🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus Convertible

Trim Level:

JX

Product Name:

Dodge Stratus Convertible JX 1995-2000 Service Repair Manual

Generation Code:

JA (First Generation)

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Convertible / Personal Luxury Coupe

Target Audience:

Individuals seeking a stylish, comfortable, and relatively affordable convertible for cruising and everyday use.

Key Competitors:

Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Pontiac Firebird Convertible, Toyota Camry Solara Convertible (later model), Honda Accord Coupe (non-convertible competitor for styling).

Convertible Top Operation:

Available with a power-operated soft top for convenience.

Styling:

Sleek, aerodynamic design characteristic of late 90s Chrysler/Dodge styling, often featuring a prominent grille and smooth lines.

Interior Appointments:

Comfortable seating, generally well-equipped for its class, with a focus on driver and passenger comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belts/chains, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (MPI), emission control systems.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) operation, sensor diagnostics, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transaxle (if applicable), clutch system, shift linkage, internal components, service procedures.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transaxle (likely 41TE/42LE), torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, electronic controls, service and overhaul procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, drive axles, CV joints, differential, transaxle mounting.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, springs, shock absorbers/struts, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, power steering pump, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (common for this era), brake system hydraulic components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), parking brake system, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, specifications.

Body And Chassis:

Unibody construction, body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism, frame components, corrosion protection.

Interior:

Dashboard, seating, interior trim, seat belts, airbags (SRS), climate control system, audio system, power windows, power locks, convertible top controls.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harness schematics, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience features.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant types and capacities, troubleshooting.

Convertible Top:

Hydraulic and electrical systems for convertible top operation, seals, latches, troubleshooting convertible top issues.

Routine Maintenance:

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

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service, complete engine rebuilds.

Transmission Repair:

Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, manual transaxle repair.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement, rack and pinion repair.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, wheel cylinder replacement, brake line repair, master cylinder replacement, ABS component replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, sensor testing, component testing, ECM diagnostics.

Bodywork And Interior Repair:

Panel replacement, door adjustment, convertible top repair, interior trim replacement, seat belt servicing.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms and issues across all major systems.

Convertible Top Adjustment And Repair:

Detailed steps for diagnosing and repairing issues with the power or manual convertible top.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and routine service to in-depth diagnostic procedures and complete component overhauls and rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including component testing, circuit analysis, and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable with OBD-II.

Repair Accuracy:

Factory-level repair procedures, torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick keyword-based navigation.

Print Readability:

Optimized for printing, with clear diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EDZ

Engine Displacement 1:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 4-Cylinder (DOHC, 16-valve)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 150-155 hp @ 5900 rpm (varies slightly by year and specific tune)

Torque 1:

Approx. 160-165 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (varies slightly)

Engine Code 2:

ENR

Engine Displacement 2:

2.5 Liters (2499 cc)

Engine Configuration 2:

Naturally Aspirated V6 (SOHC, 24-valve)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 160-165 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 175-180 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

ECM Type:

Chrysler's proprietary engine control modules (e.g., NGC - Next Generation Controller or earlier variants)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 41TE / 42LE)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (less common, primarily with the 2.4L engine)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting programs.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification recommended by manufacturer for those years, typically ATF+3 initially)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 - 8.5 quarts (dry fill), check manual for specific capacity and level checking procedure.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 193.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 54.0 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.7 inches

Seating Capacity:

4 Passengers

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.5 - 13.0 cubic feet (with top up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Likely 3-star or 4-star (based on typical ratings for vehicles of this era, specific year data needed for exact rating)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Likely 3-star or 4-star

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Optional or Standard depending on year and trim.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, front seat pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Display Technology:

Basic analog gauges and LCD displays for odometer, trip meter, and system warnings.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

OBD Interface:

OBD-II compliant from 1996 onwards, allowing for diagnostic scan tool communication.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil used).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium may last longer than standard copper plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe duty schedule. Filter change usually recommended with fluid change.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type (e.g., conventional green vs. HOAT or OAT).

Engine Oil Specification:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification, may vary slightly for V6 vs. 4-cylinder).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-7170 or MS-9769 specifications).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (or specific Mopar power steering fluid).

Engine Issues:

Head gasket failures (particularly on early 2.7L V6 engines, though less common on the Stratus's 2.5L V6 and 2.4L 4-cyl), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan seals.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures, torque converter issues, clutch pack wear, leading to harsh shifting or no engagement.

Suspension Issues:

Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings; strut mount failure.

Electrical Issues:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, interior light failures, intermittent electrical gremlins related to aging wiring harnesses or grounds.

Convertible Top Issues:

Hydraulic cylinder leaks or failures, motor burnout, seal degradation, canvas wear or tears, electrical switch failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from muscle cars to family sedans and trucks.

Platform:

Built on Chrysler's JA platform, shared with the Dodge Stratus sedan and Plymouth Breeze sedan. The convertible version was a distinct variant.

Design Era:

Represents Chrysler's move towards more aerodynamic and modern styling in the mid-to-late 1990s, under design leadership that influenced many contemporary Chrysler products.

Production Period:

1995-2000 for the Stratus Convertible.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards for the Stratus Convertible are not widely publicized, vehicles of this era were subject to ongoing safety evaluations by organizations like IIHS and NHTSA, which drove design improvements.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Reviews from the period often cited its stylish design and comfortable ride, though reliability could be mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the powertrain and convertible top mechanism.