🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

1999

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Stratus was positioned as a compact to mid-size sedan and coupe (for the coupe variant) in Chrysler's lineup, competing in a segment with vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Contour. It was marketed as a stylish and affordable option.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Contour, Chevrolet Malibu, and Nissan Altima. The Stratus aimed to differentiate itself with its styling and value proposition.

Features:

Available in sedan and coupe body styles. Offered a range of engine options from economical four-cylinders to a more powerful V6. Features typically included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and optional ABS. The design was a departure from previous Dodge sedans, aiming for a more European flair.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for the 1999 Dodge Stratus.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.0L SOHC I4 (97 hp), 2.4L DOHC I4 (150 hp), 2.5L SOHC V6 (168 hp)

Transmission:

42LE Automatic Transmission

Brakes:

Front disc, Rear drum (standard), Front and rear disc (optional, depending on trim/engine)

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link independent suspension

Steering:

Power-assisted rack and pinion

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, body control modules.

Body:

Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, seats, body panels, corrosion protection.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt mechanisms.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission service, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specific symptom-based diagnostics for engine, transmission, and electrical systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, diagnostic parameters.

Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Engine Mechanics:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train adjustments, and timing belt replacement (for 2.5L V6).

Fuel System Repair:

Fuel pump removal/installation, fuel injector diagnosis and replacement, fuel pressure testing, fuel tank service.

Cooling System:

Radiator removal/installation, water pump replacement, thermostat replacement, cooling fan diagnosis, heater core service.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter replacement, muffler and pipe replacement, exhaust manifold gasket replacement, oxygen sensor replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor/drum replacement, brake caliper service, brake line bleeding, master cylinder replacement, parking brake adjustment.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Strut replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack replacement, wheel alignment specifications.

Body Hardware:

Door latch and lock mechanism repair, window motor and regulator replacement, mirror replacement, bumper cover installation/removal, weatherstrip replacement.

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, and complete system overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Searchable PDF

Quality:

High-resolution scanned images of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Product)

Completeness:

This is a comprehensive Factory Service Manual (FSM), containing all diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures as provided by the manufacturer. It is not an owner's manual or a condensed repair guide.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (420A engine code) - 114 hp @ 5200 rpm, 130 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm. Features multi-port fuel injection.

Engine 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ engine code) - 150 hp @ 6000 rpm, 165 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm. Features distributorless ignition and multi-port fuel injection.

Engine 3:

2.5L SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi 6G73 engine code) - 168 hp @ 5800 rpm, 173 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm. Features multi-port fuel injection and a timing belt.

Horsepower Range:

114 hp to 168 hp

Torque Range:

130 lb-ft to 173 lb-ft

Injection Type:

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

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42LE Automatic Transmission (Chrysler's A604 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic)

Transmission Optional:

None offered for the 1999 model year. All Stratus models used the 42LE automatic.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting, torque converter lock-up for improved efficiency at cruising speeds.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: 188.2 in (4780 mm), Coupe: 193.6 in (4918 mm)

Width:

70.1 in (1781 mm)

Height:

Sedan: 55.5 in (1410 mm), Coupe: 54.0 in (1372 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.0 in (2743 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Sedan: ~97 cu ft, Coupe: ~91 cu ft

Trunk Volume:

Sedan: ~15 cu ft, Coupe: ~13 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (for sedan models)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (for sedan models)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front disc/rear drum and standard on front/rear disc brake configurations.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear three-point seat belts, driver and front passenger pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most trims.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available for the 1999 model year. Traction control systems were not a widespread feature in this segment at the time.

Aux Input:

Not available. Auxiliary inputs for external audio devices were not standard or commonly offered in 1999.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on engine type and oil used.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or as needed based on wear pattern.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (for conventional coolant) or as per specific coolant type requirements.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Check fluid level regularly. Fluid and filter change recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or more frequently under severe use. Refer to manual for exact procedure and fluid type.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified. Check manual for viscosity grades suitable for extreme temperatures.

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602) or equivalent Mopar specification for the 42LE transmission.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent Mopar specification.

Common Issues:

Interior door handle failures, window regulator failures, early generation ABS sensor issues, occasional transmission shifting problems (especially with higher mileage on the 42LE), potential for exhaust manifold leaks on V6 engines, and water pump leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks and muscle cars to family sedans and minivans. The Stratus represented an effort to modernize its sedan offerings.

Stratus First Gen:

The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'Cloud Cars' platform (JA for Stratus sedan, JX for Sebring Coupe, JS for Breeze). It was designed by the same team that worked on the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. The 1999 model year saw minor updates and continued with the available engine and body style options.

Production Period:

1995-2000 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (for the sedan variant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The Stratus received mixed reviews at launch. While praised for its styling and comfort by some, it was criticized for its powertrain refinement and handling compared to key competitors. It did not receive major awards in its segment.

Consumer Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction ratings varied, with common complaints often revolving around reliability and certain interior components. The manual provides critical information to address these potential issues.