🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2002

Market Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Coupe

Platform:

Chrysler JA (Sedan) / JX (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Dodge Stratus was positioned as a family-oriented mid-size sedan and coupe, offering a balance of comfort, space, and affordability within its segment.

Key Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima during its production run.

Design Philosophy:

The Stratus, particularly in its second generation (which includes 2002), emphasized a more aerodynamic and contemporary styling compared to its predecessor, aiming for a more European aesthetic influenced by DaimlerChrysler's acquisition of Mercedes-Benz.

Trim Levels:

Commonly available in SE, ES, and SXT trims, offering varying levels of standard equipment and powertrain options.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L I4 (SOHC), 2.4L I4 (DOHC), 2.7L V6 (DOHC)

Transmission Coverage:

41TE (4-Speed Automatic), NV1500 (5-Speed Manual - less common)

Chassis Systems:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, ABS, Body Structure

Electrical Systems:

Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Body Control Modules (BCM), Lighting, HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Instruments, SRS (Airbag)

Body And Trim:

Interior and Exterior Trim, Doors, Glass, Seating

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 1000-1500 (depending on specific factory publication collation)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Diagnostics:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, exhaust system diagnostics

Drivetrain Repair:

Automatic transmission overhaul and repair, manual transmission servicing, clutch replacement, CV joint inspection and replacement

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), power steering system diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment specifications

Braking System:

Disc brake service (pads, rotors), drum brake servicing (rear, if applicable), hydraulic system diagnosis, ABS component testing and replacement

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, component testing procedures, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, component testing (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), diagnosis of heating and cooling issues

Restraint Systems:

SRS system diagnostics, airbag module replacement, seat belt inspection and repair

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change procedures, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs

Component Replacement:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, alternator, starter motor, fuel pump, ignition coils, sensors

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and system malfunctions

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, and reassembly

Bodywork And Collision Repair:

Panel removal and installation, glass replacement, bumper repair

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and body repair

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Printability:

High-resolution for clear printing of text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Type:

2.0L SOHC I4 (Chrysler 2.0 L)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc (121.8 cu in)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

131 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine 2 Type:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Chrysler 2.4 L)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2429 cc (148.2 cu in)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

156 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard), 168 hp @ 6200 rpm (optional, possibly specific trims/packages)

Engine 2 Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (standard), 174 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (optional)

Engine 3 Type:

2.7L DOHC V6 (Chrysler EER)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2736 cc (167.0 cu in)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

200 hp @ 6400 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

190 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 (minimum) for 2.0L and 2.4L engines, 89 (recommended) for 2.7L V6 engine

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Sedan:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE)

Transmission Type Coupe:

5-Speed Manual (NV1500 - less common)

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled with over drive

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

MS-9224 (75W-90 GL-3 or GL-4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.0 inches (2743 mm)

Length:

193.7 inches (4920 mm) (Sedan)

Width:

70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Height:

56.9 inches (1445 mm) (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg) depending on engine and configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4200-4400 lbs (1905-2000 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.7 cu ft (445 L) (Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Good (2002 model year)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Good (2002 model year)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for some configurations with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard on most trims; optional on lower trims

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions; front seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape player; optional premium Infinity sound system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) with Platinum or Iridium plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L/2.7L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Iridium plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for conventional coolant, or as per Mopar HOAT coolant recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) for 2.0L and 2.4L engines; 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) for 2.7L V6 engine. Check owner's manual for precise capacity.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (recommended for most conditions), 10W-30 (for warmer climates)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Problems Powertrain:

Internal transmission failures (especially 41TE), coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, occasional timing belt wear (2.0L SOHC)

Common Problems Suspension:

Worn front struts, premature wear of front suspension bushings, rear sway bar links

Common Problems Electrical:

Faulty power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster intermittent issues, PCM failure

Common Problems Body:

Door lock actuator failures, water leaks around windshield and door seals

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for performance-oriented vehicles as well as practical family cars.

Stratus Generation:

The 2002 model year belongs to the second generation Stratus (codename JA for sedan, JX for coupe), introduced for the 2001 model year, replacing the original LH-based Stratus.

Platform Sharing:

The JA platform was shared with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze, representing a consolidation of Chrysler's mid-size offerings under the DaimlerChrysler umbrella.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved 'Good' ratings in NHTSA frontal impact tests for driver and passenger, indicating good structural integrity and performance of restraint systems.