Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan, competing with models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus.
Key Differentiators:
Chrysler's LH platform shared components with Chrysler Concorde/Intrepid. Offered a balance of comfort, space, and value. Optional V6 provided competitive performance.
Body Styles:
4-door sedan.
Engine Systems:
2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4, 2.5L SOHC V6; fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine mechanical, engine electrical.
Transmission Systems:
4-speed automatic transmission (42LE); removal, installation, diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive, CV joints, driveshafts, differential.
Suspension Systems:
Front McPherson strut, rear independent suspension; diagnosis, component replacement, alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Front disc, rear drum (or disc on some higher trims); hydraulic system, ABS operation, component replacement, bleeding procedures.
Steering Systems:
Power-assisted rack and pinion; diagnosis, component replacement, fluid specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules, wiring diagrams.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; component diagnosis, refrigerant handling, performance testing.
Body And Trim:
Interior trim removal, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, bumpers.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid level checks, belt inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, circuit testing, component testing.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, starter/alternator replacement.
Installation Procedures:
Component installation, accessory installation guidance.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics.
File Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmarked sections for easy navigation.
Print Quality Suitability:
Excellent for printing specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type Simulated:
Digital, no physical binding.
Paper Type Simulated:
Digital, no physical paper.
Base Engine 1:
2.0L (1995cc) DOHC I4 (Mitsubishi 4G63 variant)
Base Engine 1 Hp:
132 hp @ 5500 rpm
Base Engine 1 Torque:
127 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Optional Engine 1:
2.4L (2429cc) DOHC I4 (Chrysler World Gas Engine)
Optional Engine 1 Hp:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Optional Engine 2:
2.5L (2497cc) SOHC V6 (Chrysler EBD/6G73 variant)
Optional Engine 2 Hp:
168 hp @ 5800 rpm
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
175 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, O2 sensors.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (1998 models)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months (conventional oil), or 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months (synthetic oil) - consult manual for precise recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months, or more frequently if driving in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; check manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.0L/2.4L, 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) for 2.5L V6. Consult manual for exact fill.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended (check manual for specific conditions).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (5 year/100,000 mile) or equivalent HOAT coolant (Ethylene Glycol based).
Common Issues Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially 2.4L), intake manifold gasket leaks, timing belt replacement (2.0L needs scheduled replacement).
Common Issues Transmission:
Harsh shifting, transmission fluid leaks, potential for premature wear on the 42LE if not maintained.
Common Issues Suspension:
Wear on control arm bushings, sway bar links, and ball joints leading to clunking noises.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty power window motors, door lock actuators, instrument cluster failures, O2 sensor issues.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history in the American automotive market, known for performance-oriented vehicles and practical offerings.
Stratus Generation:
First generation Stratus (1995-2000), built on Chrysler's JA platform. Replaced the Dodge Spirit. Positioned as a more modern and spacious sedan.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2006 (global), 1995-2000 (North American market for this generation).
