🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: JA 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Mid-size Sedan (often referred to as a 'large compact' or entry-level mid-size) Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1997: Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima Key Features Platform Sharing: Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze (Chrysler JA platform) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ (typical for a full workshop manual) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires Electrical: Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electronics Body: Body Panels, Doors, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics Repair: Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures Specifications: Torque Specifications, Gapping Specifications, Tolerances Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic adjustments to major component overhaul) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable Text: Likely Yes (if a professionally scanned and OCR'd manual) Print Quality Print Recommendation: Printable on standard home/office printers Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type 1: 2.0L Inline-4 SOHC (Mitsubishi 4G63 variant) Displacement 1: 1997 cc (121.9 cu in) Horsepower 1: 114 hp @ 5000 rpm Torque 1: 128 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm Fuel System 1: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Optional Engine Engine Type 2: 2.4L Inline-4 DOHC (Chrysler EDZ) Displacement 2: 2351 cc (143.5 cu in) Horsepower 2: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque 2: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System 2: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Performance Engine Notes: The 2.4L EDZ engine was known for its decent power for the class, but could be prone to head gasket issues if overheated. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 1: 4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler A604/41TE 'Ultradrive') Optional Transmission Type 2: 5-Speed Manual (Rare option, primarily with the 2.0L engine) Features Transmission Notes: The A604 automatic transmission was a Chrysler-designed electronically controlled unit, generally reliable but could exhibit harsh shifting if not properly maintained. Fluid type is ATF+4 or equivalent (refer to manual for specific Mopar spec). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 188.2 inches (4780 mm) Width: 70.2 inches (1783 mm) Height: 55.4 inches (1407 mm) Wheelbase: 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 98.5 cu ft (2790 L) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 15.7 cu ft (444 L) Weights Curb Weight Min: Approx. 3050 lbs (1383 kg) Curb Weight Max: Approx. 3250 lbs (1474 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact: 4 Stars (1997 Model Year) NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact: 4 Stars (1997 Model Year) Active Features ABS: Available (Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims) Traction Control: Not commonly available for 1997 Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags (Standard) Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available (Optional on some trims) Connectivity Connectivity Options: Limited to basic power accessories. No integrated Bluetooth or advanced telematics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months (synthetic recommended for longer intervals), consult manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions. Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (critical for A604/41TE transmission life), consult manual for specific interval and fluid type. Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, consult manual). Timing Belt Replacement: Not Applicable (2.0L uses a timing chain, 2.4L uses a timing belt; consult manual for 2.4L interval, typically 60,000-90,000 miles). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature, API certified) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter (2.0L), Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter (2.4L) Coolant Type: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Power Steering Fluid: ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid (refer to manual). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Engine 2 4L Edz Issue: Head gasket failures, particularly if the cooling system is not maintained, leading to overheating. Transmission A604 Issue: Harsh shifting, slipping, or transmission control module (TCM) issues can occur with age and mileage. Regular fluid changes are crucial. Suspension Wear: Front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings, tie rod ends) can experience wear due to road conditions. Power Window Motors: Known to fail over time. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge Brand Focus: Historically known for performance and ruggedness, though the Stratus represented a shift towards mainstream family sedans. Model Evolution Stratus Generation 1: This is the first generation of the Dodge Stratus, introduced for the 1995 model year. Production Production Period:...