Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan
Target Audience:
Families, commuters
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Lumina, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Breeze, and Plymouth Neon.
Design Philosophy:
Aimed at offering a comfortable and spacious interior with modern styling for its era.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM).
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (A604) service, diagnostics, and overhaul; Clutch operation (if applicable for manual transmission variants, though primarily automatic).
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive system, CV axles, differential.
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake system service (discs), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair.
Electrical Systems:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical controls, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair, including refrigerant handling.
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, glass replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts), lubrication services, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes and interpretations.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension work, electrical component repair.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed procedures for disassembly and reassembly of all vehicle components.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Tightening torques, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment angles, performance specifications.
Depth Of Information:
Professional technician level, suitable for complex repairs and diagnostics, including full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 - 60,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Service SG or higher, refer to manual).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (AF) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix).
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket failures (especially on V6 engines, although less common than on some other Chrysler models of the era).
Common Issue 2:
Transmission issues with the A604 transaxle, including solenoid failures or torque converter clutch problems.
Common Issue 3:
Power window motor failures and regulator issues.
Common Issue 4:
Premature wear of suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Issue 5:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses).
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, known for performance and value.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Chrysler JA platform, replacing the Dodge Spirit and Dynasty.
Stratus Generations:
The first generation (JA) ran from 1995 to 2000. A second generation (JR) followed from 2001 to 2006.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
