🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2000

Market Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Coupe

Chassis Code:

JA (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Stratus (2000) was positioned as a mainstream mid-size vehicle, competing against established models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus. It aimed to offer distinctive styling and a comfortable ride.

Strengths:

Potentially competitive pricing, stylish exterior design for its era, availability of V6 engines.

Weaknesses:

Perceived build quality and reliability issues compared to Japanese competitors, interior materials could be considered dated.

Design:

Second-generation Stratus introduced sleeker styling, with the coupe version offering a distinct fastback profile.

Powertrain Options:

Offered a range of inline-four and V6 engines, providing a balance of economy and performance.

User Base:

Appealed to buyers looking for an American-designed sedan or coupe with a more aggressive stance than some competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4 (including High Output versions), 2.7L DOHC V6

Transmission Coverage:

4-speed automatic transmission (42LE), 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag G360/NV1500)

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe

Trim Levels:

SE, ES, R/T

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), fuel system (injection, pumps, lines), ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (operation, overhaul, diagnosis), manual transmission (operation, overhaul, diagnosis), clutch system, drive axles, differential.

Chassis:

Suspension system (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system (power rack and pinion), braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc depending on trim), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays.

Body And Frame:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, body panel replacement, paint and corrosion protection.

HVAC And Emissions:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and repair, evaporative emissions control system, catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacements, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-II system, electrical system testing, component testing (sensors, actuators).

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, power steering pump replacement, alternator and starter motor replacement, fuel injector replacement.

Installation:

Component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat), accessory installation guidance, body panel alignment.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers from routine maintenance and minor repairs to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Yes, text-searchable

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (Engine Code: A828/EDZ)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 91.4 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.3:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

124 hp @ 5700 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

127 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Engine Code: ED3/EDZ - High Output)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2378 cc

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 99.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5900 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

163 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine 3:

2.7L DOHC V6 (Engine Code: EER)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2736 cc

Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Engine 3 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine 3 Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (for 2.0L and 2.4L), 89 Octane Unleaded recommended for 2.7L V6 for optimal performance

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag G360 or NV1500 dependent on build date/spec)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42LE)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (e.g., SAE 75W-90, consult manual for specific type and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

188.9 in (4800 mm)

Width Sedan:

70.7 in (1796 mm)

Height Sedan:

55.7 in (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.0 in (2718 mm)

Front Headroom Sedan:

38.5 in (978 mm)

Rear Legroom Sedan:

37.5 in (953 mm)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

15.1 cu ft (427 L)

Curb Weight Min:

3155 lbs (1431 kg) (2.0L SE Sedan)

Curb Weight Max:

3400 lbs (1542 kg) (2.7L ES Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

★★★★☆ (4-star)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

★★★★☆ (4-star)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some base trims

Traction Control:

Optional, especially on V6 models

Airbags Front:

Standard dual front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front side airbags (often part of an option package)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player, optional premium audio systems with amplifier and speaker upgrades.

Display:

Basic analog gauges, central climate and radio controls. No advanced touchscreen infotainment systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Optional feature.

OBD Ii:

Standard OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine fault code reading.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic oil, or 3,000 miles with conventional oil (consult manual for specific engine recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L/2.4L:

Every 60,000 miles (platinum-tipped plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement 2.7L V6:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual for precise guidance).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.0L/2.4L; 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 2.7L V6

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems Powertrain:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.7L V6 models), timing belt wear (on 2.0L SOHC), automatic transmission internal wear and solenoid issues.

Common Problems Chassis Electrical:

Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, power door lock actuator issues, intermittent dashboard warning lights, ABS sensor failures.

Common Problems Suspension Brakes:

Worn control arm bushings, premature brake pad and rotor wear, noisy suspension components.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from performance cars to family sedans. The Stratus fits within the brand's broader strategy of offering affordable and stylish American vehicles.

Stratus Generation 1:

The first generation Dodge Stratus (1995-1999) was part of Chrysler's successful LH platform, sharing it with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. It was known for its distinctive cab-forward design.

Stratus Generation 2:

The second generation (1999-2006) introduced a new styling direction, a distinct coupe version, and updated powertrains. The 2000 model year marks the beginning of this second generation, representing a significant refresh.

Assembly Location:

Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

Platform:

Chrysler JA platform (updated for second generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reception:

The Stratus received mixed reviews upon release. While praised for its styling by some, it was often criticized for interior quality and reliability concerns compared to key competitors in the mid-size segment.