Segment:
Mid-size sedan (family car, commuter vehicle).
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima.
Design:
Cab-forward design for spacious interior, aerodynamic styling.
Powertrain:
Offered with reliable and fuel-efficient four-cylinder and V6 engines.
Benefit:
Enables DIY owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving money and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Authenticity:
Provides the same information used by dealership technicians.
Engine:
Complete coverage for engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, and emission control systems.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transaxle maintenance, diagnosis, and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, including hydraulic components, parking brake, and ABS diagnosis.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system components, alignment specifications, and wheel bearing service.
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of battery, charging system, starter, ignition system, lighting, instrument panel, audio systems, and all power accessories.
Body Chassis:
Body and frame repairs, bumpers, doors, glass, interior trim, and exhaust system service.
Heating Ac:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag and seatbelt system information, including service precautions.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and component inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Includes exploded views, diagrams, torque specifications, wiring schematics, and precise step-by-step instructions.
Searchable:
Yes, text-searchable PDF format allows for quick information retrieval.
Quality:
High-resolution scans ensure clarity of text and diagrams; printable pages.
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS.
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (or equivalent unzipping software).
Transmission 1:
4-speed automatic transaxle (Chrysler A604/41TE/42LE)
Transmission 2:
5-speed manual transaxle (Getrag G360 or similar for some engine options, though less common for 1997 Stratus in North America).
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up.
Automatic Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Automatic Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) for a fluid change, higher for a complete overhaul.
NHTSA Side Impact Driver Door:
Good (for 1997 model year testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for 1997 model year testing)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims; Speed control system detailed in manual.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.0L I4: 100,000 miles (160,000 km); 2.4L I4/2.5L V6: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.0L and 2.5L V6 engines: 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. For 2.4L DOHC: 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. (Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (check owner's manual for specific grade based on temperature).
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 04549387) or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially in earlier 41TE/42LE transmissions) leading to harsh shifting or failure to engage gears.
Common Issue 2:
Head gasket leaks, particularly on the 2.0L and 2.5L engines.
Common Issue 3:
Radiator leaks and coolant system component degradation (hoses, water pump).
Common Issue 4:
CV joint wear and failure.
Common Issue 5:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Manufacturer:
Dodge division of Chrysler Corporation.
Platform Origin:
Based on Chrysler's JA platform, shared with Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Span:
1995-2006