Market Segment:
Mid-size convertible, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, and Toyota Camry Solara Convertible.
Key Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Toyota Camry Solara, Pontiac Firebird.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated convertible top with detailed maintenance and repair procedures in the manual.
Platform Sharing:
Built on the Chrysler JA platform, sharing many components with the Chrysler Cirrus and Dodge Stratus sedan/coupe models, as well as the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Sebring.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants, including internal components, cooling, lubrication, and fuel delivery systems.
Transmission:
Coverage for both automatic and manual transmission systems, including removal, installation, internal component repair, hydraulic control, and torque converter.
Brakes:
In-depth information on hydraulic systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc and drum brake components, parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Complete repair and adjustment procedures for front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications, and wheel balancing.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and onboard diagnostics (OBD-II).
Body And Frame:
Details on body panel repair, structural integrity, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, glass, trim, and corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Detailed steps for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, and general vehicle inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and flowcharts for common and uncommon problems, guiding technicians to identify root causes.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, radiators, and suspension parts.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine rebuilding, including cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and bearing service, and camshaft timing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Instructions for using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic scan tools to identify electrical faults.
Depth:
Full workshop level coverage, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, timing procedures, and electrical schematics.
Engine Options:
2.0L I4 (SOHC) and 2.5L V6 (SOHC).
Engine Code 2 0L:
420A (Mitsubishi origin)
Engine Code 2 5L:
6G73 (Mitsubishi origin)
Horsepower 2 0L:
132 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2 0L:
125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Horsepower 2 5L:
164 hp @ 5700 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2 5L:
170 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5/100)
Transmission Type 2 0L:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type 2 5L:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (41TE)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, with lock-up torque converter.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9602 specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant (consult manual for exact specification).
Length:
194.6 inches (approximate)
Width:
70.9 inches (approximate)
Height:
54.2 inches (approximate)
Curb Weight 2 0L:
3400 - 3500 lbs (approximate)
Curb Weight 2 5L:
3500 - 3650 lbs (approximate)
Trunk Capacity:
8.1 cubic feet (approximate, with top up)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) in frontal crash tests for the JA platform.
ABS:
Standard on most models, including front disc and rear drum or all-disc configurations.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and substantial structural bracing in the body for convertible safety.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, controlled via steering wheel or dashboard stalks.
OBD Ii:
Equipped with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant system for emissions monitoring and fault code retrieval, crucial for troubleshooting covered in the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type used). Consult manual for precise recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmission fluid (ATF+4), or as specified in the manual. Manual transmission fluid is typically a 'lifetime' fill but inspection is recommended.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (platinum or iridium recommended for longer life). Check manual for specific plug type and gap.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 3 years or 50,000 miles thereafter, using the specified coolant type.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature). Refer to owner's manual or workshop manual for precise specification and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or specific power steering fluid meeting Chrysler specifications (consult manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid (confirm specific DOT requirement in manual).
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Potential issues with hydraulic cylinders, latches, and motor for the power convertible top. The manual will detail lubrication and adjustment points.
Head Gasket 2 5L V6:
While not as prevalent as on some other Chrysler engines of the era, head gasket issues can occur on the 2.5L V6, especially with age and mileage. Manual will cover diagnosis and replacement.
Suspension Components:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links is common with age and mileage, leading to steering looseness or noise. The manual details replacement procedures.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators and motors can fail, leading to windows not operating. The manual covers their removal and installation.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance-oriented vehicles and often offered convertible variants across its model lines, emphasizing sporty styling.
Stratus Convertible Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus Convertible was introduced for the 1996 model year, as a convertible version of the successful Stratus sedan and coupe.
Lx Trim:
The 'JX' designation often referred to a specific trim level, typically indicating a well-equipped model.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (part of Chrysler Corporation's manufacturing base).
