🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

DB

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Target Audience:

Families, commuters, general sedan buyers.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Nissan Altima.

Design Philosophy:

European-influenced styling (based on Chrysler Europe's LHX platform), comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class.

Platform:

Chrysler JA platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Breeze)

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (WSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File

Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for WSMs of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4 (including High Output variant), 2.7L DOHC V6

Transmission:

4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE variants)

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum; ABS systems

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link independent

Steering:

Power assisted rack and pinion

Electrical:

Charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster, power accessories

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP)

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, emissions controls

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, interior trim, glass, doors, seats, bumpers

Restraints:

Airbag systems, seatbelt systems

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and clearing

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., timing belt, water pump, alternator), transmission service and repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement

Overhaul:

Engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly; transmission overhaul

Adjustment:

Valve clearance adjustment (if applicable), parking brake adjustment

Calibration:

Throttle body cleaning and relearn, ABS sensor calibration (if applicable)

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, door hinge repair, glass replacement

Electrical Repair:

Wiring harness repair, component testing and replacement, module programming (if supported by tools)

Depth:

Comprehensive (factory level) - covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable for keywords and diagnostics.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (4G63)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1997 cc

Engine 1 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

130 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (4G69)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2351 cc

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard), 168 hp @ 6200 rpm (High Output)

Engine 2 Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (standard), 167 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (High Output)

Engine 3:

2.7L DOHC V6 (EER)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2736 cc

Engine 3 Horsepower:

200 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Approx. 8-10 seconds (V6), 10-12 seconds (4-cyl)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic

Transmission Type Optional:

None (Manual transmission was not offered on 2002 Stratus in North America).

Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter.

Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

193.4 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

56.7 inches

Wheelbase:

107.9 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 100 cubic feet

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.7 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3500 lbs (depending on engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (2002 model year) - for 5-star rating.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (2002 model year) - for 5-star rating.

IIHS Front Offset Driver:

Acceptable (for 2002 model year)

ABS:

Standard on most trims, optional on base models.

Traction Control:

Optional

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Power Windows Locks Mirrors:

Standard or optional depending on trim level.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium plugs: ~100,000 miles; Platinum plugs: ~60,000 miles. (Consult manual for specific plug type and interval).

Timing Belt Replacement:

For 2.0L SOHC (4G63) and 2.4L DOHC (4G69) engines: Every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Certified) - consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3L) with filter for 2.0L/2.4L; Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7L) with filter for 2.7L V6.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Mopar orange)

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF

Engine Mounts:

Can wear out prematurely, leading to vibration and noise.

Transmission Hard Shifts:

Fluid contamination, worn solenoid pack, or TCM issues can cause harsh shifting.

Cv Joints:

Can wear and develop clicking noises during turns.

Rear Suspension Noise:

Worn bushings in the multi-link rear suspension can cause clunks and rattles.

Evaporative Emission Control System:

Faulty vent solenoid or purge valve can trigger check engine lights (P0440, P0441, P0442).

Ac System:

Leaks in the condenser or evaporator core can lead to loss of AC performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from muscle cars to family sedans.

Stratus Generation:

This 2002 model represents the second generation of the Dodge Stratus, which was introduced for the 1995 model year. The 2001 model year saw a significant refresh with updated styling, chassis improvements, and powertrain options.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA; Toluca, Mexico

Production Years:

1995-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jd Power Initial Quality:

The Stratus, like many vehicles of its era, received mixed reviews in initial quality surveys. Specific awards for the 2002 model are not widely publicized.