Segment:
Mid-size sedan (Chrysler's entry into the segment previously occupied by Dodge Neon)
Target Market:
Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima
Interior Space:
Spacious cabin for its class, comfortable seating
Ride Quality:
Generally comfortable ride, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporty handling
Styling:
Distinctive styling for its era, a departure from previous Dodge sedans
Engine Options:
Available with a four-cylinder and a V6 engine, offering a balance of efficiency and power
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system, exhaust system
Engine Performance:
Engine tuning, diagnostics, emissions control systems (OBD-II)
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (42LE), Manual Transmission (D505/NVT-150 - if applicable), clutch system, transmission control module (TCM), fluid service
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake
Suspension:
Front struts and coil springs, rear shock absorbers and torsion bars (or coil springs depending on configuration), control arms, ball joints, sway bars, steering knuckles
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack or gearbox, tie rod ends
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), horn, wipers
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, controls
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, frame and unibody structure, glass and seals
Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for all major systems
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, battery maintenance
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-to-cause identification, wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical system repairs
Adjustment And Calibration:
Wheel alignment, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, idle speed adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Est:
4/5 Stars (depending on year and equipment)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Est:
4/5 Stars (depending on year and equipment)
IIHS Frontal Offset Est:
Acceptable/Good (depending on year)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on some base models
Airbags Front:
Standard Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point, Rear 3-point, available shoulder belts in rear
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium)
Transmission Fluid Service Miles:
30,000-60,000 miles
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
5W-30 (most common, check owner's manual for exact specification)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT or HOAT, depending on year/original fill)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Common Issue Head Gaskets:
Some models, particularly those with the 2.0L engine, were prone to head gasket failures due to design or material issues.
Common Issue Transmission Issues:
The 42LE automatic transmission can experience issues like solenoid failures or torque converter problems if not properly maintained.
Common Issue Ac System:
HVAC systems, particularly the AC compressor and blend door actuators, can be sources of problems.
Common Issue Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts are common wear items as the vehicle ages.
Common Issue Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can degrade and leak over time.
Dodge History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing performance vehicles, trucks, and family cars.
Stratus Introduction:
Introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup (alongside the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze), replacing the Dodge Spirit.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Chrysler JA platform, shared with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. Later generations used different platforms.
Production Period:
1995-2000 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
