🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Stratus Convertible

Year:

1999

Generation:

First Generation (JA)

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size convertible

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops

Competitors:

Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Pontiac Firebird Convertible, Toyota Camry Solara Convertible

Vehicle Appeal:

Affordable convertible option, stylish design for its era, comfortable ride

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair the Stratus Convertible, potentially saving significant costs on dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.0L I4 SOHC, 2.4L I4 DOHC (High Output), 2.5L V6 SOHC

Transmission Coverage:

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

Body Style Coverage:

Convertible

Trim Level Coverage:

All models and trims

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission system, drivetrain components (axles, CV joints)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC electrical controls, power accessories, audio systems, charging and starting system, wiring diagrams

Body And Interior:

Body construction, exterior panels, doors, convertible top mechanism and operation, interior trim, seats, safety restraints

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, belt tensioning

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical testing

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission service, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, convertible top repair

Specification Adjustments:

Ignition timing, idle speed, valve lash (where applicable), tire pressures, alignment specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.0 L

Engine 1 Cylinders:

Inline-4

Engine 1 Valve Configuration:

SOHC

Engine 1 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm (est.)

Engine 1 Torque:

125 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (est.)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2.4 L

Engine 2 Cylinders:

Inline-4

Engine 2 Valve Configuration:

DOHC (High Output)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm (est.)

Engine 2 Torque:

157 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (est.)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2.5 L

Engine 3 Cylinders:

V6

Engine 3 Valve Configuration:

SOHC

Engine 3 Horsepower:

164 hp @ 6200 rpm (est.)

Engine 3 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (est.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (Minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Codes:

41TE, 42LE

Optional Transmission:

None offered from factory for this model year convertible

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, Overdrive

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 193.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 54.9 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.0 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (varies by engine/options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (as reported for Stratus Sedan/Coupe, convertible ratings may vary)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (as reported for Stratus Sedan/Coupe, convertible ratings may vary)

IIHS Front Offset Driver:

Acceptable (as reported for Stratus Sedan/Coupe, convertible ratings may vary)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some

Traction Control:

Optional

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

Convertible Top Safety:

Reinforced A-pillars, optional rollover protection (refer to specific vehicle)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Cassette/CD player, optional premium sound system

Display:

Analog gauges, digital odometer, climate controls

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Keyless Entry:

Optional

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; typically analog connectivity for audio accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific engine; typically around 60,000-90,000 miles for interference engines

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0-5.0 quarts (depending on engine)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Formula 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problem 1:

Power window regulators failing

Common Problem 2:

Convertible top hydraulic system leaks or motor failure

Common Problem 3:

CV joint boots cracking and failing

Common Problem 4:

Coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater core

Common Problem 5:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failures on certain models

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing vehicles with performance and bold styling, evolving from early trucks and muscle cars to modern sedans and SUVs.

Stratus Lineage:

The Dodge Stratus was part of Chrysler's JA platform, sharing components with the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus. It was produced from 1995 to 2006. The convertible version was introduced later in the Stratus's lifecycle, offering a more stylish and leisure-oriented option.

Production Years:

1995-2006 (Stratus), Convertible body style offered from 1996-2000 in North America

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (for the JA platform)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Competitor Awards:

While the Stratus itself did not win significant individual awards, its platform siblings or competitive vehicles in the segment may have received accolades for design or value.

Consumer Reports Historical Ratings:

Consumer Reports generally provided average to below-average ratings for reliability and performance for the Stratus during its production run, particularly concerning the convertible variants.