Target Audience:
Dodge Stratus owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics, parts distributors
Value Proposition:
Provides essential part identification for repairs and maintenance, aiding in accuracy and efficiency.
Alternatives:
Aftermarket parts catalogs, online parts databases, factory service manuals (often sold separately).
Illustrations:
Exploded views of all major vehicle systems, detailing component relationships.
Part Number Listing:
Comprehensive listing of all OEM part numbers for ordering.
Sectional Organization:
Parts are logically grouped by vehicle system for ease of navigation.
Engine Components:
Cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing system
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, throttle body
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes
Transmission Components:
Automatic transmission internals (gear sets, clutch packs, valve body), manual transmission internals (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Axles, CV joints, driveshaft, differential components
Suspension Components:
Struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, springs, bushings
Steering System:
Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column components
Brake System:
Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake components
Wheel And Tire:
Wheels, lug nuts, wheel bearings
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid, grille, mirrors, glass, seals
Body Interior:
Dashboard components, seats, door panels, trim pieces, carpeting, headliner
Electrical System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, switches, relays, fuses (component identification), wiring harness routing (diagrammatic)
HVAC System:
Heater core, evaporator core, blower motor, A/C compressor, climate controls (component identification)
Fasteners:
Screws, bolts, nuts, clips, washers by type and location
Disassembly:
Identification of parts for removal and sequence
Repair:
Identification of replacement parts required for repair
Assembly:
Identification of parts for reassembly and sequence
Detail Level:
Component-level breakdown with part numbers and illustrations
Diagnostic Support:
Indirect; by identifying correct replacement parts for troubleshooting
Page Count:
Not specified in provided text, but typically 300-800+ pages for a comprehensive parts manual of this era.
File Format:
Likely printed paper format, but digital (PDF) versions are common for resale.
Print Quality:
OEM quality expected, with clear line drawings and legible text.
Binding Type:
Typically bound (spiral or perfect bound) for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, often with a glossy finish for diagrams.
Engine Options:
The 1996 Dodge Stratus was available with two primary engine options: a 2.0L Inline-4 and a 2.5L Mitsubishi V6.
2.0L I4 Horsepower:
Approximately 114-132 hp (depending on specific variant/market)
2.0L I4 Torque:
Approximately 125-131 lb-ft (depending on specific variant/market)
2.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 160-170 hp (depending on specific variant/market)
2.5L V6 Torque:
Approximately 162-177 lb-ft (depending on specific variant/market)
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs and filters generally recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on component type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For the 2.0L engine, timing belt replacement is critical, often around 90,000 miles. The 2.5L V6 uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free for the life of the engine.
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to specific owner's manual for exact recommendation).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's Type A or HOAT coolant (ethylene glycol based, typically green or orange/pink depending on formulation).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (though earlier models might specify ATF+2 or ATF+3; consult manual for correct type based on transmission serial number).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibrations.
Automatic Transmission:
Issues with torque converter clutch (TCC) lock-up, solenoid failures, and occasional jerky shifts.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings leading to noise and steering issues.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Failure of actuators controlling air temperature blend doors, resulting in improper temperature control.
Window Regulators:
Common failure of power window regulators.
