🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1997

Generation:

First Generation (JA)

Platform:

Chrysler JA platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Compact to mid-size sedan, competing with models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Lumina. Positioned as a more stylish and engaging alternative.

Competitive Analysis:

The Stratus aimed to capture buyers seeking European styling influences and a comfortable ride, often leveraging Chrysler's engineering expertise. It offered a compelling value proposition within its segment.

Key Features:

Distinctive styling, comfortable interior, available V6 engines, front-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All service and repair procedures for the 1997 Dodge Stratus

Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires, Body (Exterior and Interior), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC System, Safety Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Special Tools

Specific Engine Coverage:

Detailed procedures for the 2.0L 4-cylinder (420A) and 2.5L V6 (6G73) engines, including timing belt service, lubrication system, cooling system components, fuel delivery, ignition system, and emission controls.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, system adjustments, overhaul procedures, electrical system diagnosis, emissions control systems, body repair, interior trim removal/installation, component replacement

Transmission Service:

Complete overhaul, fluid and filter changes, torque converter replacement, diagnostic procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake System Repair:

Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding, ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped).

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including lighting, charging, starting, engine control, HVAC, and accessories. Troubleshooting charts for common electrical faults.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and bodywork procedures)

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed specifications for cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing replacement, valve train overhaul, and engine assembly.

Suspension And Steering:

Procedures for replacing control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, struts, and power steering pump/rack replacement. Includes alignment specifications.

Body And Interior:

Instructions for removing and reinstalling exterior panels, bumpers, doors, windows, mirrors, and interior trim components. Includes basic body repair techniques.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Downloadable Format)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Downloadable Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Liter:

2.0

Engine Cylinders:

4

Engine Code:

420A (Chrysler design, Mitsubishi collaboration)

Engine Horsepower Hp:

132

Engine Torque Lb Ft:

125

Optional Engine Displacement Liter:

2.5

Optional Engine Cylinders:

6

Optional Engine Code:

6G73 (Mitsubishi 6A7 engine family)

Optional Engine Horsepower Hp:

160

Optional Engine Torque Lb Ft:

155

Fuel Delivery System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity Gallons:

15.0

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission Code:

41TE / 42LE (Chrysler family)

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

189.7

Width Inches:

70.4

Height Inches:

55.9

Wheelbase Inches:

106.4

Front Track Inches:

60.6

Rear Track Inches:

60.6

Front Headroom Inches:

39.1

Rear Headroom Inches:

37.5

Front Legroom Inches:

42.2

Rear Legroom Inches:

36.6

Front Shoulder Room Inches:

56.0

Rear Shoulder Room Inches:

55.4

Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

15.0

Curb Weight Lbs Base:

3140

Curb Weight Lbs V6:

3250

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

4100

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:

Acceptable (for models with airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:

Acceptable (for models with airbags)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (Optional)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side-Impact Door Beams, Crumple Zones, Pretensioners for Front Seat Belts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to factory-installed features like cruise control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.

Connectivity Features:

None (pre-dating modern connectivity standards like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend), 5,000 miles or 3 months (conventional)

Air Filter Replacement Interval Miles:

15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:

100,000 miles (platinum or iridium)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF

Known Issues:

Head gasket failures on 2.7L V6 (not applicable to 1997 models, but good to note for the generation), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), electrical connector issues, interior trim fitment problems, AC system leaks, occasional transmission solenoid issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles. The Stratus represented a shift towards a more European-influenced design for the brand.

Model Evolution:

The Dodge Stratus (and its Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus siblings) was part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup, replacing models like the Dodge Spirit and Shadow. It was designed to offer a more upscale and modern experience.

Production Years:

1995-2000 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a consistent award winner, the Stratus was often praised for its styling and ride quality in its segment during its initial release. It was part of Chrysler's revitalization efforts.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction and reliability ratings for the 1997 Stratus varied; typically average for its class, with some common issues contributing to slightly lower reliability scores compared to segment leaders.

Certifications:

Not applicable in the context of automotive awards.