🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Model Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Platform:

Chrysler JA platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Competitors:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.

Styling:

Distinctive cab-forward design, aerodynamic profile.

Powertrain Options:

Choice of reliable and fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines or a smoother V6 option.

Interior Comfort:

Spacious interior for its class, comfortable seating, user-friendly dashboard layout.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair procedures for all aspects of the Dodge Stratus from 1995-2000.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.0L I4, 2.4L I4 DOHC, 2.5L V6 SOHC), Transmission (4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual), Drivetrain (Front-wheel drive).

Chassis:

Suspension (front struts, rear independent multi-link), Brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), Steering (rack and pinion), Wheels and Tires.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, power accessories, climate control electronics.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, upholstery, dashboard, HVAC system, safety restraints.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, lubrication, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission service and repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair, exhaust system repair, cooling system repair, fuel system repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common issue identification and resolution.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution scans with clear diagrams and text. Searchable content.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Description:

2.0L SOHC I4 (2.0L I4)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc (121.8 ci)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

114-132 hp (depending on year/specific variant)

Engine 1 Torque:

122-137 lb-ft (depending on year/specific variant)

Engine 2 Description:

2.4L DOHC I4 (2.4L DOHC)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2378 cc (145.1 ci)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp

Engine 2 Torque:

160 lb-ft

Engine 3 Description:

2.5L SOHC V6 (2.5L SOHC V6)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2498 cc (152.4 ci)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

164 hp

Engine 3 Torque:

170 lb-ft

0 60 Mph:

Varies by engine and transmission, typically 8-10 seconds for 4-cyl, 7-8 seconds for V6.

Induction:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4-cyl, 89 octane recommended for V6)

4 Cyl Engine Code Examples:

EJ7 (2.0L), ENR (2.4L)

V6 Engine Code Examples:

ECL (2.5L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE)

Transmission 2 Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag A578)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602) or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 193.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.3 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.7 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 98-100 cubic feet

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.1 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4-star (1996 models, tested)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4-star (1996 models, tested)

ABS:

Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims later in production.

Traction Control:

Optional

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options. Optional Infinity speaker system.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 5 years or 100,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement 4 Cyl:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium recommended).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity 4 Cyl:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or newer)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent

Common Problem 1:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.4L DOHC engines).

Common Problem 2:

Automatic transmission solenoid issues (shifting problems).

Common Problem 3:

Power window regulator failures.

Common Problem 4:

Suspension component wear (e.g., control arm bushings, tie rod ends).

Common Problem 5:

Oil filter adapter housing leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Corporation

Generation 1:

First generation (1995-2005). Launched as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim. Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze.

Manufacturing Locations:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

Production Years:

1995-2006 (Stratus nameplate)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Rating:

Varies, often rated average to below average for reliability during its production run, particularly concerning early model years.