🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Year: 1998 Model Codes: JA (sedan) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan Target Audience: Budget-conscious families, individuals seeking reliable transportation Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima Key Features Platform: Chrysler JA platform (shared with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Cirrus, Plymouth Breeze) Design Philosophy: Cab-forward design for improved interior space and visibility Interior Space: Generous passenger and cargo room for its class 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: 1998 Dodge Stratus (all trims and engine options) Geographic Coverage: North America Page Count Estimated Pages: 2000+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 2.0L SOHC I4, 2.4L DOHC I4, 2.5L SOHC V6 Transmission: 4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE), 5-speed manual (Getrag) Brakes: Front disc, Rear drum/disc (depending on trim) Suspension: Front McPherson strut, Rear multi-link independent Steering: Power rack and pinion Electrical: Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starter, power accessories, instruments and gauges Body And Frame: Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, glass, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems Restraints: Airbags, seat belts Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides for all major systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic strategies and wiring schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text Printable: Printable pages Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve) Engine 1 Power: 114 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 122 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Engine 2: 2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve) Engine 2 Power: 150 hp @ 5800 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Engine 3: 2.5L SOHC V6 (24-valve) Engine 3 Power: 164 hp @ 5800 rpm Engine 3 Torque: 177 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Performance Fuel Requirement: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port fuel injection (MPI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE) Optional Transmission Optional Type: 5-speed manual (Getrag) Features Transmission Fluid Spec Auto: ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) Transmission Fluid Spec Manual: API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 188.5 inches (4788 mm) Width: 70.3 inches (1786 mm) Height: 55.2 inches (1402 mm) Wheelbase: 108.0 inches (2743 mm) Front Track: 60.6 inches (1539 mm) Rear Track: 60.5 inches (1537 mm) Weights Curb Weight Min: 3170 lbs (1438 kg) (2.0L) Curb Weight Max: 3365 lbs (1526 kg) (2.5L V6) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: 4240 lbs (1923 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 15.1 cubic feet (0.428 m³) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: Acceptable (1998) NHTSA Frontal Passenger: Acceptable (1998) Active Features ABS: Available (standard on some higher trims) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags (standard) Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (4-6 speakers). Display: Analog gauges, basic digital odometer, and climate control readouts. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Traction Control: Not commonly available on this model year. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not available (pre-dating widespread auxiliary audio jacks). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Air Filter Replacement Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Spark Plug Replacement Interval: 2.0L/2.4L: 100,000 miles (platinum plugs). 2.5L V6: 100,000 miles (platinum plugs). Timing Belt Replacement Interval: 2.0L SOHC: 90,000 miles. 2.4L DOHC: 100,000 miles. 2.5L V6: 100,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L: 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L: 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6: 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (all engines) Coolant Type: Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (blue colored) or equivalent. Known Issues Common Issue 1: Transmission problems (especially early models), including harsh shifting, slipping, or failure to engage gears. Often related to solenoids or valve body issues. Common Issue 2: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. Common Issue 3: Suspension component wear, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings. Common Issue 4: Front wheel bearing noise or failure. Common Issue 5: HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to loss of fan speeds. 📚 Vehicle History Brand...