🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Platform:

JA (Chrysler JA platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Stratus was part of Chrysler's 'JA' platform, a mid-size sedan aimed at competing in a crowded segment dominated by Japanese and American manufacturers. It was positioned as a practical, comfortable, and reasonably priced family sedan.

Competitive Analysis:

Competitors included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima. The Stratus sought to differentiate itself through distinctive styling and a focus on European-inspired ride and handling characteristics for its segment.

Key Features:

Available in coupe and sedan body styles. Offered a choice of efficient four-cylinder and potent V6 engines. Known for its spacious interior for its class and comfortable ride quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair, specifications, diagrams.

Page Count:

Extensive (exact number not specified, but typical for factory service manuals covering multiple model years and engines)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel delivery, injection system (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, evaporative emissions (EVAP).

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributorless ignition system (DIS), crank/cam sensors, ignition timing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, transmission overhaul, gears, bearings, seals, shift linkages.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, transmission overhaul, valve body, planetary gears, seals, fluid control.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD), CV axles, constant velocity joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam axle), springs, shock absorbers, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, steering angle sensor (if equipped).

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on trim), brake calipers, master cylinder, power booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb specifications.

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system, compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, controls, cabin air filter.

Body And Trim:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, upholstery, glass replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, ABS diagnostics (if equipped).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.

Diagnostics:

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

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing. Includes clear diagrams and schematics.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L SOHC I4 (Mitsubishi 4G63 / Chrysler design)

Optional Engine 1:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Chrysler EDZ/World Engine)

Optional Engine 2:

2.5L SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi 6G73)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 114-132 hp (depending on year and specific variant)

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 127-137 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant)

Horsepower 2.4L:

Approx. 145-150 hp

Torque 2.4L:

Approx. 151-154 lb-ft

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approx. 164-170 hp

Torque 2.5L V6:

Approx. 170-175 lb-ft

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (A604, A606, or 41TE depending on year/engine)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (Getrag/Chrysler MM5 or NVG565 depending on year/engine)

Transmission Features:

Includes Automatic Transaxle Diagnostic System (ATDS) for the automatic transmissions. Manual transmission models often featured a performance-oriented clutch and gear ratios.

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 193.1 inches

Width Sedan:

Approx. 70.2 inches

Height Sedan:

Approx. 55.7 inches

Wheelbase Sedan:

Approx. 108.0 inches

Front Headroom Sedan:

Approx. 39.3 inches

Front Legroom Sedan:

Approx. 42.1 inches

Rear Headroom Sedan:

Approx. 37.9 inches

Rear Legroom Sedan:

Approx. 36.0 inches

Trunk Capacity Sedan:

Approx. 15.7 cubic feet

Curb Weight Sedan:

Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (varies by engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact Sedan:

4 Stars (1995-1996 models, review specific year)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Sedan:

4 Stars (1995-1996 models, review specific year)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims. Traction control systems became available on later models.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side-impact airbags were optional on some later models. Crumple zones designed for impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Basic digital clock. Upgraded Infinity sound systems were available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control was a common option. ABS and traction control were available on select models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity for the era. Primarily focused on audio systems. No advanced Bluetooth or USB integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

2.0L I4: Approx. 60,000 miles (copper), 100,000 miles (platinum). 2.4L I4: Approx. 100,000 miles. 2.5L V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service classification).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Orange/Hybrid) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification).

Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:

Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) meeting specific GL-4 or GL-5 rating, consult manual for exact spec.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Known Issues:

Transmission issues (especially with early A604 units, like harsh shifting or solenoid failures), oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), EGR valve issues, O2 sensor failures, power steering pump noise, early model dashboard warping/cracking, rear axle seal leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing American performance cars and practical family vehicles. The Stratus represented an effort to modernize the Dodge sedan lineup in the mid-1990s.

Model Evolution:

The Stratus debuted for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit. It was part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup, which also included the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. A coupe version was introduced later. Minor styling updates and powertrain refinements occurred throughout its production run until 2000.

Production Years:

1995-2000

Assembly Locations:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not consistently lauded with major industry awards, the Stratus offered a European-influenced ride and handling for its class. It was generally seen as a competent, if not class-leading, offering in the mid-size sedan market of its time.