🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: JA (Chrysler JA platform) 👋 Introduction Market Position Original Market Segment: Compact to Mid-size Sedan Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Chevrolet Cavalier, Ford Escort, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra Key Features Model Positioning: A practical and affordable sedan offering a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency for its class. Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, small families 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Full service, repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 1500 Manual Type Type: Full Service & Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely Printed or Digital (PDF/eBook) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (2.0L I4, 2.5L V6), Transmission (Manual, Automatic), Drivetrain (Front-Wheel Drive) Chassis: Suspension (Front MacPherson strut, Rear multi-link), Steering (Power rack and pinion), Brakes (Front disc, Rear drum/disc), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Audio System, Power Accessories Body And Interior: Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Windows, Seats, Interior trim, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Fuel System, Exhaust System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Lubrication, Inspections Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Component testing, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Common problems and solutions Repair And Rebuild: Engine disassembly/assembly, Transmission overhaul, Brake system repair, Electrical component replacement, Suspension component replacement Restoration And Refurbishing: Bodywork, Interior refurbishment, Component rebuilding Engine Timing: Procedures for setting engine timing, belt replacement (including interference engine warnings). Emission Controls: Information on emission control systems, EGR, and catalytic converter operation and testing. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds) Electrical Diagnostics: Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts for all electrical systems. Suspension Geometry: Alignment specifications, component torque values, and repair procedures for suspension linkages. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Details: If digital, likely PDF with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams Print Quality Print Quality Details: If printed, expected to be high-quality paper with clear diagrams and legible text Binding Type Binding Type Details: If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and ease of use Paper Type Paper Type Details: If printed, typically durable, possibly glossy or semi-gloss paper for diagrams ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 2.0L 4G63 SOHC I4 (Mitsubishi origin) Engine 1 Displacement: 1997 cc (2.0 Liters) Engine 1 Horsepower: Approx. 116 hp @ 5500 rpm Engine 1 Torque: Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2: 2.5L 6G73 SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi origin) Engine 2 Displacement: 2497 cc (2.5 Liters) Engine 2 Horsepower: Approx. 153 hp @ 6000 rpm Engine 2 Torque: Approx. 156 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Performance Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Engine Management ECU Type: Chrysler proprietary ECU (likely based on Mitsubishi electronics) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 1: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag/Chrysler G360 variant) Optional Transmission 2: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler 41TE/42LE) Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, Lock-up torque converter Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Chrysler ATF+3 (MS-9229) or equivalent Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 181.8 inches (4618 mm) Width: Approx. 69.5 inches (1765 mm) Height: Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm) Weights Curb Weight Min: Approx. 2900 lbs (1315 kg) (2.0L Manual) Curb Weight Max: Approx. 3200 lbs (1451 kg) (2.5L Automatic) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 4-star (1996 model year data) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 4-star (1996 model year data) Active Features Brakes Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes Rear: Drum (standard) / Disc (optional on some trims) ABS: Optional Passive Features Airbags Driver: Standard (Driver Frontal) Airbags Passenger: Optional/Standard on higher trims Seatbelts: Front: 3-point retractable, Rear: 3-point retractable (outboard), 2-point lap (center) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD Player (optional), likely with 4-6 speaker configuration. Climate Control: Manual or Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) for HVAC. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional Keyless Entry: Optional Connectivity Factory Options: Limited connectivity by modern standards; focus on core vehicle functions. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil recommended), or as per owner's manual. Check manual for details. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum tipped plugs (refer to manual for specific type). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for temperature variations). Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L V6: Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for temperature variations). Coolant Type: Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) compatible coolant, typically orange...