Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
42LE Automatic Transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only Automatic Offered)
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronically Controlled
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.9 inches
Width:
70.4 inches
Height:
55.7 inches
Wheelbase:
108.0 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
99.5 cubic feet
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
15.1 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
3245 lbs (2.0L)
Curb Weight Max:
3430 lbs (2.5L V6)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM Stereo Cassette/CD Player, Optional Premium Infinity Sound System
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 30,000 miles (conventional)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L/2.5L:
Every 100,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosities based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 Quarts (3.8 L) with filter change (2.0L, 2.4L); 4.5 Quarts (4.3 L) with filter change (2.5L V6)
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially 2.4L), oil leaks, timing belt issues (on older 2.0L SOHC models before major overhaul), intake manifold gasket leaks.
Common Problems Transmission:
Hesitation, slipping, harsh shifting (common for the 42LE transmission, often due to solenoid issues or fluid degradation).
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, premature strut wear.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, gauge cluster issues, intermittent issues with body control modules.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Establishment:
Dodge, established in 1914 as a manufacturer of automotive parts and later complete vehicles.
Model Evolution
Generation Debut:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of Chrysler's 'cloud car' trio (along with Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze), replacing the Dodge Spirit and Aries.
Year Updates:
The 1999 model year saw minor cosmetic updates and the introduction of the more powerful 2.4L DOHC engine as an option, replacing the previous 2.0L DOHC engine. The 2.5L V6 remained.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
1995-2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Jd Power Dependability:
Early Dodge Stratus models received mixed reliability ratings from J.D. Power, with some areas showing below-average dependability for the period.
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