🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Platform:

JA (Chrysler JA platform)

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan, targeting value-conscious buyers seeking a practical and reliable family car.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Appeal:

Spacious interior, comfortable ride, straightforward mechanicals, competitive pricing.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent repair shops with the in-depth knowledge required for effective maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on dealerships and lowering long-term ownership costs.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Manual Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical full service manuals are 500+ pages)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (AT) service, repair, and diagnosis.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle and CV joint service, differential.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS components (if equipped).

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body electrical components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical failures.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) retrieval and interpretation, component testing, wiring diagrams for troubleshooting.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text for easy keyword lookup.

Quality:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text. Designed for clarity and usability.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EDZ (2.0L SOHC I4)

Displacement 1:

1996 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower 1:

132 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 1:

132 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Code 2:

ESL (2.4L DOHC I4)

Displacement 2:

2429 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower 2:

150 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2:

163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 3:

EGX (2.5L SOHC V6)

Displacement 3:

2498 cc (2.5 Liters)

Horsepower 3:

164 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 3:

173 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Bore Stroke 2.0L:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm

Compression Ratio 2.0L:

9.3:1

Bore Stroke 2.4L:

87.5 mm x 97.1 mm

Compression Ratio 2.4L:

9.4:1

Bore Stroke 2.5L V6:

86.0 mm x 72.3 mm

Compression Ratio 2.5L V6:

9.3:1

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE/42LE/45RFE based)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (available on some base models with 2.0L engine)

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronically Controlled Automatic Transaxle (Select Shift)

Atf Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.0-8.0 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters) for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.7 inches (4768 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

56.3 inches (1430 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Front Headroom:

39.7 inches (1008 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.1 inches (1069 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.6 inches (955 mm)

Rear Legroom:

34.7 inches (881 mm)

Curb Weight 2.0L:

Approximately 3100 lbs (1406 kg)

Curb Weight 2.5L V6:

Approximately 3300 lbs (1497 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4200-4400 lbs (1905-2000 kg), depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely 4-star (Good) based on similar vehicles of the era, though specific 1997 ratings may vary.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Likely 4-star (Good) based on similar vehicles of the era.

IIHS Side Impact:

Data for 1997 may be limited, but generally mid-size sedans of this period varied significantly.

ABS:

Available as an option on most trims, standard on some higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configuration varies by trim level.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with A/C. Optional automatic climate control on some higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era. Primarily focused on basic car functions. No advanced infotainment or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs; consult manual for exact type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for the automatic transmission. Check manual for specific interval and conditions.

Engine Oil Type 2.0L 2.5L V6:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Engine Oil Type 2.4L:

SAE 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) meeting Chrysler MS-7170 specification. Typically a green coolant.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L 2.5L V6:

Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration.

Automatic Transmission:

Some transmissions may experience delayed shifting or harsh engagement, often related to fluid condition or solenoid issues. The 41TE/42LE family is generally robust but requires regular maintenance.

Cooling System:

Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, or water pump are common due to age. Overheating can be an issue if not addressed.

Suspension Components:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can cause poor handling, noise, and premature tire wear.

Power Window Regulators:

Plastic components in power window regulators can become brittle and break, leading to windows not operating correctly.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing practical, powerful, and performance-oriented vehicles, adapting to market trends with offerings like the Stratus.

First Generation Stratus:

The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit. It was part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' trio, alongside the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze, all built on the Chrysler JA platform.

1997 Model Year Changes:

The 1997 model year saw minor revisions, including potential refinements to trim levels and options. The core mechanicals and platform remained consistent with the initial launch.

Manufacturing Plant:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

1995-2000 (for the first generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward'S Auto:

The 2.5L V6 EGX engine was a Ward's 10 Best Engines winner for 1997, recognized for its smooth operation and class-leading power and torque among V6 engines in its segment.