🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler/Dodge

Model:

Sebring/Stratus Sedan and Convertible

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

JR

Platform:

Chrysler JS Platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Mid-size family sedan and convertible, competing in a segment with strong offerings from manufacturers like Toyota (Camry), Honda (Accord), Ford (Taurus), and Chevrolet (Malibu).

Competitive Analysis:

The Sebring/Stratus offered a blend of styling, comfort, and affordability. The convertible variant provided a distinct lifestyle appeal. Key competitors focused on reliability, fuel economy, and driving dynamics. This manual addresses the specific technical nuances of the 2004 model year's components and systems.

Key Features:

Wide range of engine options including efficient 4-cylinders and potent V6s, available in both sedan and convertible body styles, offering a comfortable ride and a reasonably spacious interior for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication, Driveline, Clutch, Electrical Systems, Body, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emissions Control, Audio/Video, Restraints, Wipers/Washers, Lighting, Instrument Cluster, Control Modules, Chassis, Frame, Bumpers, Tires/Wheels, Security Systems, Cruise Control

Chassis Components:

Covers the JR chassis, including frame, subframes, and associated mounting points.

Driveline And Differential:

Service information for axles, CV joints, drive shafts, and differential components.

Exhaust System:

Information on exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and exhaust pipe replacement and repair.

Fuel System:

Covers fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing, and evaporative emissions system components.

Wheels And Tires:

Information on wheel specifications, tire wear diagnosis, and mounting/balancing procedures.

Page Count:

Not Specified (Comprehensive Digital Manual)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Manual Scope:

Complete Service and Repair Manual covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics for the specified models and year.

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

2.4L 4-Cyl 16V PZEV, 2.7L 6-Cyl 24V DOHC Gasoline, 2.4L 4-Cyl 16V DOHC Turbo Gasoline, 2.7L 6-Cyl 24V DOHC FFV, 2.4L 4-Cyl 16V DOHC Gasoline

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems including engine control, lighting, audio, power accessories, and safety systems.

Body And Frame:

Includes procedures for body panel alignment, bumper removal and installation, frame inspection, and corrosion protection.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

Detailed information on A/C system operation, refrigerant handling, component testing (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core service, and climate control system diagnostics.

Restraint Systems:

Covers airbag system operation, sensor diagnostics, seatbelt servicing, and related SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components.

Instrument Cluster And Gauges:

Information on instrument cluster operation, gauge testing, warning lights, and related electrical circuits.

Suspension And Steering:

Includes wheel alignment specifications, component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, tie rods), power steering pump and rack diagnostics.

Brake System Coverage:

Detailed procedures for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake bleeding, and ABS system diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Assembly, Disassembly, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair, Maintenance, Component Replacement, System Adjustments

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including troubleshooting charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Engine Rebuild:

While not a full workshop manual for complete engine rebuilds from scratch (e.g., machining specs), it covers component disassembly, reassembly, torque specifications, and timing procedures for engine-based repairs.

Transmission Overhaul:

Provides detailed procedures for transmission removal, installation, and basic component replacement. Specific overhaul procedures may be covered, depending on the depth of the manual.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From routine maintenance and fluid changes to in-depth engine, transmission, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

Electrical Diagnostics:

In-depth coverage of the vehicle's complex electrical system, including power distribution, grounding, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, and ECM/PCM diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Quality (All pages are printable)

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-4 (Gasoline, PZEV, Turbocharged), 2.7L DOHC 24-Valve V6 (Gasoline, FFV - Flex Fuel Vehicle)

Performance Details:

Horsepower and torque varied by engine: 2.4L typically ranged from 140-150 hp (non-turbo) and 160-180 hp (turbo); 2.7L V6 typically produced around 180-200 hp. Torque figures would complement these outputs.

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management System:

Engine Control Module (ECM) controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions, and other engine functions.

Emission Control Systems:

The manual details the operation and servicing of emission control systems, including EGR, catalytic converter, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely a 4-speed automatic transmission for most variants. Manual transmission availability may have varied by specific model/market.

Optional Transmission:

Some configurations might have offered a 5-speed manual transmission, particularly with the 4-cylinder engines.

Transmission Features:

Automatic Overdrive (A/OD), Electronic Controls

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions Sedan:

Approximate Length: 193.7 inches; Width: 71.5 inches; Height: 57.1 inches (Sedan). Convertible dimensions would be similar, with slight variations due to top mechanism.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight typically ranged from approximately 3,100 lbs to 3,600 lbs depending on body style and engine.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Frontal crash test ratings were generally good for the time. Side impact ratings varied. Specific scores would require consulting NHTSA archives for the 2004 model year.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (often optional or standard on higher trims).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (often optional), front and rear crumple zones, seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Base models featured AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional upgrades included premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity), steering wheel audio controls, and in-dash CD changers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control was standard or optional. Advanced driver assistance systems were not common on vehicles of this era.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity options for the time. May have included auxiliary input for audio devices on some premium systems. No Bluetooth or USB typically standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Recommended Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil or 5,000-7,500 miles for synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific oil type and filter part numbers.

Engine Oil Specifications:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 for gasoline engines, conforming to API service classifications. Consult the manual for precise specifications and capacities for each engine option.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler's proprietary automatic transmission fluid) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specifications would be different.

Coolant Specifications:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (AF) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Capacity varies by engine, typically around 8-10 quarts. Check manual for exact capacity and type.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or a compatible ATF Dexron III/Mercon fluid. Consult manual for precise specification.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

Some common issues reported for this generation can include premature wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), HVAC blower motor failures, power window regulator issues, and occasional transmission shift problems. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these and other potential problems.

Recommended Tire Sizes:

Tire sizes varied by trim and wheel option, common sizes included P215/60R16 and P225/55R17. Tire pressure specifications are critical and listed in the manual.

Brake System Details:

Front disc brakes and rear drum or disc brakes depending on configuration. Brake fluid type is typically DOT 3. Manual provides caliper, rotor, and pad service information.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended replacement intervals vary by engine type. The manual will specify the correct spark plug part numbers, gap specifications, and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler, a historic American automaker, has a long lineage of producing comfortable and stylish vehicles, often known for their value proposition in the mid-size segment.

Model Evolution:

The Sebring and Stratus were part of Chrysler's (and later Dodge's) front-wheel-drive sedan and coupe/convertible offerings. The 2001-2006 generation was a significant redesign, moving to the JS platform, offering improved styling and a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessors.

Production Locations:

Mainly produced at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan.