🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth

Model:

Stratus, Cirrus, Breeze

Model Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Chassis Codes:

JA (Stratus/Cirrus), JX (Breeze)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A comprehensive service solution for owners and independent repair shops working on the shared platform vehicles of Dodge, Chrysler, and Plymouth from 1995-2000. It serves as an essential tool for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing these vehicles.

Competitive Analysis:

This manual directly competes with official dealer service manuals and other aftermarket repair guides. Its strength lies in its comprehensive coverage of multiple related models (Stratus, Cirrus, Breeze) within a specific production window, offering a centralized resource for a diverse customer base.

Key Features:

Factory-level technical data, step-by-step repair procedures, detailed diagrams and schematics, troubleshooting guides, maintenance schedules, and coverage for a wide range of vehicle systems. Focus on customer satisfaction and support.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Page Count:

Thousands of pages (estimated based on comprehensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, potentially with ISO files for programs)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine lubrication system, Engine control system, Engine cooling system, Exhaust system, Fuel system (including Fuel Injection), Clutch system, Automatic transaxle, Manual transaxle, Front axle, Rear axle, Front suspension, Rear suspension, Road wheels & tyres, Brake system, Parking brake system, Brake control system, Power steering system, Steering system, Seat belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Body, Lock & security system, Glasses, Window system, Roof, Exterior & Interior, Instrument panel, Seats, Air conditioning system, Electrical system (including wiring diagrams, starting & charging system, lighting system, driver information system, wiper, washer & horn, body control system, LAN system, audio visual, navigation & telephone system, power supply)

Procedures Included:

General maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine overhaul, Transmission repair (manual and automatic), Brake system diagnosis and repair, Wiring harness repair, Electrical system diagnostics, Suspension component replacement, Steering system service, Climate control system service, Fuel system servicing, Emission control system maintenance, Restraint system inspection, Body panel repair, Interior component service, Driveline and axle service, Periodic lubrication, Tire and wheel service, Diagnostic procedures, Component testing, Removal and installation procedures, Torque specifications, Fluid specifications, Filter replacement

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork procedures. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (primarily), potentially ISO files for software

Print Quality:

Printable at home, implies good resolution for diagrams and text

Binding Type:

Digital Download (User printable and can be bound)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

2.0L I4 (SOHC), 2.4L I4 (DOHC - "High Output"), 2.5L V6 (SOHC)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 122 hp (2.0L) to 170 hp (2.5L V6)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (common on 2.0L and some 2.4L engines)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (common on 2.5L V6 and available on 4-cylinder models)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) platform, transaxle design integrating transmission and differential.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.7 inches

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3,000 - 3,400 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating Driver:

4/5 Stars (1996-2000 models)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (Optional/Standard on higher trims), Traction Control (Limited availability)

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, Seat belts with pretensioners, Side impact door beams, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, speaker systems ranging from 4 to 7 speakers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional ABS.

Connectivity Options:

Limited to basic audio system connectivity, no integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration for these model years.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service classification.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity and API rating.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Maintenance Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on 2.7L V6, though not primary in this manual's years), oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan, radiator leaks, AC system leaks, power window regulator failures, suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), transmission solenoid issues, intermittent electrical gremlins.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Part of Chrysler Corporation's portfolio, these vehicles shared a common platform and engineering, representing the mid-size sedan offerings from Dodge, Chrysler, and Plymouth during the late 1990s.

Model Evolution:

The Stratus, Cirrus, and Breeze were introduced as successors to previous Chrysler Corporation mid-size models. They underwent minor styling and feature updates throughout their production run, with the platform evolving from its initial introduction.

Production Period:

1995-2006 (Stratus/Cirrus platform continued longer, but manual covers 1995-2000 specifically)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognitions:

While specific awards for these models are less prominent compared to later vehicles, they were generally considered competent mid-size sedans of their era, often receiving average to good reviews for comfort and value in automotive publications of the time.