Approx. 4000 lbs (1814 kg) - Varies by configuration
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheels:
15-inch steel wheels with covers or optional alloy wheels.
Optional Wheels:
16-inch alloy wheels.
Standard Tire Size:
195/65R15
Optional Tire Size:
205/55R16
Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
Center Bore:
57.1 mm
Lug Nut Size:
M12 x 1.5
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star rating (1998 model year reports).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star rating (1998 model year reports).
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 1998 model year reports).
Active Features
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS on all trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on this model year, but provisions may exist or can be added.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Display:
Analog gauges, digital odometer display, basic climate controls.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
OBD Standard:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for electronic code reading.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles for Platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles; change fluid and filter every 60,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect every 30,000 miles; change fluid every 60,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace if cracked or worn.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher, or certified for CD-II).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, OAT or HOAT compatible) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 (Mopar P/N 05010066AA or equivalent)
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Common Problem 2:
Premature wear of front suspension components (strut mounts, control arm bushings) due to average weight and FWD bias.
Common Problem 3:
Transmission issues, particularly with the 41TE automatic, including solenoid failures or torque converter clutch shudder.
Common Problem 4:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to blower speed control issues.
Common Problem 5:
Interior electrical gremlins, such as power window or lock malfunctions, sometimes attributed to body control module (BCM) or wiring harness issues.
Common Problem 6:
Radiator and cooling fan failures can lead to overheating.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing trucks, performance cars, and mainstream vehicles.
Model Evolution
Stratus Introduction:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Dodge 'new model' initiative.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Chrysler JA platform, which was jointly developed with Mitsubishi, leading to shared components and engineering with models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon.
Design Inspiration:
Its design was heavily influenced by European styling trends of the time, aiming for a more sophisticated appearance.
Production
Production Location:
Built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Model Years:
1995-2000 (First Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
While not a segment leader in critical acclaim, it was praised for its styling and value proposition upon release.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Rating:
Generally rated as average to below average in reliability for its class in early years, with some improvements over its lifecycle.
Certifications
Emission Certification:
Meets EPA emission standards for 1998 model year vehicles.