Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for accurate and efficient servicing of the Dodge Stratus across multiple model years and configurations.
Vehicle Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth technical data for the Dodge Stratus.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components (CV joints, driveshafts).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (disc/drum, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, dashboard controls, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, infotainment system wiring, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, roof.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, component testing procedures, wiring diagram interpretation, using diagnostic scan tools.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical system specifications, engine performance data, alignment specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick access to specific information.
Clarity:
High-resolution scans or original digital files ensuring clear diagrams and text.
Format For Use:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical binding)
Durability:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical paper type)
Engine 1:
2.0L SOHC I4 (Engine Code: 420A)
Engine 1 Displacement:
1996 cc (121.8 cu in)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm (3.35 in x 3.46 in)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.6:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
114 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)
Engine 1 Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approximate)
Engine 2:
2.4L DOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDZ)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2429 cc (148.2 cu in)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 100.0 mm (3.44 in x 3.94 in)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.2:1
Engine 2 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Engine 2 Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Engine 3:
2.5L DOHC V6 (Engine Code: PLR - some markets, or Mitsubishi 6G73)
Engine 3 Displacement:
2497 cc (152.4 cu in)
Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 76.0 mm (3.27 in x 2.99 in)
Engine 3 Compression Ratio:
9.0:1
Engine 3 Horsepower:
160-170 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (approximate, depending on year/market)
Engine 3 Torque:
170-175 lb-ft @ 4400-4800 rpm (approximate, depending on year/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
0 To 60 Mph:
9.5 - 12.5 seconds (varies by engine and configuration)
Transmission 1:
5-speed manual (likely with 2.0L engine)
Transmission 2:
4-speed automatic (likely with 2.4L and V6 engines)
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission (42LE, etc.)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 or equivalent (verify with manual for specific model year)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (verify with manual)
Length:
Approx. 193.7 inches (491.9 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.4 inches (178.8 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.9 inches (142.0 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.0 inches (2743 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 98.1 cu ft (2778 L)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.7 cu ft (445 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg) depending on engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 4300 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
N/A (Not tested for all years/configurations, but generally average)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
N/A (Not tested for all years/configurations, but generally average)
IIHS Side Impact:
Marginal to Acceptable (depending on year and specific tests)
ABS:
Optional or standard on higher trims/later years.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, particularly with V6 engines.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Optional premium audio systems available.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional or standard on higher trims/later years.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were available options or standard on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.0L: Approx. 60,000 miles. 2.4L/2.5L V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs). Refer to manual.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 compatible) - refer to manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 2.0L and 2.4L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) for 2.5L V6 (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Formula 1 or equivalent (50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (verify with manual)
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration.
Transmission Solenoids:
Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, leading to shifting problems or 'limp mode'.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or failing power steering pumps are a common complaint.
Head Gaskets:
While not as common as on some other Chrysler engines, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on the 2.7L V6 (though not common in the Stratus of this era). The 2.5L V6 is generally more robust.
Cv Axles:
Front CV axles can wear out and develop clicking noises during turns.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing American-market vehicles known for performance and value. The Stratus was part of Chrysler's effort to offer competitive mid-size sedans.
Generation 1:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit. It was based on Chrysler's JA platform, a joint venture with Mitsubishi. It was available as a four-door sedan.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The Stratus received a facelift for the 2001 model year, becoming the Stratus sedan, while the coupe variant was introduced as the Chrysler Sebring Coupe (which replaced the Sebring coupe sedan). This manual covers the original JA platform Stratus.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2000 (JA Platform)
Model Accolades:
The Stratus was generally considered a competent, if unexciting, mid-size sedan. It often received mixed reviews compared to its Japanese competitors but offered a more affordable entry into the segment for many buyers.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and engine, with some years and configurations showing average to below-average reliability compared to class leaders. The manual is essential for addressing these potential issues.
