Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, emission controls, ignition system, engine management (ECM/PCM) diagnostics and component testing.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (NVG T350) repair, clutch system, linkage, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (41TE) repair, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front wheel drive system, CV joints, drive axles, differential.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link beam axle), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes (depending on trim), ABS system diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear (rack and pinion), fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb types and replacement.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant R134a, components, diagnostics and repair.
Body Interior:
Door mechanisms, glass, seating systems, interior trim, dashboard, headliner.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk, weatherstripping, exterior trim.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and repair, seat belt systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly for all major systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed overhaul procedures for engine mechanical components, including specifications for machining and clearances.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque specifications and component identification.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Extensive wiring diagrams with component locations and circuit descriptions for diagnosing electrical faults.
Suspension Alignment:
Correct procedures and specifications for wheel alignment adjustments.
Brake Service:
Procedures for brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake bleeding.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), system evacuation and charging.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls and detailed electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Mentions necessary specialized tools, diagnostic scan tools (e.g., for OBD-II systems), and common hand tools.
Specifications Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and critical component data.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles for Platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles; change fluid and filter every 60,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect every 30,000 miles; change fluid every 60,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace if cracked or worn.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher, or certified for CD-II).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, OAT or HOAT compatible) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 (Mopar P/N 05010066AA or equivalent)
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Common Problem 2:
Premature wear of front suspension components (strut mounts, control arm bushings) due to average weight and FWD bias.
Common Problem 3:
Transmission issues, particularly with the 41TE automatic, including solenoid failures or torque converter clutch shudder.
Common Problem 4:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to blower speed control issues.
Common Problem 5:
Interior electrical gremlins, such as power window or lock malfunctions, sometimes attributed to body control module (BCM) or wiring harness issues.
Common Problem 6:
Radiator and cooling fan failures can lead to overheating.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing trucks, performance cars, and mainstream vehicles.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Dodge 'new model' initiative.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Chrysler JA platform, which was jointly developed with Mitsubishi, leading to shared components and engineering with models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon.
Design Inspiration:
Its design was heavily influenced by European styling trends of the time, aiming for a more sophisticated appearance.
Production Location:
Built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Model Years:
1995-2000 (First Generation)