Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan, competing in a segment that valued practicality and affordability.
Key Competitors:
Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Design Philosophy:
The Stratus was part of Chrysler's LH platform family, sharing styling cues and engineering with larger vehicles like the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid, offering a distinctive cab-forward design.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money and understanding their vehicle better. Provides factory-level information for accurate diagnostics and repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, component replacement, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and repair, emissions controls.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable to specific models) repair, clutch system, gearshift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE) diagnosis, repair, fluid and filter service, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, CV axles, differential service.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, repair, disc and drum brake service, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, tie rods.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, horn, wipers.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant service, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, structural components.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) components, diagnosis, and safety precautions.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems, including guided troubleshooting flowcharts.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for nearly all vehicle parts.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling various sub-assemblies and components.
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning parts before reassembly and correct reinstallation methods.
Depth:
Designed for professional technicians but accessible to DIY mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge. Covers detailed specifications, diagnostic procedures, and complex repair sequences.
Engine 1:
2.0L SOHC Inline-4 (420A)
Engine 1 Hp:
132 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
124 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2:
2.5L SOHC V6 (163/170 hp, 167/177 lb-ft)
Engine Options:
Available with a 2.0L four-cylinder and a 2.5L V6 engine. Specific power outputs varied slightly by year and trim.
Acceleration:
0-60 mph typically in the 9-11 second range, depending on engine and transmission.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended).
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (often paired with the 2.0L engine).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE 'Ultradrive' often paired with the 2.5L V6).
Automatic Features:
Selectable Low gear, Overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specifications as per manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 quarts (dry fill).
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Mixed ratings across the model years. Some configurations received 4-star ratings for driver and passenger.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated for all configurations; performance varied.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often standard or optional.
Traction Control:
Traction control was available on some higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags were standard. Side airbags were generally not available during this generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Change fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage.
Coolant Flush:
Replace coolant every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as specified in the manual.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API certified (check manual for precise viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Mopar product.
Transmission Failures:
Some automatic transmissions (particularly the 41TE) were prone to premature wear and failure, often related to valve body issues or torque converter problems.
Engine Performance Issues:
The 2.0L 420A engine could experience issues with head gaskets or oil leaks. The 2.5L V6 was generally more reliable but could suffer from coolant leaks (intake manifold gaskets).
Suspension Wear:
Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts/shocks, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues like faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, or intermittent dashboard lights could occur.
HVAC System:
Evaporator core leaks, blower motor failures, and A/C system refrigerant leaks were not uncommon.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, as a brand within Chrysler, has a history of offering American muscle cars and practical family vehicles. The Stratus aimed to blend sporty styling with everyday usability.
Generation 1 Launch:
The first-generation Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Dodge Acclaim.
Platform Sharing:
Part of the Chrysler JA platform, shared with the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus, and also closely related to the longer wheelbase JR platform (Chrysler Sebring sedan/coupe, Dodge Stratus coupe).
Manufacturing Locations:
Stirling Avenue Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Model Run:
1995-2000 (for this generation).
