Target Audience:
Dodge Stratus owners seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or diagnostics.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Lumina, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Vehicle Design:
Cab-forward design, aerodynamic styling, spacious interior.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level accuracy and detail for all repair and maintenance procedures, essential for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Transmission:
Automatic Transaxle (e.g., A604, 41TE), clutch system (if applicable), manual transmission (if applicable).
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear disc/drum, ABS).
Body And Frame:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, bumpers, chassis frame components.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, audio system, body control modules (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections, spark plug replacement.
Component Repair:
Engine component overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension arm and bushing replacement, power window motor replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electrical circuit testing, fuel pressure testing.
Disassembly/Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and other critical measurements.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting, including component-level testing and repair.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific 1995 ratings may vary)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific 1995 ratings may vary)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Front seat pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (recommend checking manual for specific interval and fluid type).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent for the specific transmission model, e.g., Dexron III for earlier units).
Head Gasket Leaks:
Some models, particularly those with the 2.5L V6, can be prone to head gasket failures.
Transmission Problems:
Early automatic transmissions (A604/41TE) could experience issues with solenoids, clutch packs, and torque converters if not maintained.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, leading to rattling or poor handling.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors is a relatively common electrical issue.
Heater Core Leaks:
Leaking heater cores can cause coolant loss and fogged windows.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, often positioned as an American performance brand.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and a sibling to the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus.
Platform Sharing:
Part of the Chrysler JA platform, which also underpinned the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus, sharing many components.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Initial Reception:
The Stratus was part of Chrysler's 'cloud cars' (Cirrus, Breeze, Stratus), which were generally well-received for their styling and ride quality upon introduction.
Consumer Reports Historical:
Early models received mixed reviews regarding reliability, with some areas showing better performance than others. The manual provides insights into addressing these.
