🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Platform:

JA

Vehicle Code:

JC41

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan

Era:

Late 1990s Domestic Sedan Market

Key Competitors:

Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord

Design Philosophy:

Cab-forward design emphasizing interior space and distinctive styling.

Platform Sharing:

Based on Chrysler's JA platform, shared with the Dodge Avenger and Plymouth Breeze.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnosis and repair for all engine control modules, sensors, actuators, and ignition systems.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, lines, tank, and emissions control.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, and hanger replacement.

Driveline Transmission:

Automatic transmission (41TE) overhaul, fluid service, and torque converter replacement. Differential and drive axle service.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment procedures, power steering system.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, repair, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), ABS system troubleshooting.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, battery, charging system, lighting, instruments, power windows, locks, mirrors, horn, wipers/washers.

Body Chassis:

Frame and bumper repair, body panel replacement, door/hood/trunk adjustment, interior trim removal, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant recharge.

Restraints Safety:

Airbag system diagnostics and replacement procedures, seat belt mechanisms.

Instrumentation Controls:

Instrument cluster removal and repair, gauge diagnostics, chimes and buzzer systems, message systems.

Maintenance Schedules:

Detailed routine maintenance intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, spark plugs, and more.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic charts and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive listing of torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical circuits.

Component Identification:

Clear identification of all parts and components within each system.

Diagnostic Codes:

OBD-I and OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and troubleshooting steps.

Depth:

Expert-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Includes information on required diagnostic tools and their usage.

Rebuild Instructions:

Detailed procedures for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L DOHC I4 (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Engine 1 Code:

ECC

Engine 1 Displacement:

1995 cc

Engine 1 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

124 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Engine 2 Code:

EDZ

Engine 2 Displacement:

2429 cc

Engine 2 Horsepower:

145 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

158 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 101.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in manual for 41TE transmission.

Drive Wheels:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.1 inches (4752 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

54.3 inches (1380 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.0 inches (2718 mm)

Passenger Volume:

95.8 cubic feet (2712 L)

Trunk Volume:

14.0 cubic feet (396 L)

Curb Weight:

3170-3250 lbs (1438-1474 kg) - depending on engine and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4200 lbs (1905 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (1997)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (1997)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Front: 3-point, height-adjustable; Rear: 3-point lap and shoulder belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player available.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, operation and servicing detailed.

Telematics:

N/A (basic systems for the era)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (traditional interval for this era).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (severe service) / 60,000 miles (normal service).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4

Common Complaints:

Transmission issues (slipping, delayed engagement, especially with the 41TE), head gasket leaks (particularly with the 2.4L engine), electrical glitches, interior trim wear, occasional suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chrysler Corporation

Introduction Year:

1995 (as part of the Chrysler JA platform launch)

Generation Details:

First generation (1995-1997). The 1997 model year represents the final year of the first generation, which saw minor revisions from its introduction.

Assembly Location:

Jefferson Avenue Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA

Production Span:

1995-1997

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Interior Design Award:

None widely recognized for this specific model year, but praised for cabin space relative to exterior size.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Variable; generally rated average to below average for reliability in its class during its production run.