Positioning:
Mid-size sedan and coupe offering from Dodge, positioned as an accessible and practical option in its segment.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Oldsmobile Achieva/Cutlass.
Design And Features:
Distinctive cab-forward design, available in sedan and coupe body styles, offered a range of powertrain options to suit different buyer needs.
Diy Savings:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance and repairs themselves, significantly reducing labor costs at dealerships or independent repair shops.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (exact count not provided, described as 'in-depth' and 'full professional quality')
Type:
Service & Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (compatible with PC, MAC, Tablets & Smartphones)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics, engine rebuild procedures.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul; clutch operation (if applicable to specific engine/transmission); transmission control systems; fluid specifications and replacement.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheel and tire service.
Electrical:
12-volt electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), body control modules, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
Body And Trim:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, glass replacement, weatherstripping, body hardware.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, battery maintenance, tire rotation, brake inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for major components and systems, including engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, etc.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system interpretation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using scan tools for diagnosis, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Depth:
Professional-grade, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Digital Format Details:
Likely a PDF or similar document format, optimized for cross-platform viewing and potential printing. Searchable text functionality is highly probable for digital manuals of this caliber.
Print Quality Expectation:
High resolution, clear diagrams, and easily readable text for printing specific sections. Professional quality implies accuracy and detail in illustrations.
Binding Type If Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type If Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
Base Engine 1995-1997:
2.0L (122 cu in) DOHC I4 (420A engine, Mitsubishi origin)
Base Engine 1998-2000:
2.0L (122 cu in) DOHC I4 (420A engine) or 2.4L (147 cu in) DOHC I4 (EDZ engine)
V6 Engine:
2.5L (152 cu in) SOHC V6 (165 hp, 163 lb-ft torque) - standard on ES trim, optional on others.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 132 hp (2.0L I4) to 165 hp (2.5L V6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 120 lb-ft (2.0L I4) to 163 lb-ft (2.5L V6)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for optimal performance in some engines).
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack configuration, depending on engine.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5-Year/100,000 Mile Formula, or equivalent HOAT coolant).
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most engines, check manual for specific application. API Service Category SG or SH, or newer.
Base Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE).
Manual Transmission Availability:
Available on certain engine/trim configurations, typically a 5-speed manual.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled with overdrive, potentially with 'Sport' or 'Economy' modes.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification).
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by transmission and engine, detailed in the manual.
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 107.1 inches (2720 mm).
Length:
Approximately 193.7 inches (4920 mm) for sedan, 192.9 inches (4900 mm) for coupe.
Width:
Approximately 70.9 inches (1800 mm).
Height:
Approximately 56.4 inches (1433 mm) for sedan, 54.7 inches (1390 mm) for coupe.
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 3100 lbs to 3400 lbs (1400 kg to 1550 kg) depending on engine and equipment.
Trunk Capacity:
Sedan: approx. 15.1 cu ft. Coupe: approx. 13.4 cu ft.
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific crash test, generally received mixed ratings. Frontal crash test ratings were often 3-4 stars for driver/passenger. Side impact ratings were typically lower.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard on higher trims, especially with V6 engines.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) available on some models, particularly those with V6 engines.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard across all models. Side airbags were an optional feature on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear three-point seat belts, with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player, premium audio systems with more speakers, and steering wheel audio controls available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard. Optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Oem Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic port, enabling the use of aftermarket scan tools for reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes.
Oil And Filter Change:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium). Manual specifies interval for OE plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect fluid level and condition at regular intervals (e.g., every 30,000 miles), replace as recommended by manual (often around 50,000-100,000 miles or under severe use).
Coolant Flush:
Flush and replace coolant every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent power steering fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system requirements.
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (especially the 41TE/42LE automatic transmissions often experiencing torque converter shudder or solenoid failures), suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), radiator leaks, HVAC blower motor failure, window regulator issues, and occasional electrical gremlins.
Engine Specific Issues:
The 420A (Mitsubishi) engine can be prone to head gasket issues if overheated. The 2.4L EDZ engine is generally robust. V6 engines are generally reliable but can develop intake manifold gasket leaks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, though the Stratus targeted a more mainstream, value-conscious market.
First Generation:
Introduced in 1995 as a successor to the Dodge Spirit. Designed as part of Chrysler's 'cab-forward' architecture, aiming for improved interior space and a modern aesthetic.
Facelift And Updates:
Received a significant refresh for the 2001 model year, but this manual covers the earlier 1995-2000 iteration. Minor updates occurred throughout this period, including powertrain revisions and feature availability changes.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform and many components with the Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus Coupe (initially based on Mitsubishi Eclipse/Talent), and Chrysler Sebring.
Automotive Press:
While specific major awards are not widely cited, the Stratus was considered a competitive offering in the mid-size segment during its production run, often praised for its interior space and value proposition.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied by model year and specific vehicle configuration, with some years indicating average or below-average reliability, particularly concerning the transmission and certain powertrain components.
