🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2000

Market Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Coupe

Platform:

Chrysler JA (coupe) / JR (sedan)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Stratus was positioned as a stylish and affordable mid-size vehicle, aiming to compete with established players in the segment by offering a balance of performance, comfort, and value.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima.

Design Language:

The Stratus featured a distinctive cab-forward design, a hallmark of Chrysler's products from the era, offering spacious interiors and a modern aesthetic for its time.

Powertrain Options:

Offered a range of four-cylinder and V6 engines, catering to different performance and economy preferences.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L I4 (SOHC), 2.4L I4 (DOHC, DOHC Turbo), 2.5L V6 (MPI)

Transmission Coverage:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE), 5-speed Manual

Body Styles Covered:

4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe

Trim Levels Covered:

All

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators), transmission (manual and automatic), driveline (axles, CV joints).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column), brakes (front and rear, ABS, parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, wipers, horn, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, HVAC controls, airbags.

Body:

Body construction, exterior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system components, body seals.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit diagnosis, testing of individual components.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, component removal and installation, torque specifications, alignment procedures, system bleeding (brakes, cooling).

Rebuilding:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, cylinder head repair, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Paper Quality:

High-quality, durable paper stock suitable for shop environments.

Print Quality:

Sharp, clear text and diagrams for easy readability.

Binding Type:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use on a workbench.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

87.6 mm x 82.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.8:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

124 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

131 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2351 cc

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 3:

2.4L DOHC Turbo I4 (16-valve)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

168 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 4:

2.5L MPI V6 (24-valve)

Engine 4 Displacement:

2492 cc

Engine 4 Horsepower:

156 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine 4 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (2.0L, 2.4L), 89 Octane Unleaded Recommended (2.5L V6, 2.4L Turbo).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Sedan:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Transmission Type Coupe:

5-speed Manual (Getrag)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive with lock-up torque converter.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler specification, formerly ATF+3/Mopar ATF+2)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.0 inches (2743 mm)

Length Sedan:

193.1 inches (4905 mm)

Length Coupe:

193.1 inches (4905 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height Sedan:

55.8 inches (1417 mm)

Height Coupe:

55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 100 cu ft (combined sedan/coupe)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

15.0 cu ft

Trunk Volume Coupe:

13.1 cu ft

Curb Weight Sedan Base:

Approx. 3150 lbs (1429 kg)

Curb Weight Coupe Base:

Approx. 3050 lbs (1383 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4100-4300 lbs (depending on configuration)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Wheel Size Standard:

15 inch steel or alloy

Wheel Size Optional:

16 inch alloy

Tire Size Standard:

P205/60R15

Tire Size Optional:

P205/55R16 or P215/55R16

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for models with airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for models with airbags)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Acceptable (variable by year and equipment)

ABS:

Optional or standard depending on trim level and engine.

Traction Control:

Optional on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models. Optional side airbags on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point, rear 3-point with center lap belt.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium Infinity sound system.

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for all major systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Analog audio inputs for aftermarket devices if equipped with CD player.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend oil. Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months with conventional oil or severe driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with platinum-tip plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tip plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid inspection at 30,000 miles, change as needed.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), API Certified.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Type 1 Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4.

Common Problems 1:

Head gasket failures, particularly on the 2.7L V6 (though not standard on 2000 models, the 2.5L V6 and 2.4L can also exhibit issues). Coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater core.

Common Problems 2:

Automatic transmission solenoid issues or premature wear, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. Transmission fluid must be maintained and the correct type used.

Common Problems 3:

Power window regulator failures, interior trim wear, and occasional electrical gremlins (e.g., interior lights, radio).

Common Problems 4:

CV joint and axle wear, particularly if boots are damaged. Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to typical mid-size sedan usage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Context:

Dodge, as part of Chrysler Corporation, aimed to offer vehicles with American styling and performance, often with a sporty or aggressive edge compared to its sibling brands.

Stratus Generation:

The 2000 Stratus is part of the first generation (1995-2000) of the Dodge Stratus. It was marketed alongside the Chrysler Cirrus (sedan) and Sebring Coupe. The coupe variant shared its platform and styling cues with the Dodge Avenger.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Years First Gen:

1995-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Major Awards:

While the Stratus did not win major prestigious awards like some competitors, it was generally considered a competitive offering in its segment for its price point and styling, contributing to Dodge's market presence.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Varied by year and specific configuration; often rated average to below average for reliability in the early years of the generation.

Epa Fuel Economy Est City:

Approx. 22-24 MPG (2.0L/2.4L I4)

Epa Fuel Economy Est Highway:

Approx. 28-32 MPG (2.0L/2.4L I4)