Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and professional technicians.
Competitors:
Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, aerodynamic styling, comfortable interior.
Powertrain Options:
Reliable and accessible engine and transmission choices for the era.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine diagnosis, repair, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions controls, engine management.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, internal components.
Transmission Manual:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, internal components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, struts.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, diagnosis.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, trim, corrosion protection.
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, upholstery, HVAC system, interior trim.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, refrigerant, components.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, scheduled maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, electronic component testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics.
Length:
Approx. 189.1 inches (4803 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.4 inches (2703 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.7 cu ft (2767 L)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.0 cu ft (425 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000 - 3300 lbs (1360 - 1497 kg), varies by engine and trim.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Could vary, typically 3-4 stars for this era.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Could vary, typically 3-4 stars for this era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).
Coolant Change:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (check owner's manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or equivalent for automatic; manual transmission fluid (MTF) for manual.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler P/N 04743652 or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, orange/red).
Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks, oil sludge buildup, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission Issues:
Transmission solenoid failures, torque converter shudder, fluid leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, power door lock issues, instrument cluster problems.
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, ball joints.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing practical and performance-oriented vehicles.
Stratus Generation:
This is the second generation of the Dodge Stratus (part of the JA platform), replacing the original Dodge Spirit and Monaco.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus.
Production Years:
1995-2000 (for this generation).
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
