🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Model Variant:

Cirrus JA

Year:

1997

Platform:

Chrysler JA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.

Competitors:

Ford Contour, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima, Mazda MX-6.

Design:

First-generation Stratus (JA platform) featured a rounded, aerodynamic design typical of the mid-1990s. The Cirrus variant often represented a higher trim level.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides authoritative, factory-level information essential for accurate diagnosis and repair, saving time and money on maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Lubrication, Maintenance, Suspension, Differential, Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling System, Battery, Starter, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel, Audio Systems, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control, Turn Signals, Flashers, Windshield Wipers/Washers, Lamps, Restraint System, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Door Locks, Vehicle Theft Security, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder, Wiring Diagrams, Engine, Exhaust System, Intake Manifold, Bumpers, Frame, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Tires, Wheels, Body, Heating, Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems

Procedures Included:

Diagnosis, Repair, Maintenance, Overhaul, Troubleshooting, Replacement, Adjustment, Testing, Inspection, Electrical Schematics, Component Location

Estimated Pages:

Varies based on specific vendor, typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive factory service manual.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (Zip/PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, intake manifold, cooling system, starting system, charging system, transaxle, differential, driveline.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, hydraulic and parking), wheels, tires.

Electrical And Body:

Instrument panel, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), audio systems, horns, vehicle speed control, turn signals, flashers, wipers and washers, restraint system (airbags), electrically heated systems, power locks, security system, power seats, power windows, power mirrors, chime warning systems, wiring diagrams, body panels, bumpers, frame, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), emission control systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes), lubrication points, tire rotation, brake inspection, belt inspection/replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

System-specific troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, diagnostic equipment usage.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment of all major systems.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component identification and routing, electrical connector information.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transaxle rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Zip archive containing PDF documents

PDF Quality:

Typically scanned factory documents, quality can vary but generally clear and readable. Searchable text functionality depends on the PDF creation process.

Printability:

Printable pages, allowing for physical reference.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

2.0L SOHC 4-cylinder (A568, Mitsubishi 4G63 variant)

Engine Code 2:

2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder (EDZ, Chrysler 'World Engine')

Engine Code 3:

2.5L DOHC V6 (1996cc, Mitsubishi 6G73 variant)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 118 hp

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 123 lb-ft

Horsepower 2.4L:

Approx. 145 hp

Torque 2.4L:

Approx. 155 lb-ft

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approx. 164 hp

Torque 2.5L V6:

Approx. 177 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Timing Belt 2.0L 2.4L:

Uses a timing belt, requiring periodic replacement (refer to maintenance schedule for interval).

Timing Chain 2.5L V6:

Uses a timing chain, generally designed for the life of the engine, but requires periodic inspection.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag A578 on 2.0L and some 2.4L models)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (Chrysler 41TE/42LE on 2.4L and 2.5L V6 models)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon for models using earlier specifications, refer to manual for exact spec)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

55.4 inches (1407 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3000 lbs (1360 kg) for base 2.0L models

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3300 lbs (1497 kg) for V6 models

Standard Tire Size:

P195/70R14 or P205/60R15 (depending on trim and options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

Acceptable (some variations may exist based on specific test data).

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

Good (some variations may exist based on specific test data).

ABS:

Optional or standard on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

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

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant from 1996 onwards, facilitating standardized diagnostic scan tool communication.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years for 2.0L and 2.4L engines (critical maintenance item, refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic transmissions (refer to manual).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and viscosity recommendations)

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler's Preferred Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems 1:

Timing belt failure on 2.0L/2.4L engines if not replaced on schedule (can cause catastrophic engine damage).

Common Problems 2:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures or hard shifting issues.

Common Problems 3:

Front suspension component wear (e.g., ball joints, tie rod ends).

Common Problems 4:

Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system leaks leading to Check Engine light.

Common Problems 5:

Power window motor failures, power lock actuator issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Positioning:

Chrysler's performance-oriented brand, though the Cirrus/Stratus aimed for broader market appeal.

Platform Introduction:

The JA platform, shared with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze, debuted for the 1995 model year. The Dodge Stratus was introduced for 1995 as well.

First Generation:

1995-2000 (JA platform)

1997 Updates:

Minor adjustments to options and features may have occurred, but no significant redesign. The 2.0L engine remained, along with the 2.4L and 2.5L V6 options.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Import From Mexico Designation:

While assembled in the US, the JA platform had significant Japanese engineering input due to the Mitsubishi partnership.

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Acceptable (for 1997 models in frontal offset tests).