Target Audience:
Budget-conscious families, individuals seeking reliable transportation
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Platform:
Chrysler JA platform (shared with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Cirrus, Plymouth Breeze)
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design for improved interior space and visibility
Interior Space:
Generous passenger and cargo room for its class
Engine:
2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4, 2.5L SOHC V6
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE), 5-speed manual (Getrag)
Brakes:
Front disc, Rear drum/disc (depending on trim)
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut, Rear multi-link independent
Steering:
Power rack and pinion
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starter, power accessories, instruments and gauges
Body And Frame:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, glass, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems
Restraints:
Airbags, seat belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for all major systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic strategies and wiring schematics.
Transmission Standard Type:
4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Optional Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (4-6 speakers).
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital odometer, and climate control readouts.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on this model year.
Auxiliary Input:
Not available (pre-dating widespread auxiliary audio jacks).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
2.0L/2.4L: 100,000 miles (platinum plugs). 2.5L V6: 100,000 miles (platinum plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
2.0L SOHC: 90,000 miles. 2.4L DOHC: 100,000 miles. 2.5L V6: 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6:
5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (all engines)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (blue colored) or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Transmission problems (especially early models), including harsh shifting, slipping, or failure to engage gears. Often related to solenoids or valve body issues.
Common Issue 2:
Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Common Issue 3:
Suspension component wear, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings.
Common Issue 4:
Front wheel bearing noise or failure.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to loss of fan speeds.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and performance-oriented vehicles, often positioned as a more aggressive or value-driven alternative within the Chrysler Corporation.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cloud cars' lineup, replacing the Dodge Spirit. The 1998 model represents a mid-cycle refresh with some styling and feature updates.
Platform Sharing:
The JA platform was developed by Chrysler and was shared across the Dodge Stratus, Plymouth Breeze, and Chrysler Cirrus. This allowed for cost efficiencies in development and production.
Production Years:
1995-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
