🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Model Code: JA Year: 1995-2000 Generation Generation: First Generation (JA) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Mid-size sedan Target Demographic: Families, commuters, budget-conscious buyers Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima Key Features Platform Sharing: Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Breeze, and Plymouth Neon (some components), and later Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger. Design Philosophy: Designed as a more affordable and practical alternative within the Chrysler Corporation's sedan lineup. Manual Value Manual Purpose: To provide comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information for certified technicians and DIY enthusiasts. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 Page Count Page Count: Highly Comprehensive (estimated 1500+ pages based on typical for the era) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics, ECU troubleshooting Transmission Systems: Automatic transmission (e.g., 42LE) mechanical, hydraulic, electrical controls, service, repair, and diagnostic procedures Drivetrain Systems: Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, axles, CV joints, driveshafts, differentials Suspension Steering: Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts), rear suspension, steering system (power steering, rack and pinion), alignment specifications Brake Systems: Front and rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnostics, hydraulic system service Electrical Systems: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electricals, comfort features, wiring diagrams, component testing HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, service, and repair Body Structure: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, exterior trim, interior trim, structural components Diagnostic Troubleshooting: System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, OBD-II diagnostic codes and interpretations Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement Component Removal Installation: Detailed step-by-step procedures for removing and installing major components (engine, transmission, suspension parts, brakes, etc.) Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Methods for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems Electrical Diagnostics: Testing of electrical circuits, sensors, actuators, and control modules using multimeters and diagnostic tools Engine Repair: Engine internal repairs, cylinder head service, piston and ring replacement, timing component service Transmission Repair: Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement (if applicable), valve body service, torque converter replacement Body Repair: Minor body panel repairs, door and lock adjustment, interior trim replacement Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and diagnostics. Diagnostic Level: Advanced diagnostics, including electrical tracing, sensor testing, and OBD-II code interpretation. Repair Detail: Detailed, step-by-step repair procedures with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and critical tolerances. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine 1995-1997: 2.0L 4-cylinder (Mitsubishi 4G63 SOHC or DOHC) Base Engine Hp 1995-1997: 132 hp @ 6000 rpm (SOHC) Base Engine Torque 1995-1997: 127 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (SOHC) Optional Engine Optional Engine 1995-2000: 2.4L 4-cylinder (Chrysler EDZ) Optional Engine Hp 1995-2000: 144 hp @ 5200 rpm Optional Engine Torque 1995-2000: 164 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm High Performance Engine: 2.5L V6 (Chrysler EJV) High Performance Engine High Performance Engine Hp: 164 hp @ 5800 rpm (early models), 170 hp @ 5800 rpm (later models) High Performance Engine Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (early models), 165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (later models) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Management ECM Type: Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., Chrysler 42LE) Optional Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (Less common, often with 2.0L engine) Transmission Features Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (or equivalent) for automatic transmission Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for 42LE transmission (dry fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 193 inches (4902 mm) Width: Approximately 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height: Approximately 55.9 inches (1420 mm) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approximately 109.7 inches (2786 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg), depending on engine and equipment Cargo Trunk Capacity: Approximately 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver: Good (Model year dependent and specific test results vary) NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger: Good (Model year dependent and specific test results vary) Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models/trims Traction Control: Optional traction control system on some V6 models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional Infinity...