Segment:
Mid-size Sedan (Family Sedan)
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Design Philosophy:
Designed to offer a comfortable and spacious interior with a focus on value for money and practicality.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with economical four-cylinder engines, targeting mainstream buyers.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L, 2.4L DOHC), Transmission (Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Charging System, Starting System, Body Control Modules
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Doors, Body Sealing
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnosis
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement
Calibration:
Wheel Alignment Specifications, Steering Alignment Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
Engine 1:
2.0L SOHC Inline-4 (Mitsubishi 4G63 variant)
Engine 1 Displacement:
1997 cc (122 cu in)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
114 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Engine 2:
2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (Chrysler World Engine)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2429 cc (148 cu in)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
145 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
154 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent (e.g., Zerex G-05)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 Quarts (7.6 - 8.5 Liters)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (Chrysler 41TE/42LE variants)
Type:
None (Manual transmission was not typically offered on North American Stratus models of this generation)
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar equivalent recommended for optimal performance and longevity)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 Quarts (7.1 - 8.0 Liters) (Dry fill)
Length:
Approx. 193.4 inches (4913 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.0 inches (2743 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,150 lbs (1882 kg)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1998 models)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1998 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, which were less common in 1998)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels
Traction Control:
Not widely available on base models, but potentially on higher trims or optional.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard)
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in all seating positions, Pretensioners for front seats
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (refer to manual for exact type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or as recommended by the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III equivalent
Common Problems:
Issues can include intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump failure, transmission control module (TCM) issues, and interior trim wear. Suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) can also wear over time.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulators, power lock actuators, and dashboard warning lights can be intermittent failures.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, as part of Chrysler, has a long history in producing American sedans and family vehicles, known for a range of performance and value-oriented models.
Generation Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced in 1995 for the 1996 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Spirit and Chrysler LeBaron sedan. It was part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup.
1998 Updates:
The 1998 model year saw minor revisions, often focusing on feature packaging and option availability. The core platform and powertrain remained largely consistent with earlier models.
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1995-2006 (for the first generation, with facelifts and platform sharing)
Jdpowers Ratings:
JD Power and Associates rankings for the Stratus in the mid-size segment varied in its early years, often placing below segment leaders for initial quality and long-term dependability.
Consumer Reports Reputation:
Consumer Reports often flagged certain reliability concerns with Chrysler products of this era, particularly regarding the transmission and certain engine components. However, specific ratings can vary by model year and engine.
