Market Segment:
Mid-size convertible sports coupe.
Key Competitors:
Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Toyota Camry Solara Convertible, Pontiac Firebird Convertible.
Unique Selling Points:
Stylish convertible design, comfortable interior, V6 engine options, offering a balance of sportiness and everyday usability for its era.
Covered Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Convertible Top System, Diagnosis, Maintenance
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
2.5L SOHC V6 (16V, 6G73), 2.7L DOHC V6 (24V, 6G73) Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), automatic transmission (42LE) service, diagnosis, and overhaul.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on trim), ABS system diagnosis and service.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, infotainment wiring, body control modules.
Body And Convertible:
Exterior panels, interior trim, convertible top operation, hydraulic system, seals, and latches.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, convertible top motor and cylinder replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, wiring diagrams for fault tracing.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive - covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using diagnostic scan tools (e.g., OBD-II), multimeter usage, and specialized tools.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2497 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
V6, SOHC, 12 Valves
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.44 x 2.73 inches (87.5 x 69.4 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
164 hp @ 6400 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2656 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6, DOHC, 24 Valves
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
3.50 x 2.87 inches (89.0 x 73.0 mm)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.3:1
Engine 2 Horsepower:
200 hp @ 6400 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
191 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
0 60 Mph Acceleration 2.5L:
Approx. 9.0-9.5 seconds
0 60 Mph Acceleration 2.7L:
Approx. 7.5-8.0 seconds
Length:
191.7 inches (4869 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
53.8 inches (1367 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.0 inches (2743 mm)
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Up:
Approx. 10.3 cubic feet
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Down:
Significantly reduced, manual will detail capacity.
Curb Weight 2.5L:
Approx. 3550 lbs (1610 kg)
Curb Weight 2.7L:
Approx. 3650 lbs (1655 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Not readily available for this specific convertible model year and variant.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on certain trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for front and rear occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.7L:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval and procedure).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) - typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler power steering fluid (or Dexron II/III compatible)
Common Wear Items:
Struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, convertible top hydraulic cylinders and pumps.
Engine 2.5L Specifics:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected.
Engine 2.7L Specifics:
Known for issues with timing chain guides and tensioners, which can lead to chain rattle or failure if not addressed.
Transmission 42Le Specifics:
Can develop solenoid issues or torque converter problems with high mileage or poor fluid maintenance.
Convertible Top Issues:
Hydraulic leaks in cylinders or lines, pump failures, sensor malfunctions, and wear on the fabric top material or seals.
Dodge Brand Focus:
Known for performance-oriented vehicles and muscle cars, though also produced practical family cars and trucks.
Stratus Introduction:
The Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the Dodge Spirit and accommodating the new cab-forward design language.
Convertible Variant Introduction:
The Stratus Convertible was a derivative of the sedan, produced by American Specialty Cars (ASC) beginning in 1996.
Production Years:
1995-2000 (Sedan), 1996-2000 (Convertible)
Manufacturing Location:
Stratus sedans were built in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Convertibles were modified by ASC.
