🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

JA (coupe), JR (sedan/coupe)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan/coupe (historically based on the Chrysler LH platform for earlier generations, later on the PL platform)

Competitors:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Pontiac Grand Prix

Platform:

Chrysler PL platform (shared with Dodge Intrepid, Chrysler Concorde/LHS/New Yorker in spirit, but distinct underpinnings)

Body Styles:

4-door sedan and 2-door coupe

Target Demographic:

Families and individuals seeking a comfortable, reasonably priced, and stylish American-made vehicle

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All Stratus models, including SE, ES, and R/T trims

Covered Engines:

2.0L I4 (420A), 2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ), 2.7L DOHC V6 (EER), 3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72)

Covered Transmissions:

42LE (4-speed automatic), NV1500 (5-speed manual - less common)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, and engine control systems

Transmission Service:

Automatic and manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures

Drivetrain Service:

Front-wheel drive axle shafts, differentials, and related components

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, and wheel alignment

Brakes Service:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS components, hydraulic lines, and parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, starting, charging, lighting, ignition, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, and comfort controls

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, frame components, and exhaust system

HVAC Service:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Information on using diagnostic tools, reading trouble codes (DTCs), and performing system tests

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all vehicle systems

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Name:

2.0L SOHC I4 (420A)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc (121.8 cu in)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

124 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Name:

2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2378 cc (145.1 cu in)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5900 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 3 Name:

2.7L DOHC V6 (EER)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2736 cc (167.0 cu in)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

200 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Engine 4 Name:

3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72 - Mitsubishi Engine)

Engine 4 Displacement:

2972 cc (181.4 cu in)

Engine 4 Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 4 Torque:

185 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Varies by engine, typically 7-10 seconds for V6 models

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 15.0 gallons

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

42LE 4-speed automatic transmission (most common)

Optional Transmission:

NV1500 5-speed manual transmission (less common, typically with 2.0L engine)

Transmission Control:

Electronic controls with adaptive shifting logic

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

109.0 inches

Overall Length:

193.7 inches

Overall Width:

71.7 inches

Overall Height:

56.9 inches (sedan), 55.6 inches (coupe)

Front Headroom:

39.1 inches

Rear Headroom:

37.7 inches

Front Legroom:

43.4 inches

Rear Legroom:

36.9 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 95-100 cu ft

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 15.7 cu ft

Curb Weight:

3200-3500 lbs (varies by engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 stars (driver/passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4/5 stars (front/rear passenger) - may vary by specific model configuration tested.

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on base trims

Traction Control:

Optional, typically available with V6 engines

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags; optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player; optional Infinity premium audio system.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems available.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine: ~30,000 miles for standard plugs, ~100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years

Engine Oil Specification:

API certified, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine requirements and temperature ranges)

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Approved HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar brand

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 or specific power steering fluid (verify with manual)

Common Issues Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially on 2.7L V6), oil leaks, timing belt issues (on 2.0L SOHC), EGR valve clogging.

Common Issues Transmission:

Slipping, rough shifting, transmission fluid leaks, premature failure of the 42LE automatic transmission.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; strut/shock absorber failure.

Common Issues Electrical:

Faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, instrument cluster problems, and issues with the Body Control Module (BCM).

Common Issues HVAC:

Blend door actuator failure, A/C compressor issues, refrigerant leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing robust and performance-oriented vehicles since its founding in 1914.

Stratus Generation:

This 2002 model belongs to the second generation of the Dodge Stratus (1995-2006). It was initially introduced as part of the Chrysler JA platform (sedan) and later expanded to the JR platform which also underpinned the coupe version.

Coupe Development:

The coupe variant was designed by the same team as the sedan but featured a distinct body style, sharing fewer exterior panels. It was marketed as a sportier alternative.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reception:

The Dodge Stratus received mixed reviews during its production run. While praised for its comfortable ride and stylish (especially coupe) design, it faced criticism for some reliability concerns and less engaging driving dynamics compared to some competitors.