🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Production Years Covered: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 Codes Chassis Codes: JA (Coupe), JX (Sedan) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan/coupe, competing in a segment with strong offerings from Japanese and American manufacturers. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima. Key Features Platform: Chrysler JA/JX platform, sharing components with other Chrysler Corporation vehicles of the era (e.g., Plymouth Breeze, Chrysler Cirrus). Design Philosophy: Designed with aerodynamic styling and a focus on interior space and comfort for its class. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Geographical Coverage: North America Vehicle Variants Covered: Sedan and Coupe body styles Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing system (belt/chain), lubrication, cooling system. Engine Performance: Fuel delivery, fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems (OBD-II), engine diagnostics. Transmission: Automatic Transaxle (4-speed 41TE/42LE), clutch (if manual option existed), gear shifting, torque converter, transmission control. Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake components (calipers, rotors, pads, drums, shoes), parking brake, bleeding procedures. Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel alignment. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power distribution. Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, frame, underbody, corrosion protection. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control module. Restraints: Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners. Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems. Diagnostics: Procedures for using scan tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing actuator tests. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all circuits and components. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth repair and diagnostics. Diagnostic Techniques: Detailed OBD-II diagnostic procedures and specific diagnostic trouble code interpretations. Component Rebuild: Includes instructions for major component overhauls and rebuilds (e.g., engine, transmission). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution PDF for clear viewing and printing. Searchable text. Print Quality Clarity: Optimized for readability, ensuring clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: Not applicable (PDF format) Paper Type Paper: Not applicable (PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve), Engine Code: EDZ Displacement 1: 1996 cc (2.0 Liters) Horsepower 1: Approx. 132 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 1: Approx. 129 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: 2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve), Engine Code: EDN (or EDZ in some configurations) Displacement 2: 2370 cc (2.4 Liters) Horsepower 2: Approx. 150 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 2: Approx. 163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended) Ignition System Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type 1: 4-speed automatic transaxle (41TE / 42LE) Optional Type 2: 5-speed manual transaxle (less common, primarily on base models or specific trims) Features Automatic Control: Electronically controlled automatic transmission (e.g., utilizing Powertrain Control Module - PCM). Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent) or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid as per earlier specifications. Refer to manual for precise specification. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan: Approx. 188.8 inches Width: Approx. 70.2 inches Height: Approx. 55.6 inches Wheelbase: Approx. 108.0 inches Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 96-100 cubic feet (depending on body style) Cargo Trunk Volume Sedan: Approx. 15.0 cubic feet Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions) Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS). Seatbelts: Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pre-tensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Available premium sound systems. Display: Basic digital or analog instrument cluster, climate control displays. No touchscreen infotainment systems in this era. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Connectivity OBD Ii: On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant, allowing for electronic fault code reading and diagnostics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or...
ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent) or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid as per earlier specifications. Refer to manual for precise specification.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
Approx. 188.8 inches
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches
Height:
Approx. 55.6 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.0 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 96-100 cubic feet (depending on body style)
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 15.0 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 stars (1996-1999 models, varies by year and specific test conditions)
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pre-tensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Available premium sound systems.
Display:
Basic digital or analog instrument cluster, climate control displays. No touchscreen infotainment systems in this era.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Connectivity
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant, allowing for electronic fault code reading and diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 100,000 miles (using long-life iridium spark plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Every 100,000 miles (using long-life iridium spark plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 to 100,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first) for the 2.0L engine. The 2.4L engine typically uses a timing chain.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 to 60,000 miles or as per severe duty schedule. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended).
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically pink or orange color. 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Known Issues
Transmission Problems:
Intermittent shifting issues, torque converter shudder, and solenoid pack failure are reported common problems for the 41TE/42LE automatic transmission.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts leading to vibration and noise.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends can lead to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Radiator:
Cracked plastic end tanks on the radiator, leading to coolant leaks.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators, causing windows to cease operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler).
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The Dodge Stratus was introduced for the 1995 model year as part of the Chrysler LH platform's derivative, the JA platform.
Facelifts:
Received a minor facelift for the 2000 model year, including updated styling and features.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA.
Discontinuation:
The Stratus nameplate was eventually replaced by the Dodge Avenger in North America.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
While specific awards may be limited, the Stratus achieved respectable safety ratings for its class and time period, particularly with available ABS and airbags.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer reports ratings for this era of Stratus often indicated average to below-average reliability, particularly concerning the powertrain and transmission.