🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Body Style:

Sedan / Coupe

Drivetrain:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Market Segment:

Mid-size

Platform Code:

JA (Chrysler JA platform)

👋 Introduction

Segment Placement:

The 1997 Dodge Stratus was positioned as a mid-size sedan and coupe in the North American market, competing in a segment dominated by established players like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus. It aimed to offer a combination of style, comfort, and value.

Key Rivals:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant.

Platform Sharing:

Part of Chrysler's JA platform, which also underpinned the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze, sharing many core components and design elements.

Design Language:

Featured a cab-forward design philosophy characteristic of Chrysler vehicles of the era, offering a spacious interior for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive factory service and repair for 1997 Dodge Stratus, including Right-Hand Drive (RHD) and Left-Hand Drive (LHD) configurations.

Rwd Lhd Coverage:

Explicitly covers differences in components, wiring, and procedures for both Right-Hand Drive (RHD) and Left-Hand Drive (LHD) configurations, critical for international markets or specialized conversions.

Estimated Pages:

Likely over 1000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual).

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Zip/PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Intake Manifold, Clutch, Transaxle, Differential and Driveline, Suspension, Brakes, Steering.

Electrical Systems:

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, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Door Locks, Vehicle Theft Security System, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Wiring Diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Bumpers and Frame, Body, Tires and Wheels, Heating and Air Conditioning.

Emission Control:

Emission Control Systems are detailed, including components like the catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, along with diagnosis and repair procedures.

Maintenance Procedures:

Lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, adjustments.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul for all covered systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-to-cause analysis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable for the era), electrical schematics for fault finding.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extensive and detailed wiring diagrams are a critical component of this manual, essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical system faults. These are typically organized by system and harness.

Depth:

Factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and component-level repair.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

While basic tools are covered, advanced diagnostics may require specialized tools like OBD-II scanners, multimeters, and pressure gauges as detailed in the manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) within a ZIP archive. Designed for digital access and printing.

Digital Reproduction:

High-quality reproduction of original factory documentation, ensuring legibility of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Digital Access:

N/A (Digital format - no physical binding).

Digital Content:

N/A (Digital format - content is electronic).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Standard: 2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve); Optional: 2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve) 'High Output' (likely Chrysler's DOHC engine found in other variants).

2.0L I4 Hp:

Approximately 132 hp @ 6000 rpm (estimated, varies by specific engine code and market).

2.0L I4 Torque:

Approximately 125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (estimated).

2.4L I4 Hp:

Approximately 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (estimated for the DOHC variant).

2.4L I4 Torque:

Approximately 170 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (estimated for the DOHC variant).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

ECU Type:

Chrysler's proprietary engine control unit (ECU), likely using OBD-II diagnostic protocols.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5/100).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.5-7.0 quarts (6.2-6.6 liters) (estimated).

2.0L Engine Displacement:

1996 cc (Cubic Centimeters).

2.4L Engine Displacement:

2429 cc (Cubic Centimeters).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (Chrysler A604 / 41TE).

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (likely Getrag or Chrysler-developed).

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift points for optimal performance and economy. Could feature 'Power' and 'Economy' modes.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (Chrysler's Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 3).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.0-8.0 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters) (estimated for dry fill).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 108.7 inches (2761 mm).

Length:

Approximately 190.5 inches (4839 mm) for sedan.

Width:

Approximately 70.2 inches (1783 mm).

Height:

Approximately 55.9 inches (1420 mm) for sedan.

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 98-100 cubic feet (2770-2830 liters) (estimated for sedan).

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approximately 15.8 cubic feet (447 liters).

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,000 - 3,300 lbs (1360 - 1497 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4,100 - 4,300 lbs (1860 - 1950 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Not designed for significant towing; towing capacity is typically zero or very limited.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star (1997 model year, typical for this era's mid-size sedans).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star (1997 model year).

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels, potentially all four depending on trim level.

Airbags:

Standard driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with front pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

Rear seat LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system likely not standard, but manual will detail proper child restraint usage.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player was standard. Optional CD player available on some trims. Speaker configurations varied.

Cruise Control:

Vehicle Speed Control System (Cruise Control) was an available option on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic audio system and power accessory controls. No integrated Bluetooth or advanced navigation systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmission fluid (ATF+3) change. Manual transmission fluid change recommended at higher mileage (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by spark plug type; platinum-tipped plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles, while standard plugs may require replacement every 30,000 miles. Manual will specify.

Engine Oil Specification:

API certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on ambient temperature (refer to owner's manual or oil fill cap for exact spec).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler's approved Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Stratus Problems 1997:

Common issues for this generation can include transmission solenoid failure (especially in early 41TE transmissions), head gasket leaks, power steering leaks, minor electrical gremlins, and suspension component wear (e.g., ball joints, tie rod ends). The manual will provide specific troubleshooting steps.

Engine Air Filter:

Part numbers vary by manufacturer, but commonly found equivalents for the 2.0L or 2.4L engines include Fram CA7420, Purolator A34490, or Wix WA10160. Manual will confirm.

Engine Oil Filter:

Part numbers vary by manufacturer, but commonly found equivalents include Fram PH3614, Purolator L10010, or Wix 51515. Manual will confirm.

Standard Tire Size:

Commonly 205/55R16 or 215/60R15, depending on trim and wheel size. Manual will provide exact specifications and alternatives.

Wheel Pattern:

5 x 100mm (common for Chrysler vehicles of this era).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, as a marque of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to performance cars and family sedans. The Stratus was part of Chrysler's revitalization efforts in the mid-1990s.

Generation:

First generation (1995-2000). The 1997 model year represents the second year of production for the Stratus.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (Belvidere Assembly Plant was also used for this platform).

Production Period:

1995-2000.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1997 Stratus are not widely documented, Chrysler's JA platform cars were generally well-received for their styling and spaciousness at launch. The manual reflects the engineering and design standards of the time.