The Stratus/Breeze/Cirrus family occupied the popular mid-size sedan segment, competing with models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Key competitors for the 2000 model year included the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima, and Mitsubishi Galant.
Key Features
Value Proposition:
Offered a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a choice of efficient and powerful engines, often at a competitive price point.
Design Language:
Continuation of the cab-forward design language characteristic of Chrysler's products in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Scope:
Comprehensive Parts Catalog for all components of the 2000 Chrysler/Dodge Stratus, Plymouth Breeze, and Chrysler Cirrus.
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Varies based on print output, but designed to be a complete catalog.
Battery tray and cables, sensors, wiring harness components, lighting components.
Procedures Included
Lookup Procedures:
Detailed part number lookup based on vehicle configuration and component.
Identification Procedures:
VIN Plate Decoding Information.
Technical Depth
Detail Level:
Component-level part identification and numbering, essential for parts ordering and inventory.
Illustration Quality:
Detailed illustrations and exploded views for accurate part identification.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF, depending on original document creation.
Print Quality
Resolution:
High resolution for clear viewing and printing of illustrations and text.
Scaling:
Viewable and zoomable on any computer.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 1:
ECB
Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Configuration 1:
Inline 4-cylinder
Fuel System 1:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Secondary Engine
Engine Code 2:
EDZ
Displacement 2:
2.4 Liters (2429 cc)
Configuration 2:
Inline 4-cylinder
Fuel System 2:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Tertiary Engine
Engine Code 3:
EEB
Displacement 3:
2.5 Liters (2499 cc)
Configuration 3:
60-degree V6
Fuel System 3:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Performance
Horsepower Approx 2.0L:
132 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Approx 2.0L:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower Approx 2.4L:
150 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque Approx 2.4L:
167 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Horsepower Approx 2.5L V6:
160 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque Approx 2.5L V6:
170 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Type 2.0L And 2.4L:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (41TE/42LE)
Optional Transmission
Type 2.5L V6:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (42LE)
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with auto-stick functionality on some models.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
4-Door Sedan
Wheelbase:
107.1 inches (approx.)
Length:
193.8 inches (approx.)
Width:
71.7 inches (approx.)
Height:
57.1 inches (approx.)
Weights
Gvwr:
Not explicitly provided, but typically in the range of 4,000 - 4,500 lbs for this class.
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and trim, generally around 3,200 - 3,500 lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Restraint System
Airbags:
Active Driver and Passenger Air Bags (CGW Except LH).
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for both driver and passenger in frontal crash tests, though specific ratings can vary slightly).
IIHS Ratings:
Generally rated acceptable or good in frontal offset tests for the generation.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, some models may have premium Infinity sound systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were widely available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific owner's manual for exact details).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect regularly, fluid change recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs generally last 60,000-100,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (refer to owner's manual for exact specification and capacity).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (typically purple).
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
The 2.7L V6 engine (though not explicitly listed for 2000, often associated with the platform) was prone to head gasket failures. The listed engines (2.0L, 2.4L, 2.5L V6) are generally more reliable in this regard, but proper maintenance is key.
Transmission Issues:
Some transmissions could experience harsh shifting or solenoid issues if not properly maintained.
Suspension Wear:
Like many vehicles of this era, front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) and wheel bearings can wear over time.
Ac System:
Compressor clutch or evaporator leaks can be common issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler's history in the mid-size segment dates back to models like the Chrysler LeBaron and New Yorker, aiming for comfort and distinctive styling.
Model Evolution
Generation Ja:
This 2000 model is part of the second generation of the Chrysler JA platform, which also underpinned the Dodge Stratus and Plymouth Breeze. It represented a refinement of the original design with updated styling and features.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years Ja Platform:
1995-2000 (with the final year of the original JA platform being 2000).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reviews:
Received mixed reviews at launch, with praise for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but criticism sometimes directed at engine refinement and build quality compared to Japanese competitors.