Dodge Stratus Convertible 1996 Repair Service Manual

Regular price: $16.99
Sale price: $16.99
Regular price
Unit price: per

🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Convertible Year: 1996 Generation Platform: JA (Chrysler Europe/Australia platform) Codes Chassis Code: JA 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size convertible coupe. Target...

18 people are viewing this right now

Type: Car

Vendor:

Sku: 458996

Tags: 1996 Car Cars Dodge Misc Stratus Convertible

Product variants

Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus Convertible

Year:

Generation

Platform:

JA (Chrysler Europe/Australia platform)

Codes

Chassis Code:

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Segment:

Mid-size convertible coupe.

Target Audience:

Consumers seeking an affordable, stylish convertible with practical seating for four.

Competitive Analysis

Key Competitors:

Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Toyota Camry Solara Convertible (later years), Pontiac Firebird Convertible.

Key Features

Convertible Top:

Power-operated convertible top with optional hard cover for a cleaner look when retracted.

Interior Space:

Relatively spacious interior for a convertible, often accommodating four passengers.

Styling:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, a hallmark of Chrysler's cab-forward design era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

All Models Trims Engines:

Page Count

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Manual Type

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems, emission controls, engine diagnostics.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE), manual transmission (if applicable), driveshafts, CV joints, differential, axles, clutch system (if applicable).

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic components, parking brake.

Steering Suspension:

Power steering system, steering linkage, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, convertible top control module, body control module (BCM), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body Chassis:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism and operation, frame, underbody.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant circuits, controls, blower motor.

Procedures Included

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system component replacement, suspension system repairs, electrical system component replacement, convertible top mechanism repairs.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing specific components such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, sensors, body panels, interior trim.

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, valve adjustments, wheel alignment specifications, and other critical measurements.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance, intermediate repairs, and advanced diagnostics and overhauls suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

PDF Quality:

High resolution, searchable text, printable pages.

Print Quality

Print Readability:

Designed for clear reproduction if printed, with legible text and diagrams.

Binding Type

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Type

Paper Recommendation:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Code:

EER (2.4L DOHC Inline-4) and EGW (3.0L SOHC V6)

Displacement Inline4:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Horsepower Inline4:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque Inline4:

167 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Displacement V6:

3.0 Liters (2997 cc)

Horsepower V6:

155 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Torque V6:

181 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (approx.)

Performance

0-60 Mph Approx:

9.0-10.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Engine Management

ECM Type:

Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Standard Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Optional

Optional Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (less common on convertible, primarily on sedan/coupe)

Features

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up clutch for improved fuel efficiency.

Fluid Specifications

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar specification)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

193.5 inches (4915 mm)

Width:

70.8 inches (1798 mm)

Height:

54.0 inches (1372 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.0 inches (2692 mm)

Interior

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 88 cubic feet

Cargo

Trunk Volume Convertible Top Up:

Approximately 9 cubic feet

Trunk Volume Convertible Top Down:

Significantly reduced, approximately 4-5 cubic feet.

Weights

Curb Weight Approx:

3400 - 3600 lbs (depending on engine and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

4450 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 1996 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 1996 model year)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for comparable models from that era)

Active Features

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.

Passive Features

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame for improved rollover protection in a convertible.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speaker system, depending on trim level.

Driver Assistance

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Connectivity

Aux Input:

Not standard; aftermarket adapters or head unit replacements required for aux/USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (recommendation based on driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Inline4:

Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type: copper, platinum, or iridium).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate, check manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Capacity Inline4:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (ATF+3 may be specified).

Known Issues

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Common issues include hydraulic leaks, motor failure, and sensor malfunctions in the power convertible top system.

Interior Rattles Creaks:

Convertibles, by nature, can be more prone to interior rattles and creaks due to the lack of a fixed roof structure.

Engine Performance 2.4L:

Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, though generally considered a reliable engine.

Engine Performance 3.0L V6:

The Mitsubishi-sourced V6 is generally robust but can be prone to oil leaks and may have intake manifold gasket issues similar to other Chrysler V6s of the era.

Suspension Components:

Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to premature tire wear and alignment issues.

Electrical Accessories:

Window regulators, power lock actuators, and convertible top switches can fail over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented and practical vehicles, expanding into various segments including convertibles.

Model Evolution

Stratus Lineage:

The Dodge Stratus was part of Chrysler's LH platform family but was re-badged and downsized onto the JA platform, offering a more affordable option. The convertible variant was a distinctive offering in the mid-size segment.

Production

Production Years For Stratus Convertible:

1996-2000

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Automotive Press Reviews:

Received mixed reviews, praised for styling and affordability in the convertible segment, but sometimes criticized for interior materials and less refined driving dynamics compared to some European rivals.

Ratings

Jd Power Initial Quality Survey:

Typically ranked average to below average in initial quality surveys of its era, common for many American cars during this period.

Certifications

Emisiones Standards:

Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards for 1996.