Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan, targeting value-conscious consumers and families.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Vehicle Platform:
Chrysler JA platform (shared with Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus).
Sales Appeal:
Affordable pricing, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, availability of both 4-cylinder and V6 engines.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, component diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging systems, fuel injection controls, emissions controls, sensor diagnostics.
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic transmission overhaul (e.g., 41TE/42LE), clutch packs, torque converter, valve body.
Transmission Electrical:
Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, solenoids, sensors.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics and repair, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, power steering system, wheel alignment procedures.
Chassis And Body:
Frame, body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, glass replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, audio system.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hanger replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, multimeter usage, specialized tool applications.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major vehicle systems.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major vehicle systems, including component identification and wire routing.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type Optional:
None (Manual transmission was not offered on the Stratus in 1995).
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent, check manual for precise specification for 1995 models, often Mopar ATF+3 was specified).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 - 7.5 quarts (6.2 - 7.1 liters) for refill, 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for overhaul.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 stars (1995 model year testing varies, but generally good for its era)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 stars (1995 model year testing varies)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
N/A (Test not performed on this model year by IIHS)
ABS:
Standard on all trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (4,800 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or as specified by the manual.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API Service SG or SH (check manual for specific viscosity and rating).
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Common Issue 1:
Automatic transmission issues (e.g., solenoid failures, torque converter problems, premature wear) particularly in earlier models.
Common Issue 2:
Head gasket failures on the 2.5L V6 engine, especially if overheating occurred.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension wear (e.g., ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings).
Common Issue 4:
Ignition coil pack failures leading to misfires.
Common Issue 5:
Interior component wear and tear, particularly the dashboard materials.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for performance and value-oriented vehicles.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and an addition to Chrysler's successful LH platform sedans.
Platform Sharing:
Part of Chrysler's 'cab-forward' design era, utilizing the JA platform which also underpinned the Plymouth Breeze and the higher-trim Chrysler Cirrus.
Production Years:
1995-2006 (First Generation: 1995-2000, Second Generation: 2001-2006)
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.