Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Coupe, aimed at value-conscious buyers seeking sporty styling.
Competitors 2004:
Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ford Focus Coupe, Hyundai Tiburon.
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic coupe design shared with the Mitsubishi Eclipse platform.
Powertrain Options:
Availability of an economical 4-cylinder and a more potent V6 engine.
Value Proposition:
Offered a stylish coupe at a competitive price point within its segment.
Manual Scope:
Features, controls, maintenance schedules, DIY service, towing, safety
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 250-350 pages (typical for a 2004 model owner's manual)
Format:
PDF (Electronic Version)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission operation.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheel and tire information.
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument panel, gauges, warning indicators, power accessories, fuses and relays.
Comfort Convenience:
HVAC system, interior controls, seats, door locks, windows, mirrors, audio system basics.
Safety Security:
Airbag system operation, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, anti-theft system.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guidance.
Diy Service:
Information on limited 'do-it-yourself' activities, likely focused on user-serviceable items.
Towing:
Specific instructions and considerations for towing the vehicle or towing with the vehicle.
Emergency Procedures:
Information on dealing with flat tires, jump-starting, and basic roadside troubleshooting.
Depth:
Owner-level operational and basic maintenance information. Does not cover advanced diagnostics or component-level repair procedures typically found in service manuals.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.4 Liters (148 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder (I4)
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 147 hp @ 5800 RPM
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 156 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.7 Liters (165 cubic inches)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6 Cylinder
Engine 2 Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 199 hp @ 6400 RPM
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 195 lb-ft @ 4200 RPM
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Economy Est:
Varies by engine and transmission; expect ~22-26 MPG city / ~30-35 MPG highway for 4-cyl, ~18-22 MPG city / ~26-30 MPG highway for V6.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for 2004 model, specific rating depends on testing protocols of the era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable or Marginal (depending on specific configuration and testing)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, especially with V6.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags available on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for Iridium/Platinum plugs (check specific type in manual).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2-3 years/30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend recommended (refer to manual for exact API rating).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue in color.
Engine Oil Sludge:
The 2.7L V6 is known to be susceptible to oil sludge if maintenance is neglected, leading to potential internal engine damage. Regular oil changes are critical.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of transmission solenoid issues or premature wear, especially in higher-mileage vehicles.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings and tie rod ends can lead to premature tire wear and steering looseness.
Dodge Brand:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, often emphasizing performance and value.
Stratus Coupe Platform:
The Stratus Coupe was part of the Chrysler J platform, a joint venture with Mitsubishi. It shared its underpinnings with the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder.
Generation Details:
This 2004 model represents the latter part of the first generation of the Dodge Stratus Coupe (introduced in 2001).
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in Normal, Illinois, USA.
Production Years:
2001-2005
Awards And Accolades:
While specific awards for the 2004 Stratus Coupe are not widely publicized, its platform shared with the Mitsubishi Eclipse was generally well-received for its styling and performance for the price.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation can vary; it's advisable to consult specific historical consumer reports data for detailed insights.
