🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge, Chrysler

Model:

Stratus, Sebring, Cirrus

Year:

2003

Platform Code:

JR (for Stratus/Sebring/Cirrus)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan (for Stratus, Cirrus) and potentially coupe/convertible variants (for Sebring), competing in a crowded segment with strong offerings from Japanese and domestic manufacturers.

Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant.

Vehicle Attributes:

Offered in sedan and coupe body styles (Sebring), known for comfortable ride, relatively spacious interior for its class, and a choice of efficient 4-cylinder and smoother V6 engines.

📋 Manual Details

Included Manuals:

2003 JR Service Manual (incorporating 2002 JR Service Manual + 2003 JR Supplement), Gasoline Powertrain Diagnostic Manual

Parts List Coverage:

Implied inclusion of a parts list or reference to part numbers within the service manual, aiding in sourcing replacement components.

Estimated Total Pages:

Over 2000+ (estimated based on typical service and diagnostic manual volumes for this era and platform)

Type:

Service Repair Manual, Diagnostic Manual, Parts List (implied by description)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, transmission (automatic and possibly manual if applicable)

Chassis:

Braking system (hydraulic, ABS), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), wheels and tires, drivetrain (front-wheel drive)

Body And Electrical:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), lighting systems, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM) diagnostics, audio systems, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)

Fuel System Details:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system diagnosis.

Ignition System Details:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, ignition timing adjustments (if applicable).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), tune-up procedures, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt replacement, spark plug replacement

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission service and repair, suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints), brake system repair, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., OBD-II)

Suspension Repair:

Strut/shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, control arm bushing replacement, sway bar link replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line inspection and replacement, master cylinder replacement, ABS component testing and replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures. Includes detailed explanations, diagrams, specifications, and torque values required for professional servicing.

Diagnostic Charts:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for specific drivability concerns and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems, including power distribution, engine control, body electronics, and lighting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely PDF with searchable text for ease of navigation. High-resolution scans or digital source ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution images and clear, legible text suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L DOHC I4 (97kW / 132hp), 2.4L DOHC I4 (110kW / 150hp), 2.7L SOHC V6 (142kW / 190hp), 3.0L SOHC V6 (150kW / 201hp - common in Sebring/Cirrus top trims)

Horsepower Range:

132 hp to 201 hp (depending on engine)

Torque Range:

131 lb-ft to 195 lb-ft (depending on engine)

Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Common Engine Codes:

EDZ (2.0L I4), ED8 (2.4L I4), EHB (2.7L V6), EGN (3.0L V6 - often referred to by internal Chrysler codes)

Specific Engine Identification:

2.0L: EDZ, 2.4L: ED8, 2.7L V6: EHB, 3.0L V6: EGN (internal Chrysler code)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42LE 4-speed Automatic Transmission (common across most models and engines)

Transmission Options:

Manual transmission may have been available on certain base models or specific markets, but Automatic was predominant.

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, electronically controlled.

Atf Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.5 inches (sedan)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (sedan)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (depending on engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (driver), Acceptable (passenger) - *Note: Ratings can vary slightly by year and specific test. This reflects general performance for the era.*

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most trims, Traction Control System (TCS) - available on higher trims or as an option.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column, seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems with more speakers, optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Navigation:

Not typically available from the factory for the 2003 model year; aftermarket solutions would be required.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically available from the factory; aftermarket integration required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, using recommended oil viscosity and specification (consult manual for exact guidance based on driving conditions).

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change typically recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as specified by the manual, especially under severe driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs, or as specified by the specific plug type and engine.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), check manual for alternative viscosities.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent specified for Chrysler power steering systems of this era.

Clutch Fluid Type:

N/A (Automatic transmission primarily)

Common Problems:

Automatic transmission solenoid issues leading to harsh shifting or failure to engage gears, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, front suspension component wear (e.g., control arm bushings, tie rods), occasional electrical gremlins related to body control modules or power windows.

Engine Performance Issues:

Some instances of oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets, potential for EGR valve issues on higher mileage vehicles.

HVAC System Issues:

Common failure of the blower motor resistor which controls fan speed, leading to only high fan speed or no fan operation. Cabin air filter replacement is a standard maintenance item.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Chrysler Corporation (Dodge is a marque of Chrysler). Known for adapting platforms across brands, particularly during the DaimlerChrysler era.

Platform Sharing:

The JR platform was shared across the Dodge Stratus, Chrysler Sebring (sedan), and Plymouth Breeze (discontinued earlier). The Dodge Stratus nameplate has been used on different platforms in prior generations.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

2001-2006 (for this generation of Stratus sedan)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

As noted in safety section, generally received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in NHTSA and IIHS frontal impact tests for its class and time, indicating reasonable structural integrity.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied by year and specific model, but generally considered average to below average in terms of reliability and owner satisfaction compared to segment leaders during this period. The manual's comprehensive nature helps mitigate these potential issues for owners.