Positioning:
The Dodge Stratus was a mid-size sedan and coupe (as part of the Chrysler JA platform) aimed at the mainstream market, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus.
Competition:
Offered a balance of comfort, styling, and a range of engine options, though often perceived as less refined than some Japanese rivals.
Vehicle Appeal:
Known for its distinctive cab-forward styling (especially early models) and availability of powerful V6 engines. The manual covers the critical years of its primary production run.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission
Chassis:
Brake System, Steering System, Suspension System (Front and Rear), Wheel Alignment, Tires and Wheels
Electrical:
Body Electrical Systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Airbag System (SRS), Security System
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Frame and Unit Body Construction, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Interpretation
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Specifications And Data:
Torque Specifications, Component Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics, Wiring Diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and repair instructions for all major systems.
Engine Options:
2.0L I4 (SOHC), 2.4L I4 (DOHC - optional, including high-output 'World Engine'), 2.5L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G73 SOHC)
2.0L I4 Horsepower:
Approximately 132 hp
2.4L I4 Horsepower:
Approximately 145-156 hp (depending on variant)
2.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 164-170 hp
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 108.0 inches (2743 mm)
Length:
Approximately 193.7 inches (4920 mm) for sedan, 187.8 inches (4770 mm) for coupe.
Width:
Approximately 70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Height:
Approximately 55.8 inches (1417 mm) for sedan, 53.8 inches (1367 mm) for coupe.
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and trim, generally 3200-3500 lbs (1450-1590 kg).
NHTSA Front Crash:
Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' for driver and passenger in front impacts during the period.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette and optional CD players. Basic speaker systems.
Navigation:
No factory navigation systems offered during this period.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control systems.
Bluetooth Phone:
Not available from the factory.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were available depending on trim level.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact intervals based on oil specification.
Spark Plugs:
Intervals vary by engine and plug type (e.g., platinum plugs can last 60,000-100,000 miles).
Timing Belt Or Chain:
2.0L I4 and 2.5L V6 typically use timing belts requiring replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles. 2.4L 'World Engine' uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil:
API certified oil, viscosity SAE 5W-30 is common, though manual should be consulted for specific engine recommendations.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT or HOAT type, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid At:
ATF+4 (or equivalent specification for the specific transmission model, e.g., ATF+3 for earlier transmissions).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Minor:
Head gasket failures on some 2.7L V6 models (though not as prevalent on the 2.5L V6), oil leaks, ignition coil issues.
Transmission Common:
Automatic transmission internal failures, particularly with the early A604 transaxle. Torque converter shudder.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Electrical Quirks:
Power window motor failures, central locking issues, dashboard indicator lights malfunctioning.
HVAC Problems:
Blend door actuator failures, blower motor resistor issues, refrigerant leaks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, as part of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a history of producing a range of vehicles from performance cars to family sedans.
Stratus Generations:
The Dodge Stratus (and its Plymouth sibling, the Breeze) was part of the Chrysler JA platform, introduced in 1995 as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim. It was later facelifted and became part of the broader 'cloud car' family (Cirrus, Breeze, Stratus).
Assembly Locations:
Primarily assembled in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Span:
1995-2006 (with coupe variant until 2000).
