Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, ignition system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE) service, diagnostics, and repair; Manual transmission (if applicable to specific trims/engines) service
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheel and tire specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience features, power accessories
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seating, HVAC system, body sealing, exterior trim
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance, tire rotation and pressure checks
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, pinpoint tests for electrical issues
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of major systems
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, critical clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic readings
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain replacement (depending on engine), camshaft service
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel pump diagnosis and replacement, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure testing
Brake System Overhaul:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line inspection and replacement, master cylinder replacement
Suspension Component Replacement:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, control arm bushing replacement
Depth:
In-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, including component-level repair and advanced diagnostics
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including powertrain control, body electronics, and comfort features
Diagnostics Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and specific diagnostic procedures for various control modules (PCM, BCM, etc.)
Base Engine:
2.0L (1995cc) SOHC Inline-4 (Engine Code: 4G63 - Mitsubishi Origin)
Base Engine Power:
Approx. 130-136 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
Approx. 130-135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Optional Engine 1:
2.4L (2351cc) DOHC Inline-4 (Engine Code: G4CS - Chrysler Origin)
Optional Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 147-150 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 156-160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Optional Engine 2:
2.7L (2736cc) DOHC V6 (Engine Code: EER/EGG)
Optional Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 185-200 hp @ 5800-6400 rpm
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 190-195 lb-ft @ 4000-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 2.0L and 2.4L, 89 octane recommended for 2.7L V6)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Not explicitly rated for all configurations, but general 4-star for frontal impact
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Not explicitly rated for all configurations, but general 4-star for frontal impact
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable to Good (varies by specific year and testing methodology)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims/engine options
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard; optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs: 100,000 miles (2.4L and 2.7L). Standard plugs (if applicable): 30,000 miles (2.0L).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SL or SM, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for 2.0L and 2.4L); SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 2.7L V6 (refer to manual for precise viscosity)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, P-50 or equivalent
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibrations.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional rough shifting or slipping in the 4-speed automatic, often related to solenoid packs or valve body wear.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings, leading to steering looseness and noise.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window motors and regulators.
HVAC Blend Doors:
Stuck or broken HVAC blend door actuators, causing temperature control issues.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing American-style sedans, often emphasizing performance and value.
First Generation:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced in 1995 as part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' family, based on the Chrysler JA platform. This manual covers the second generation, which debuted in 2001, featuring revised styling and powertrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA; Toluca Car Assembly, Mexico
Production End Date:
Production for the Stratus sedan ended in 2006, replaced by the Dodge Avenger.
