Competitors:
Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Features Of Model:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, available V6 engine, front-wheel drive.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, and repair procedures for all 2004 Stratus engine options.
Transmission:
Complete coverage for automatic transmission (40TE/41TE) service, repair, and torque converter.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS operation, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component identification, replacement, alignment procedures, and shock absorber/strut service.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump and rack replacement, and steering column service.
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), and blower motor service.
Body:
Body panel alignment, door and window regulator repair, interior trim removal, and exterior component replacement.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, and diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid), filter replacements, and general tune-up guidelines.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for common and complex component failures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Installation:
Guidance on installing or replacing major components and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repairs.
Engine 1 2.0L I4:
2.0L SOHC I4, 132 hp @ 5800 rpm, 131 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2 2.7L V6:
2.7L SOHC V6, 154 hp @ 5300 rpm, 175 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 2003 model year, likely similar for 2004 base V6)
Engine 3 2.4L I4:
2.4L DOHC I4, 147 hp @ 5500 rpm, 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (common engine option)
Engine 4 3.8L V6:
3.8L OHV V6, 200 hp @ 5000 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (likely for higher trims/performance variants if applicable)
Fuel Economy Est Mpg:
Approx. 21 city / 28 highway (2.0L I4)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) - check manual for exact specification
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change - check manual for exact specification
Transmission Type Std:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 40TE/41TE)
Transmission Type Opt:
Not typically offered with manual transmission in North America for this generation.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) for drain and fill - check manual for exact specification
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars
IIHS Front Offset:
Acceptable (for some model years/configurations)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims.
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Standard front seatbelt pretensioners.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional premium sound system with amplifier.
Navigation:
Not commonly available or offered as an aftermarket option for this generation.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Power Windows:
Standard on most trims, optional on base.
Power Locks:
Standard on most trims, optional on base.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as per severe duty schedule (refer to manual).
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for modern spark plugs (refer to manual for specific type and interval).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check manual for specific engine and temperature range).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues (slipping, harsh shifting), power steering pump leaks, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), alternator failure, intake manifold gasket leaks (on some V6 engines), cooling fan issues.
Brand Focus:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has historically offered a range of vehicles from minivans to performance cars, with a focus on aggressive styling and accessible performance.
Generation:
This is the second generation Stratus (2001-2006), based on the Chrysler JA platform. It replaced the original Stratus and offered improved styling and features.
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
2001-2006
