2.5L (150 cu in) DOHC V6 (Engine Code: BEV, BEV-1, BEV-2 - Chrysler EGD engine family)
Optional Engine 2 Hp
Optional Engine 2 Hp:
Approx. 164 hp @ 5800 rpm (early models), up to 170 hp @ 5800 rpm (later models)
Optional Engine 2 Torque
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early models), up to 175 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models)
Optional Engine 2 Fuel System
Optional Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Performance
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum (all engines)
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum (all engines)
Firing Order 4Cyl:
1-3-4-2
Firing Order V6:
1-2-3-4-5-6
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MTX)
Optional
Optional Transmission 1:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE / 42LE family)
Features
Automatic Transmission Features:
Selectable overdrive, electronic control
Manual Transmission Features:
Standard front-wheel drive transaxle design
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to manual for specific Mopar PN)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.0 inches (2692 mm)
Length:
Approx. 188.2 inches (4780 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (1360-1542 kg) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4200-4500 lbs (1905-2041 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.2 cubic feet (402 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Crash Test Driver Front:
Likely 4-star for driver front impact (ratings may vary by year)
NHTSA Crash Test Passenger Front:
Likely 4-star for passenger front impact (ratings may vary by year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good to Acceptable, depending on specific test parameters and year (check IIHS archives for specifics)
Active Features
ABS:
Available on most trims, standard on some higher trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; side airbags optional on some models
Seat Belts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front), three-point seatbelts (rear)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, speaker configurations vary by trim
Navigation:
Not available from factory
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, aftermarket options may exist
Climate Control
Climate Control Type:
Manual climate control standard, automatic climate control optional on higher trims
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 100,000 miles with platinum-tipped plugs
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles with platinum-tipped plugs
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (all engines are OHC with timing chains)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity, synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent, typically Mopar OAT Pink
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.0-10.0 quarts (8.5-9.5 liters)
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Transmission solenoid failure (especially in 41TE/42LE transmissions)
Common Issue 2:
Head gasket leaks (particularly on the 2.0L engine in earlier years)
Common Issue 3:
Suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints, control arms)
Common Issue 4:
Power steering pump leaks or whining noise
Common Issue 5:
EVAP system (emissions) leaks, leading to check engine light
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Brand Context:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), known for performance and value-oriented vehicles
Model Evolution
Model Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' lineup, replacing the Dodge Spirit.
Platform Sharing:
Shared the JA platform with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze.
Trim Levels:
Typically offered in ES (sportier) and SE (standard) trims, with various option packages.
Production
Production Period:
1995-2000 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reception:
While not a recipient of major prestigious awards, the Stratus was a popular choice in its segment for its comfort and value proposition, especially the ES trim.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings for this era of Dodge vehicles often indicated average to below-average reliability, particularly concerning transmission and electrical systems. Detailed analysis of specific model years and engines is available within the manual's diagnostic sections.