🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Platform:

Chrysler JA platform

Body Style:

4-door Sedan

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed information for maintenance and repair of the 1997 Dodge Stratus.

Competitors:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima

Design Philosophy:

Aims for comfortable transportation with a focus on affordability and practicality within the mid-size segment.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, in-depth technical data and repair procedures, enabling DIY repairs and saving money.

📋 Manual Details

Main Focus:

Service and Repair

Sections Listed:

Introduction, Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling System, Battery, Starter, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel and Systems, Audio Systems, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control System, Turn Signal and Flashers, Windshield Wipers and Washers, Lamps, Restraint System, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Door Locks, Vehicle Theft Security System, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Wiring Diagrams, Engine, Exhaust System and Intake Manifold, Bumpers and Frame, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Tires and Wheels, Body, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages, typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical:

Engine, Transmission (Transaxle), Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Driveline

Electrical:

Battery, Starter, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Horns, Instrument Panel, Audio Systems, Vehicle Speed Control, Turn Signals, Wipers/Washers, Restraint System, Heated Systems, Power Locks, Theft Security, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Systems

Body Chassis:

Bumpers and Frame, Body construction, Heating and Air Conditioning

Emissions:

Emission Control Systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacements, inspections.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for major components and systems.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic charts, symptom analysis for various systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Type:

Digital (PDF), implying no physical binding.

Type:

Not applicable (digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Option1:

2.0L DOHC I4 (Mitsubishi 4G63)

Displacement Option1:

1997 cc

Horsepower Option1:

Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Option1:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code Option2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Chrysler World Engine)

Displacement Option2:

2429 cc

Horsepower Option2:

Approx. 149 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Option2:

Approx. 168 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine Code Option3:

2.5L SOHC V6 (Chrysler EDB/EDZ)

Displacement Option3:

2499 cc

Horsepower Option3:

Approx. 164 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Option3:

Approx. 171 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Control Unit:

Engine Control Module (ECM)

🔧 Transmission

Type Option1:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (Chrysler 41TE/42LE)

Type Option2:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag G283 - less common)

Front Wheel Drive:

Standard

Automatic Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent spec)

Manual Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or similar)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.5 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.4 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically around 4200 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (optional rear discs)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, referred to as Vehicle Speed Control System.

Antilock Brakes:

Optional ABS system.

Connectivity Features:

Basic, with options for power accessories, but no integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity typical of modern vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Transmission Fluid:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmission fluid change.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for modern iridium/platinum plugs, or sooner for older designs.

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check specific engine for variations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (Chrysler specific or compatible)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problem 1:

Head gasket failures, especially on the 2.4L engine.

Common Problem 2:

Transmission shifting problems or failure (particularly the 41TE/42LE).

Common Problem 3:

Suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).

Common Problem 4:

Electrical issues, including sensor failures and power accessory malfunctions.

Common Problem 5:

Catalytic converter failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Dodge (Chrysler Corporation)

Introduction:

Introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim.

Generation 1:

1995-1997 (JA platform)

Redesign:

Received a minor facelift for 1997 with updated styling cues.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Ratings:

Varied reviews, often noted for comfort and value but sometimes criticized for powertrain refinement and build quality compared to Japanese competitors.