🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler / Dodge

Model:

Sebring / Stratus / Cirrus

Production Year:

2003

Platform:

JR Platform (Chrysler JA/JXI)

Chassis Code:

JR

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

This manual serves as the definitive technical guide for 2003 Chrysler and Dodge JR platform vehicles, essential for dealership technicians, independent repair shops, and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible.

Comparison:

Distinguishes itself by providing year-specific updates crucial for accurate repairs, unlike generic manuals claiming to cover multiple model years. Emphasizes manufacturer-issued documentation.

Unique Selling Points:

Official JR Service Manual plus 2003 Supplement for precise year coverage, comprehensive system coverage, manufacturer-written content, detailed diagrams and illustrations, and a user-friendly, searchable PDF format.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

2003 Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler Stratus, Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus

Covered Engines:

2.0L DOHC, 2.4L DOHC, 2.7L DOHC

Covered Transmissions:

41TE Automatic Transaxle, T-350 Manual Transaxle, T-850 Manual Transaxle

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (combined official service manual and supplement, typically hundreds of pages per vehicle/engine combination)

Type:

Official Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Authenticity:

Original JR Service Manual (as stated in product description), implying manufacturer-issued documentation.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (two files: 2002 JR Service Manual and 2003 JR Supplement)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.0L DOHC, 2.4L DOHC, 2.7L DOHC), Transmission/Transaxle (41TE Automatic, T-350 Manual, T-850 Manual), Differential and Driveline, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control

Chassis:

Suspension, Brakes, Frame & Bumpers, Steering, Tires & Wheels

Electrical:

Body, Chassis & Electrical, Wiring Diagrams, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules (ECMs), Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Compass/Mini-Trip Computer, Power Systems, Restraints (Airbags/Seatbelts), Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers

Body Interior:

Body (panels, doors, glass, trim), Frame & Bumpers, Heating & Air Conditioning, Interior components.

Maintenance:

Lubrication & Maintenance, Fluid Replacements, Filter Changes, General Service

Repair Diagnostics:

Disassembly & Installation Procedures, Technical Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting, Component Testing, Repair Procedures for all covered systems

Depth:

Comprehensive Workshop Manual - Covers everything from basic maintenance to detailed component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High Quality, Searchable, Bookmarked, with functional internal links.

Searchability:

Fully Searchable PDF text.

Bookmarking:

Fully Bookmarked PDF for easy navigation.

Printability:

Printable (individual pages or entire manual)

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L DOHC (16-valve Inline-4), 2.4L DOHC (16-valve Inline-4), 2.7L DOHC (24-valve V6)

Engine Code 2.0L:

EDZ (example for 2.0L DOHC)

Engine Code 2.4L:

EDT (example for 2.4L DOHC)

Engine Code 2.7L:

ECL (example for 2.7L V6 DOHC)

2.0L DOHc Power:

Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm; 130 lb-ft torque @ 4400 rpm (Subject to specific market and vehicle trim)

2.4L DOHc Power:

Approx. 147 hp @ 5800 rpm; 165 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm (Subject to specific market and vehicle trim)

2.7L DOHc Power:

Approx. 200 hp @ 6400 rpm; 190 lb-ft torque @ 4300 rpm (Subject to specific market and vehicle trim)

Injection Type:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE), 5-speed Manual Transaxle (T-350 - primarily with 2.0L/2.4L engines), 6-speed Manual Transaxle (T-850 - less common, typically with specific engines)

Optional Transmissions:

Various Automatic and Manual options depending on engine and model trim.

Automatic Features:

Selectable drive modes (e.g., 'Norm', 'Econ', 'Sport' on some models), Overdrive gearing.

Manual Features:

Standard clutch actuation, gear-specific ratios.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.7 inches (2761 mm) (Varies slightly by model, Sebring Sedan/Coupe/Convertible)

Length:

Approx. 193.7 inches (4920 mm) (Varies slightly by model, Sebring Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm) (Varies slightly by model)

Height:

Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm) (Varies slightly by model, Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg) (Varies significantly by engine and body style)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Four-star rating for driver and front passenger (2003 Sebring Sedan, typical)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good rating for side impact protection (2003 Sebring Sedan, typical)

Braking System:

Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (ABS typically standard on most models)

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on higher trims/engines

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; Optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners in front and rear positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional Infinity premium audio system, steering wheel audio controls on some trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Sensors:

Rarely available for this model year.

Connectivity Features:

Limited; primarily focused on audio and basic vehicle functions. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports typically.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter (or as specified).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, typically Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic recommended for longer intervals)

Transmission Fluid Type 41Te:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Coolant Type:

OAT (Organic Additive Technology) - typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant HOAT or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 or MS-12106.

Common Wear Items:

CV Axles, Struts/Shocks, Wheel Bearings, Alternator, Radiator, Heater Core (especially in convertible models), Interior plastics and trim degradation.

Engine 2.7L Specific:

Timing chain wear, oil sludge issues if maintenance is neglected.

Transmission 41Te Specific:

Solenoid failures, torque converter issues, premature clutch wear if fluid and filter are not regularly changed.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Group LLC (part of DaimlerChrysler at the time)

Platform Genesis:

The JR platform vehicles (Sebring, Stratus, Cirrus) succeeded earlier Chrysler platforms and were designed to offer a range of sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles.

2003 Updates:

The 2003 model year brought minor updates and refinements, with specific differences detailed in the provided supplement manual.

Manufacturing Locations:

Various Chrysler assembly plants, notably Sterling Heights, Michigan (for sedans) and Brampton, Ontario (for coupes/convertibles).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The Dodge Stratus R/T and Chrysler Sebring Coupe/Convertible were often positioned as sportier variants, though mainstream awards were limited compared to some competitors.