Segment:
Mid-size sedan/coupe, competing in a segment with strong offerings from Japanese and American manufacturers.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Platform:
Chrysler JA/JX platform, sharing components with other Chrysler Corporation vehicles of the era (e.g., Plymouth Breeze, Chrysler Cirrus).
Design Philosophy:
Designed with aerodynamic styling and a focus on interior space and comfort for its class.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing system (belt/chain), lubrication, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems (OBD-II), engine diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic Transaxle (4-speed 41TE/42LE), clutch (if manual option existed), gear shifting, torque converter, transmission control.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake components (calipers, rotors, pads, drums, shoes), parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power distribution.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, frame, underbody, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control module.
Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using scan tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing actuator tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all circuits and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth repair and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Techniques:
Detailed OBD-II diagnostic procedures and specific diagnostic trouble code interpretations.
Component Rebuild:
Includes instructions for major component overhauls and rebuilds (e.g., engine, transmission).
Engine Code 1:
2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve), Engine Code: EDZ
Displacement 1:
1996 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 132 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 1:
Approx. 129 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Code 2:
2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve), Engine Code: EDN (or EDZ in some configurations)
Displacement 2:
2370 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack.
Type 1:
4-speed automatic transaxle (41TE / 42LE)
Type 2:
5-speed manual transaxle (less common, primarily on base models or specific trims)
Automatic Control:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission (e.g., utilizing Powertrain Control Module - PCM).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent) or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid as per earlier specifications. Refer to manual for precise specification.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pre-tensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 100,000 miles (using long-life iridium spark plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Every 100,000 miles (using long-life iridium spark plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 to 100,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first) for the 2.0L engine. The 2.4L engine typically uses a timing chain.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 to 60,000 miles or as per severe duty schedule. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended).
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically pink or orange color. 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Transmission Problems:
Intermittent shifting issues, torque converter shudder, and solenoid pack failure are reported common problems for the 41TE/42LE automatic transmission.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts leading to vibration and noise.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends can lead to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Radiator:
Cracked plastic end tanks on the radiator, leading to coolant leaks.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators, causing windows to cease operation.
Manufacturer:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler).
First Generation:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Chrysler LH platform's derivative, the JA platform.
Facelifts:
Received a minor facelift for the 2000 model year, including updated styling and features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Discontinuation:
The Stratus nameplate was eventually replaced by the Dodge Avenger in North America.
