🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Year: 2003 Product Type: Service and Repair Manual Codes Platform: Chrysler JA platform 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan and coupe (depending on body style offered that year). Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima (during its production run). Key Features Value Proposition: Provides the exact information technicians use, enabling accurate and efficient servicing and repairs, saving money on dealership labor costs. Content Advantage: Vehicle-specific, not generic; covers all models and repairs, ensuring completeness for the 2003 Stratus. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Model Variants Covered: All models and trim levels of the 2003 Dodge Stratus Repair Scope: A-Z (from basic maintenance to complex repairs) Information Source: Vehicle specific; identical to dealer technician manual Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific publication, but comprehensive service manuals for this era typically range from 1500-2500+ pages. Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: Likely printed book or digital (PDF); often available in both formats. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical (including disassembly/assembly), fuel system, lubrication system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine performance diagnostics, emission control systems. Transmission: Automatic transmission service and repair (identification, operation, diagnostics, overhaul), manual transmission service (if applicable to specific trims/engines). Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive axles, drive shafts, CV joints, differential service. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor service, parking brake system. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications. Steering: Steering column, steering gear/rack, power steering pump, steering linkage, alignment procedures. Electrical: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, power distribution, fuse and relay identification. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), climate control module. Body: Body exterior (doors, hoods, fenders, bumpers), interior trim, glass, locks, latches, body sealing, rust prevention, collision repair basics. Restraints: Airbag system (SRS) operation, diagnostics, component replacement, safety precautions. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), inspection points, service intervals. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations, use of diagnostic scan tools. Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment. Troubleshooting: Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems. Rebuilding: Detailed procedures for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions. Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, engine timing settings, wheel alignment angles. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid level checks and tire rotations to complex engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools: Guidance on using specialized tools, scan tools, and measurement equipment. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Likely PDF, potentially with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams. Print Quality Printed Quality: High-quality printing with clear diagrams and legible text, typical of professional service manuals. Binding Type Printed Binding: Professional binding (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound) designed for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment. Paper Type Printed Paper: Durable, often thicker paper stock to withstand workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options 2003: 2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve), 2.7L DOHC V6 (24-valve). Engine Code 2.0L I4: 420A (less common in later years, but potentially present). Engine Code 2.7L V6: EER (Chrysler EER engine). Performance Horsepower 2.0L I4: Approx. 132 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 2.0L I4: Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Horsepower 2.7L V6: Approx. 177 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque 2.7L V6: Approx. 184 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for both engines. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Management ECU Type: Engine Control Unit (ECU) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with OBD-II diagnostic capabilities. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 2.0L I4: 5-speed manual transmission (likely as standard). Optional Transmission 2.7L V6: 4-speed automatic transmission (likely standard on V6, optional on I4). Features Automatic Transmission Type: Chrysler's Ultradrive/AutoStick (allowing manual gear selection in some variants). Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar designation 05013457AA or equivalent) is highly probable for the automatic transmission. Manual Transmission Fluid: Likely a GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity to be detailed in the manual. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe. Wheelbase: Approximately 107.7 inches (2736 mm). Length: Sedan: Approx. 193.7 inches (4920 mm); Coupe: Approx. 187.4 inches (4760 mm). Width: Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm). Height: Sedan: Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm); Coupe: Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm). Weights Curb Weight: Varies by engine and trim, typically ranging from 3100 lbs to 3500...
Automatic transmission service and repair (identification, operation, diagnostics, overhaul), manual transmission service (if applicable to specific trims/engines).
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, power distribution, fuse and relay identification.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), climate control module.
Body:
Body exterior (doors, hoods, fenders, bumpers), interior trim, glass, locks, latches, body sealing, rust prevention, collision repair basics.
Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS) operation, diagnostics, component replacement, safety precautions.
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Do NOT mix with other types.
Known Issues
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Some automatic transmissions may develop issues with hard shifting or delayed engagement. Often related to solenoids, valve body, or fluid/filter condition.
Engine Misfires:
Common causes can include worn spark plugs, ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
Suspension Noise:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links can lead to clunking or rattling noises.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators or motors is a documented issue in some models.
Evaporator Core Leaks:
HVAC system evaporator core leaks can cause refrigerant loss and fogging of windows.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, often with distinctive styling.
Model Evolution
Stratus Genesis:
The Stratus was introduced in 1995 as a successor to the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim. The 2003 model year is part of the second generation (1996-2006), which saw the introduction of the coupe body style and significant platform updates.
Platform Sharing:
The Stratus shared its platform (JA) with the Chrysler Cirrus, Sebring Sedan, and Sebring Coupe, and Plymouth Breeze. This allowed for economies of scale in development and manufacturing.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Production Years:
1995-2006 (model years).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
J.D. Power Ratings:
Specific awards for the 2003 Stratus are not widely documented as significant positive recognitions. Often ranked in the lower half of its segment in initial quality and dependability surveys during this period.
Le choix d'une sélection entraîne l'actualisation de la page entière.