Segment:
Mid-size convertible, competing with vehicles like Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, and Toyota Camry Solara Convertible.
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed technical information for maintenance and repair.
Advantage:
Offered a stylish convertible option on a front-wheel-drive platform, providing a more comfortable ride and easier access than many rear-wheel-drive competitors of the era.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated convertible top with integrated climate control system.
Styling:
Distinctive cab-forward styling, a hallmark of Chrysler design in the 1990s.
Engine Options:
2.0L I4, 2.4L I4, 2.5L V6
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic
Trim Levels:
All Convertible trims
Estimated Pages:
Highly comprehensive, typically 1000+ pages for this era of Chrysler/Dodge service manuals
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (disc, drum, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, convertible top operation, body control modules
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body And Interior:
Exterior panels, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms, seats, safety restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, brake pads, etc.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic trees.
Engine 1:
2.0L SOHC I4 (Mitsubishi 4G63 derivative)
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 132 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Engine 2:
2.4L DOHC I4 (Chrysler World Engine)
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 147 hp @ 5500 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 156 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Engine 3:
2.5L SOHC V6 (Chrysler EGE/6G73)
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 164 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.0 inches (2692 mm)
Length:
Approx. 191.2 inches (4856 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.6 inches (1387 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg) depending on engine and equipment
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 8.1 cubic feet (with top up)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star rating for driver and front passenger in frontal impact tests (for sedan, convertible may vary).
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum or rear disc (depending on engine/trim); Optional ABS.
Traction Control:
Optional
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point seat belts, rear 3-point seat belts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and side structure for rollover safety.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (10W-30 recommended, consult manual for specific engine/climate)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for 2.0L and 2.5L V6 engines, typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles. Check manual for exact interval.
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 for colder climates). Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar ATF +3) for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) long-life coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine 2.5L V6:
Head gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, timing belt failure leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission 41Te 42Le:
Solenoid failures, valve body issues, torque converter shudder.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic leaks, motor failure, fabric wear and tear, seal degradation.
Electrical:
Issues with power window motors, power lock actuators, and body control modules.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings.
Brand:
Dodge is a division of Chrysler, with a long history of performance and utility vehicles.
Generation:
First generation Dodge Stratus (JA chassis) introduced for the 1995 model year. Convertible version launched in 1996.
Facelift:
Minor styling updates occurred throughout its production run, including grille and bumper revisions.
Production Period:
1995-2000 (USA)
Assembly Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
