Market Segment:
Compact to mid-size sedan and coupe, targeting value-conscious buyers and families.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima.
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class (especially sedan).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, vehicle-specific information for accurate repairs, saving time and money compared to generic guides.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all gasoline engine variants.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Brakes:
ABS, hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake service.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, power steering.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, rust repair, interior trim, doors, windows, safety restraints.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:
AC system service, heater core, climate control diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan service.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes replacement and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing major and minor components.
Rebuilds And Overhauls:
In-depth instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, sensor testing, module diagnostics.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, adjustments, and settings.
Depth:
Dealer-level comprehensive repair and maintenance data.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Options:
2.0L I4 (Caliber), 2.4L I4 (GT), 2.7L V6 (ES), 3.0L V6 (GT)
Engine Code 2.0L:
EDZ (approx.)
Engine Code 2.4L:
EDT (approx.)
2.0L I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 132 hp @ 5800 rpm
2.4L I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 147 hp @ 5800 rpm
2.7L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 5800 rpm
3.0L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 200 hp @ 5800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (89 Octane for some V6 applications)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star (data varies slightly by year and test)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star (data varies slightly by year and test)
IIHS Side Impact:
Variable, some early models may not have been rated or received lower scores.
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims early on.
Traction Control:
Available on higher trims and V6 models.
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium Infinity sound system.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
I4: 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type); V6: 100,000 miles (premium plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially under severe use.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L I4:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 L)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L V6:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Pink or Orange color
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils, causing misfires and rough running.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Slipping, harsh shifting, or failure to engage gears, often due to fluid degradation or internal wear.
Suspension Components:
Premature wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or noisy power steering pumps.
Dodge Positioning:
Positioned as Dodge's mainstream compact/mid-size offering, often focusing on sporty styling and value.
Generation Introduction:
First generation (JA sedan) introduced for the 1993 model year. Second generation (JR coupe) and updated JA sedan launched for 2000 model year.
Design Change:
The 2001-2006 Stratus represents the second generation, featuring a more aggressive styling (especially the coupe) and updated powertrains.
Assembly Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Jd Power Initial Quality Study:
While specific rankings vary by year, the Stratus generally performed as a competitive entry in its segment for initial quality during this period.
Kellogg On Wheels Rating:
The manual itself is not rated, but its accuracy and comprehensiveness are assessed based on its utility for vehicle maintenance and repair.
Industry Standard Compliance:
Adheres to industry standards for automotive repair documentation, ensuring clarity and precision.