🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Platform:

JA (Chrysler LH platform derivative)

Generation Code:

First Generation (JA)

Vin Code:

12th digit denotes model year (e.g., R for 1994, S for 1995, T for 1996, V for 1997, W for 1998, X for 1999, Y for 2000)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan and Coupe (Ne AVLNode/Chrysler Sebring platform sibling).

Competitors:

Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata.

Design:

Cab-forward design, aerodynamic styling, spacious interior for its class.

Powertrain Options:

Choice of economical 4-cylinder engines and a smoother V6 option.

Body Styles:

Offered as a 4-door sedan and a 2-door coupe (from 1998 onwards).

Demographic:

Families, commuters, and budget-conscious buyers seeking comfortable and practical transportation.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive coverage for all Dodge Stratus models from 1995-2000, including sedan and coupe body styles. Covers routine maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and specifications for all major vehicle systems.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Authorized Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.0L I4, 2.4L I4 DOHC Turbo, 2.5L V6 SOHC), Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System.

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmissions (e.g., 41TE, 42LE), Clutch System (for manual transmission models, if applicable in specific markets, though less common for Stratus), Drivetrain (CV joints, axles).

Chassis:

Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), Steering System (power assisted rack-and-pinion), Brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), Wheels and Tires.

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System (alternator), Starting System (starter motor), Lighting System, Gauges and Instruments, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Fuses and Relays.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), safety restraints (airbags, seat belts).

Electronics And Diagnostics:

Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Wiring Diagrams.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain service, component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, fuel injectors).

Transmission Repair:

Fluid and filter changes, seal replacement, torque converter service, complete transmission overhaul and rebuilding procedures.

Suspension And Steering:

Strut replacement, shock absorber replacement, control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack replacement.

Brake Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS system diagnostics and repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting shorts, open circuits, and ground faults. Component testing and replacement. Wiring harness repair. Diagnosis of lighting, power accessory, and instrument cluster issues.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), blend door actuator replacement.

Bodywork And Collision Repair:

Panel alignment, door and hinge repair, bumper replacement, glass replacement (windshield, windows), cosmetic repairs.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, misfires, no-starts, and system malfunctions. Use of scan tools for retrieving DTCs and live data.

Depth:

Expert Level - Covers complete vehicle overhaul, from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilding. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams.

Scalability:

Scalable vector graphics for diagrams and illustrations ensure clarity when zooming.

Digital Access:

Instant download access after purchase.

Digital Readability:

Optimized for viewing on computers, tablets, and smartphones.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

2.0L I4 (Sohc):

Displacement: 1996 cc (122 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 87.5 x 83.0 mm, Compression Ratio: 9.4:1, Horsepower: 114 hp @ 5500 rpm, Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm, Engine Code: FOMOCO (Ford engine supplied under an agreement).

2.4L I4 DOHc (Turbo):

Displacement: 2378 cc (145 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 87.5 x 98.3 mm, Compression Ratio: 8.1:1, Horsepower: 168 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 190 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm, Engine Code: EDZ (Chrysler engine), often referred to as the 'World Engine' base.

2.5L V6 (Sohc):

Displacement: 2497 cc (152 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 84.5 x 73.3 mm, Compression Ratio: 9.0:1, Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5800 rpm, Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm, Engine Code: EGJ/EJQ (Mitsubishi 6G73 engine).

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Varies by engine and transmission, typically 8.5-10.5 seconds.

Fuel Economy Mpg City Hwy:

Varies by engine and transmission, generally 19-24 MPG city / 27-32 MPG highway.

Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, 89+ for optimal performance with turbo).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle.

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (less common in US market, more prevalent in certain international markets or specific trims).

Automatic Control:

Electronically controlled with adaptive shift logic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification for earlier models).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: approx. 193.9 inches (4925 mm), Coupe: approx. 187.1 inches (4752 mm)

Width:

Sedan: approx. 70.4 inches (1788 mm), Coupe: approx. 70.6 inches (1793 mm)

Height:

Sedan: approx. 55.6 inches (1412 mm), Coupe: approx. 53.9 inches (1369 mm)

Wheelbase:

Sedan: 112.1 inches (2847 mm), Coupe: 107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 100+ cubic feet.

Trunk Volume:

Sedan: approx. 15.7 cubic feet, Coupe: approx. 13.2 cubic feet.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (1361-1542 kg) depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 4000-4400 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Not rated for towing.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4-star (1996-1997 models).

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4-star (1996-1997 models).

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable/Good depending on year and equipment.

ABS:

Standard on most trims, optional on base models (4-wheel disc brakes available on higher trims).

Traction Control:

Optional on some models.

Airbags:

Dual front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Front pretensioner seat belts, rear 3-point seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard until later model years (check specific year).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player, optional premium sound system.

Display:

Basic digital or analog displays for climate control and radio.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Anti Theft:

Factory immobilizer system.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard, aftermarket solutions may be available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Copper plugs: 30,000 miles. Platinum plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles (check spec).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), or every 2-3 years.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For 2.0L (FOMOCO) and 2.5L V6 (Mitsubishi), check manual. Typically 60,000-90,000 miles. For 2.4L DOHC, it is a timing chain.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature and engine).

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol) - HOAT type or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4.

Cv Axles:

Premature wear and tear of front Constant Velocity (CV) axle boots, leading to joint failure.

Transmission Failure:

Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, leading to shifting issues or failure to engage gears. Torque converter shudder.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can cause excessive vibration and noise.

Suspension Components:

Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts.

Heating System:

Blend door actuators for HVAC system can fail, affecting temperature control and air direction.

Electrical Gremlins:

Intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, or instrument cluster due to poor grounds or connector issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Marque:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler).

Introduction:

Introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cab-forward' design revolution.

Redesign:

Minor styling updates and feature additions throughout its run. A 2-door coupe version was introduced for the 1998 model year, based on the Sebring coupe.

Platform Sharing:

Shared its platform with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze (JA platform).

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.

Production End:

Production ended for the 2000 model year. Replaced by the second-generation Dodge Stratus (PG platform).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Received respectable safety ratings for its era, particularly in frontal impacts.

Consumer Reports:

Mixed reviews regarding reliability and long-term durability compared to Japanese competitors.

Emission Standards:

Meets EPA emission standards for the model years.