🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1998

Platform:

JA (Chrysler JA platform)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Key Competitors:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima

Differentiation:

Offered a stylish European-inspired design (Chrysler's LH platform influence) at a competitive price point, often featuring an optional V6 engine for enhanced performance.

Design Philosophy:

Cab-forward design, contributing to a spacious interior and aerodynamic profile.

Trim Levels:

Typically offered in SE and SLT trims, with varying levels of standard equipment and powertrain options.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format)

Licensed Status:

Officially Licensed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Detailed repair and diagnostics for all powertrain configurations, including engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, and emissions.

Transmission Service:

Comprehensive coverage for automatic transmission (e.g., 42LE) operation, overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.

Brake System:

Includes front and rear brake component service, hydraulic system diagnostics, ABS operation, and replacement procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Coverage of front and rear suspension components, power steering system, alignment specifications, and wheel bearing service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Extensive diagrams and troubleshooting guides for all electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, charging, starting, body controls, and instrument cluster.

HVAC System:

Service and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.

Body And Frame:

Information on body panel removal/installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, and basic frame alignment concepts.

Fuel System:

Details on fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system diagnostics.

Exhaust System:

Service information for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emissions control components.

Preventative Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspection schedules.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing major and minor vehicle components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Explanation of OBD-II codes and diagnostic strategies.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Proprietary software or PDF archive

Searchability:

Likely includes keyword search functionality for efficient information retrieval.

Output Type:

Printable pages

Binding Method:

N/A (Software/Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Software/Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EDZ (2.4L I4)

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (148 cubic inches)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Bore X Stroke:

3.44 in x 3.98 in (87.4 mm x 101 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 RPM

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM

Optional Engine:

Chrysler ECH (2.5L V6)

Optional Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (151 cubic inches)

Optional Engine Configuration:

V6, SOHC

Optional Engine Horsepower:

160 hp @ 5600 RPM

Optional Engine Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane Minimum

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Emission Control:

Three-way catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic

Transmission Model:

42LE (for both 2.4L and 2.5L engines)

Gear Ratios First:

2.80

Gear Ratios Second:

1.51

Gear Ratios Third:

1.00

Gear Ratios Reverse:

2.00

Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (or equivalent Mopar spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

193.0 inches (4,902 mm)

Width:

70.3 inches (1,786 mm)

Height:

54.8 inches (1,392 mm)

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2,870 mm)

Front Track:

61.2 inches (1,554 mm)

Rear Track:

61.0 inches (1,550 mm)

Front Headroom:

39.8 inches (1,011 mm)

Rear Headroom:

38.0 inches (965 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.0 inches (1,067 mm)

Rear Legroom:

37.4 inches (950 mm)

Trunk Volume:

15.7 cubic feet (0.44 cubic meters)

Curb Weight Base:

3,300 lbs (1,497 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4,400 lbs (1,996 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (varies by year and equipment)

ABS:

Standard or optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) depending on trim and options.

Traction Control:

Optional on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts, with driver pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard in 1998, typically relied on seat belt installation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim.

Keyless Entry:

Optional remote keyless entry system.

OBD Ii Port:

Standard OBD-II diagnostic port located under the dashboard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation for the era).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (Platinum tipped plugs may have longer intervals).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Spec:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific engine recommendation).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.4L; 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) for 2.5L V6.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+3.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Common Faults:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.7L V6, though less common on 1998 models with 2.4L/2.5L), transmission solenoid issues, power window regulator failures, starter motor failure, and occasional HVAC blend door actuator problems.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joint and tie rod end wear can occur with mileage.

Electrical Quirks:

Corroded ground points, intermittent instrument cluster function.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Chrysler Corporation, later DaimlerChrysler.

Introduction Year:

1995

Generation:

First Generation (1995-2005)

Platform Sharing:

Shared the Chrysler JA platform with the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring Coupe, as well as the Sebring Sedan.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Span:

1995-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Ratings:

Mixed to average ratings from consumer publications of the era, often praised for styling and value but criticized for some build quality aspects.