🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1999

First Generation Code:

JA

Platform:

Chrysler JA Platform (shared with Plymouth Breeze, Chrysler Cirrus)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan (competing with Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord)

Key Competitors:

Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima

Design Philosophy:

Designed as an American interpretation of European styling, offering a balance of comfort, style, and practicality.

Intended Audience:

Families and individuals seeking a comfortable and stylish daily driver.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 1999 Dodge Stratus

Included Sections Summary:

Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Brakes, Cooling System, Electrical Systems (Battery, Starting, Charging, Ignition, Instruments, Audio, Lighting, Wiper/Washer, Restraint), Engine, Exhaust, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Tires & Wheels, Body, HVAC, Emissions Control

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implied extensive coverage)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transaxle, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System

Chassis:

Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Differential and Driveline, Tires and Wheels

Electrical Body:

Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel, Audio Systems, Horns, Cruise Control, Turn Signals, Windshield Wipers/Washers, Lamps, Restraint System, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Distribution, Power Door Locks, Theft Security System, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning Systems

Comfort Convenience:

Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Emissions:

Emission Control Systems

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures for various systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication

Repair:

Component removal, installation, and repair for most vehicle systems

Overhaul:

Potential for engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Wiring:

Extensive wiring diagrams for electrical system troubleshooting

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major repairs and diagnostics, including technical data and diagrams.

Detail Level:

Detailed technical data, part listings, and step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Printable pages available

Type:

Digital (PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDZ)

Engine Option 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDG/EDT)

Engine Option 3:

2.7L SOHC V6 (Engine Code: EAX)

2.0L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 132 hp

2.4L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 150 hp

2.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 170 hp

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Bore Stroke 2.7L V6:

83.0 mm x 81.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio 2.7L V6:

9.3:1 (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE/42LE)

Transmission Option 2:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag A568 - less common)

Automatic Transmission Type:

Electronically Controlled Automatic Transaxle

Automatic Transaxle Fluid:

ATF+4 (formerly ATF+3) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.0 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.4 inches

Curb Weight Est:

3000-3300 lbs (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Side Impact:

Fair (not all configurations tested for all years)

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum (standard); Optional 4-wheel disc brakes

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Upgradable to premium sound systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Features:

Basic connectivity for the era; no integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine and temperature range)

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (especially on earlier 2.7L V6), transmission issues (torque converter shudder, solenoid failures), power window regulator failures, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), ignition coil failures, HVAC blend door actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles from performance cars to family sedans.

Stratus Debut:

The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Chrysler JA platform, replacing the Dodge Spirit.

1999 Update:

The 1999 model year saw minor updates and refinements to the Stratus, carrying over from the previous years of the first generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Competitor Comparisons:

Often reviewed alongside its Chrysler and Plymouth platform mates, praised for styling and value but sometimes criticized for powertrain refinement and build quality compared to Japanese competitors.