Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions controls, turbocharging (if applicable)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, internal components, linkages
Transmission Automatic:
Valve body, torque converter, internal gear sets, electronic controls, fluid system
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, pump, rack and pinion, steering column, alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake fluid
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system, refrigerant
Interior Systems:
Seats, airbags, restraints, infotainment, instrument cluster
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Component Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Using wiring diagrams, testing circuits, diagnosing electrical faults
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, glass installation, paint preparation
Depth Of Information:
Extremely high; covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
References to OE diagnostic scan tools and procedures
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements for all components
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/AE)
Transmission Type Optional 1:
5-Speed Manual (NVG56 - less common)
Transmission Type Optional 2:
4-Speed Automatic (42LE - for V6 models)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive
Manual Transmission Features:
Standard clutch operation
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
Good (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
Good (for 2004 model)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Acceptable (for 2004 model)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard, side airbags optional
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, refer to manual)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, refer to manual)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on fluid type and usage, refer to manual)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher), check manual for specific classifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.0L/2.4L, 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) for V6
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)
Engine Mounts:
Premature failure of engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration.
Transmission Shifting Issues:
Some transmissions may exhibit rough shifting or hesitation, often related to solenoid issues or fluid condition.
Ignition Coil Packs:
Individual ignition coil packs can fail, leading to misfires.
Power Window Motors:
Power window regulators and motors can be a common failure point.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can crack, leading to coolant leaks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing American cars, often with a focus on performance and value.
Stratus Generations:
The 2004 model is part of the second generation of the Dodge Stratus, which ran from 2001-2006. This generation saw a redesign with a more modern platform and styling.
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Michigan
Model Lifecycle:
The Stratus was produced from 1995 to 2006, with the second generation (2001-2006) offering significant updates.