🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2002

Market Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Coupe

Chassis Code:

JA (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Stratus (JA platform) was positioned as a competitively priced, stylish mid-size sedan and coupe, aiming to capture buyers looking for comfort, practicality, and a touch of American flair in a segment dominated by imports.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima. The Stratus often distinguished itself with bolder styling and a more accessible price point for certain powertrains.

Key Features:

Available in both sedan and coupe body styles (though the coupe was phased out earlier in the generation). Offered a choice of efficient four-cylinder and powerful V6 engines. Comfortable interior with a focus on practicality and driver ergonomics. Modern styling for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical, electrical, body, and trim components; maintenance procedures; diagnostic troubleshooting; repair procedures; specifications.

Page Count:

Detailed digital content, equivalent to approximately 2000+ printed pages.

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (2.0L, 2.4L, 2.7L V6), Transmission (4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, standard), Exhaust, Fuel System, Cooling System, Climate Control, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, component testing), Body, Interior, Safety Systems (airbags, seat belts), Diagnostics.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, engine diagnostics and repair, transmission service and overhaul, brake system inspection and repair, suspension and steering component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting, HVAC repair, body panel repair and replacement, airbag system service, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics, component-level repair, and complete system overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital software application or PDF; optimized for quick access and searchability.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, high-resolution diagrams)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 1:

2.0L (1995cc) SOHC I4 (Engine Code: ECC)

Primary Engine 1 Power:

132 hp @ 5600 rpm

Primary Engine 1 Torque:

131 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Primary Engine 2:

2.4L (2429cc) DOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDZ)

Primary Engine 2 Power:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm

Primary Engine 2 Torque:

167 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Primary Engine 3:

2.7L (2736cc) DOHC V6 (Engine Code: EVS)

Primary Engine 3 Power:

175 hp @ 5800 rpm

Primary Engine 3 Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Compression Ratio 2.4L:

9.5:1

Bore X Stroke 2.7L V6:

3.58 in x 3.27 in (91.0 mm x 83.0 mm)

Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for I4 engines, 89 octane recommended for V6)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (AX48/AX4N) for most models. Some base models might have offered a 5-speed manual (NVT NV3500) with the 2.0L engine.

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (NVT NV3500) for 2.0L engine; 4-speed automatic (AX48/AX4N) was standard on most others.

Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:

Approx. 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) for AX48/AX4N (dry fill)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON for earlier transmissions, check manual for specific fill).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.7 inches (2736 mm)

Length Sedan:

189.9 inches (4823 mm)

Width Sedan:

70.0 inches (1778 mm)

Height Sedan:

55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Front Headroom Sedan:

39.0 inches (991 mm)

Front Legroom Sedan:

42.1 inches (1070 mm)

Rear Headroom Sedan:

37.6 inches (955 mm)

Rear Legroom Sedan:

33.4 inches (848 mm)

Trunk Capacity Sedan:

14.2 cubic feet (402 liters)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg), depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

4 Stars (for 2002 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2002 model year)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Good (for comparable Dodge Stratus models)

Active Features Standard:

Front disc / Rear drum brakes (ABS optional/standard on higher trims).

Active Features Optional:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Passive Features Standard:

Front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners.

Passive Features Optional:

Side airbags (often part of option packages).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player. Optional Infinity premium audio system. Steering wheel mounted audio controls available on some trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control standard on most models. Traction control available on select models with V6 engine and automatic transmission.

Connectivity Features:

Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval I4:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium spark plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium spark plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 100,000 miles or 5 years.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:

4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:

4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L V6:

4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/100 Formula (Orange)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Known Issues Common:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings) wear prematurely. Rear brake component issues (calipers, rotors). Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pans. Heater core leaks. Power steering pump noise or leaks. Transmission shift quality issues, especially with the AX48/AX4N. Catalytic converter failure. AC system compressor clutch failure. Window regulator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later FCA, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing American vehicles known for performance, practicality, and bold styling. The Stratus represents a modern iteration of Dodge's mid-size offerings.

Model Evolution:

The 2002 model year Stratus is part of the second generation (JA platform, introduced for the 2001 model year), which replaced the earlier JA platform Stratus. This generation featured updated styling, improved interiors, and revised powertrains, including the introduction of the 2.7L V6. The coupe version was discontinued after 2005.

Production Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (primarily)

Production Years Ja Platform:

2001-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a frequent recipient of major awards, the Stratus was generally considered a competent and affordable option in its segment during its production run. Specific awards for the 2002 model year are not prominently documented, but it was part of Dodge's strategy to offer value-oriented vehicles.