Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan and coupe
Target Audience:
Independent repair shops, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts
Competitors 1998:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Vehicle Design:
Cab-forward design, available in sedan and coupe body styles
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level repair and diagnostic information essential for maintaining and repairing the 1998 Dodge Stratus.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, automatic transmission, manual transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear), wheels and tires
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, restraints system (airbags and seatbelts)
Electrical:
Power distribution, lighting, instruments, audio system, instrument cluster, body control modules, comfort and convenience features
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacements
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake service, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system schematics
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component specifications
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including OBD-II data interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including part clearances and assembly sequences
Special Tools:
Identification of and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs
Engine Code 1:
2.0L SOHC I4 (ES/Base models)
Engine Displacement 1:
1996 cc
Horsepower 1:
132 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 1:
124 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine Code 2:
2.5L SOHC V6 (R/T/Plus models)
Engine Displacement 2:
2497 cc
Horsepower 2:
168 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque 2:
165 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs
Transmission Type Std 2.0L:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (41TE)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Power/Norm modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler specification MS-9602 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver Side:
★★★★ (4-star)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger Side:
★★★ (3-star)
Brakes Front:
Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear:
Drums (standard), Discs (optional on some trims)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point automatic locking retractors; Rear: Three-point and lap belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics)
Engine Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-100,000 miles thereafter (Mopar OAT)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L V6:
Approx. 60,000 miles (copper, consult manual for specific type)
Timing Belt Replacement 2.0L:
At 90,000-105,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check dipstick and manual for conditions)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter for 2.0L; 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.5L V6
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901 or equivalent)
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.0L models)
Common Issue 2:
Automatic transmission solenoid failures or erratic shifting
Common Issue 3:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to non-functional fan speeds
Common Issue 4:
Interior water leaks from windshield seal or door seals
Common Issue 5:
Cracked dashboard due to sun exposure
Ward'S Auto World 10 Best Engines:
The 2.5L V6 engine received this award in 1996.
J.D. Power Initial Quality Study:
Varied performance across model years, consult specific year reports for detailed ratings.
