive repair procedures for all systems

Page Count:

Not specified (typically 1000+ pages for a complete factory manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download (No shipping costs)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Compass/mini-trip computer, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission/Transaxle, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing, valve train

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control systems, engine diagnostics

Transmission Manual:

Transmission removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly (for automatic transmission 42LE)

Driveline:

Front axle, drive shafts, CV joints, differential (transaxle)

Brakes System:

Front and rear brake systems, disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS components, parking brake

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel bearings

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, exterior trim

Body Interior:

Interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, carpeting, console

HVAC System:

Heating system, air conditioning system, refrigerant, blower motor, controls, climate control module

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers

Restraint System:

Airbag system, seatbelt systems, SRS module

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine controls, HVAC, and safety systems.

Procedures Included:

Diagnostic procedures, repair instructions, component replacement, troubleshooting, maintenance schedules, technical specifications

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, guided by symptoms and fault codes (OBD-II).

Maintenance Schedule:

Detailed recommended maintenance schedule for various mileage and time intervals, covering fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.

Component Replacement:

Illustrated procedures for removing, installing, and adjusting virtually every component and system on the vehicle.

Technical Depth:

Includes torque specifications, tightening sequences, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and wiring harness information critical for accurate repairs.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, power accessories, instrument cluster, sensors

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching, enhancing ease of locating specific information.

Print Quality:

Digital, requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat). Clarity depends on original source and digital conversion quality.

Printable:

Digital PDF is printable, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Delivery)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Delivery)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder (GEMA)

Horsepower Primary:

Approx. 150 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque Primary:

Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Optional Engine:

2.7L DOHC 24-Valve V6

Horsepower Optional:

Approx. 200 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Optional:

Approx. 195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Codes:

2.4L GEMA (EDZ), 2.7L EER (9)

Engine 2 4L:

EDZ (2.4L DOHC 16V)

Engine 2 7L:

EER (2.7L DOHC 24V V6)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

Optional Transmission:

Not Available (Automatic was standard across most configurations)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic. The 42LE is a robust, but older design, often shared with other Chrysler products of the era.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.0 inches (2743 mm)

Length:

193.7 inches (4919 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight Start:

Approx. 3250 lbs (1474 kg) for 4-cylinder models

Curb Weight End:

Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg) for V6 models

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not Specified (Varies by configuration)

Payload Capacity:

Not Specified (Typically around 900-1100 lbs for this class of vehicle)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for 2002 model year vehicles tested)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for 2002 model year vehicles tested)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Acceptable (for 2002 model year vehicles tested)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Acceptable (for 2002 model year vehicles tested)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for 2002 model year vehicles tested)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims)

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (optional), front seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems with cassette tape and/or CD changer available. Uconnect hands-free communication system was not widely available on this model year.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance technology compared to modern vehicles. Primarily focused on basic safety features like ABS and airbags.

Connectivity Features:

Standard power windows, power locks, power mirrors. Cruise control standard on most models. Keyless entry system available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for exact mileage.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-5 years. Consult manual for specific interval.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 API certified. Consult manual for specific viscosity and certifications.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Type MS-7170 (orange) or equivalent HOAT coolant. Consult manual for exact type and mixture.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602). Consult manual for exact type.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid. Consult manual for specific type.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid. Consult manual for exact type.

Transfer Case Fluid:

Not Applicable (Front-wheel drive vehicle)

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (for transaxle differential). Consult manual for exact type and capacity.

Known Issues:

Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), power steering leaks, issues with the automatic transmission solenoid pack, occasional electrical gremlins, catalytic converter failure, and issues with the HVAC blend door actuators are commonly reported for this generation of Stratus.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, as part of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks and muscle cars to minivans and sedans. The Stratus was part of Chrysler's strategy to offer competitively priced, stylish, and comfortable vehicles in the sedan market.

Model Evolution:

The Dodge Stratus was introduced in 1995 as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Dynasty. The second generation (1996-2000, with a facelift for 2001) was built on the Chrysler JA platform, sharing components with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. The 2001 facelift brought updated styling, interior, and powertrain options, continuing into 2002. The Stratus was eventually replaced by the Dodge Avenger for the 2008 model year.

Production Years:

1995-2006 (Stratus nameplate, with variations like Stratus R/T and Sebring Sedan/Coupe)

Assembly Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Stratus, as part of the Chrysler product lineup, received mixed reviews over its lifespan. While often praised for styling and value, it generally didn't achieve top-tier ratings for reliability or driving dynamics compared to its Japanese competitors. Specific awards for the 2002 model year are not prominently documented.