Segment:
Mid-size sedan/coupe
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, automotive enthusiasts
Competitors:
Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable, spacious interior, comfortable ride, distinctive styling for its time
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-authorized repair and maintenance information essential for accurate vehicle upkeep and troubleshooting.
Engine Variants Covered:
2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4 (Turbocharged option available), 2.5L SOHC V6
Transmission Variants Covered:
4-speed automatic (42LE/45RFE), 5-speed manual (Getrag A578)
Chassis Variants Covered:
Coupe, Sedan
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but typical for factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, and fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, drive axles, CV joints, differential service
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, fluid specifications
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instruments, body controls, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, component diagnosis
Body:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, latches, hinges, body panel repair, sealant specifications
Restraints:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid level checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem resolutions
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, sensor testing
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnosis and body repair
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
Not rated or Poor (depending on specific test and configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
Not rated or Acceptable (depending on specific test and configuration)
IIHS Crashworthiness:
Marginal to Acceptable (depending on specific test and configuration)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on others
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point with pretensioners; 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 (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (check specific engine variant).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years (refer to manual for specific coolant type).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual, typically API certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check viscosity based on ambient temperature).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler spec) or equivalent for 42LE/45RFE transmissions.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., SAE 75W-90).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Head gasket failure (especially on 2.7L V6 not present in 99, but check 2.5L V6 specifics), AC system leaks, transmission solenoid issues, oil pressure sensor failures, window regulator failures, rear main seal leaks.
Electrical Quirks:
Intermittent power window issues, faulty hazard light switches, ECM failures.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and performance-oriented vehicles.
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and the Dodge Dynasty. It was part of Chrysler's 'cab-forward' design era.
1999 Model Year Changes:
The 1999 model year saw minor updates, including revised option packages and potential trim enhancements. The Stratus remained on the JA platform.
Production Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Belvidere, Illinois
Production Years First Gen:
1995-2000