Target Audience:
Families, commuters, general public
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu
Interior Space:
Known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride
Styling:
Distinctive Dodge styling, offering a balance of sportiness and practicality
Value Proposition:
Often positioned as a value-oriented alternative in its segment
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, diagnosis of performance issues
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (41TE) repair, diagnosis, fluid specifications, torque converter
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS operation and diagnosis, hydraulic components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system components and repair
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, structural components, door mechanisms, glass, trim
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, upholstery, interior trim repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seatbelt mechanisms
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete rebuild procedures for engine and transmission
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics
Depth Level:
Expert Level (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers)
Diagnostic Tools:
References to OBD-II codes and diagnostic procedures
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems available.
Display:
Standard instrument cluster display, no integrated navigation or touchscreen for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry system
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (typically for Iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (under normal/severe conditions)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 2.4L; 4.7 quarts (4.4 liters) for 2.7L V6
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Automatic Transmission:
Potential for delayed shifting, harsh engagement, or solenoid issues with the 41TE transmission.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links can lead to clunking noises and steering instability.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Malfunctioning blend door actuators can cause incorrect air temperature or airflow direction.
Brand Origins:
Dodge, an American automotive brand established in 1914 by the Dodge Brothers.
First Generation Start:
1993 (as Dodge Intrepid, later replaced by Stratus)
Stratus Introduction Year:
1995
Second Generation Start:
2001
2004 Model Year Updates:
Minor updates to features and packaging. No major redesign.
Assembly Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years For Gen2:
2001-2006