Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan
Target Audience:
Families, commuters seeking practical and affordable transportation
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, maximizing interior space and a distinctive profile for its era
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Breeze, and Plymouth Neon (though Stratus is larger than Neon), and Plymouth Voyager/Dodge Caravan (shared some powertrain components and engineering).
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE) service and repair, clutch operation (if applicable to specific configurations, though primarily automatic for this era Stratus)
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum or disc/disc depending on trim), anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic system
Electrical Systems:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows/locks, cruise control
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service
Body And Frame:
Exterior panels, interior trim, bumpers, glass, seals, underbody, chassis components
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and testing, sensor testing, actuator testing
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing specifications
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0 L (1996 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder (SOHC)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
127 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Engine Code:
Various, potentially including AMC 2.0L engines
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 L (2507 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder (SOHC)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Engine Code:
Various, potentially including AMC 2.5L engines
Engine Performance Notes:
The 2.5L engine provided a more robust power delivery suitable for highway cruising and acceleration.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 15.0 gallons
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type Optional:
Manual Transmission (likely 5-speed, less common on base models)
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gear for fuel efficiency, electronically controlled for smoother shifts.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification like Dexron III / Mercon)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 99.3 cubic feet
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15.1 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 4300 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Not explicitly rated or mixed reviews, typical for the era. May have 3 or 4 stars.
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Not explicitly rated or mixed reviews, typical for the era. May have 3 or 4 stars.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional or standard depending on trim level
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, driver's side pretensioner
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo, optional cassette or CD player, 4-6 speaker configurations
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil); 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or every 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.0L and 2.5L engines
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically pink or orange)
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially on 2.5L), oil leaks, EGR valve issues, coolant leaks
Common Problems Transmission:
Slipping, rough shifting, failure of the torque converter clutch (TCC) or solenoid pack
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends leading to noise and steering issues
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, dashboard warning lights, power lock actuator issues
Typical Repair Focus:
Maintenance of the cooling system, preventative replacement of worn suspension components, and addressing potential head gasket concerns.
Dodge History:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, transitioning from trucks and muscle cars to a broader range of sedans, SUVs, and minivans.
Stratus First Generation:
The Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'Cloud Cars' (JA platform), replacing the Dodge Spirit and Monaco.
Stratus 1997 Updates:
The 1997 model year saw minor revisions, continuing the established design and powertrain options from previous years.
Production Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1995-2000 (first generation)