🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Stratus Year: 1997 Codes Platform: JA (Chrysler's JA platform) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Mid-size sedan Target Audience: Families, commuters seeking practical and affordable transportation Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima Key Features Design Philosophy: Cab-forward design, maximizing interior space and a distinctive profile for its era Platform Sharing: Shared platform with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Breeze, and Plymouth Neon (though Stratus is larger than Neon), and Plymouth Voyager/Dodge Caravan (shared some powertrain components and engineering). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics Transmission Systems: Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE) service and repair, clutch operation (if applicable to specific configurations, though primarily automatic for this era Stratus) Drivetrain Systems: Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints Suspension Systems: Front and rear suspension, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings Steering Systems: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods Brake Systems: Front and rear brakes (disc/drum or disc/disc depending on trim), anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic system Electrical Systems: Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows/locks, cruise control HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service Body And Frame: Exterior panels, interior trim, bumpers, glass, seals, underbody, chassis components Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement Repair Procedures: Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair Troubleshooting Guides: Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts Diagnostic Procedures: OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and testing, sensor testing, actuator testing Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds Diagnostic Capability: Detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing specifications 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Readability Recommendation: Adobe PDF Reader recommended for optimal display of images and graphics Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution, suitable for printing and detailed viewing of diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding Type Physical: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type Physical: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Displacement: 2.0 L (1996 cc) Engine 1 Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder (SOHC) Engine 1 Horsepower: 132 hp @ 6000 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 127 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Engine 1 Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 1 Engine Code: Various, potentially including AMC 2.0L engines Optional Engine Engine 2 Displacement: 2.5 L (2507 cc) Engine 2 Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder (SOHC) Engine 2 Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5800 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 160 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Engine 2 Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 2 Engine Code: Various, potentially including AMC 2.5L engines Performance Engine Performance Notes: The 2.5L engine provided a more robust power delivery suitable for highway cruising and acceleration. Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 15.0 gallons 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE) Optional Transmission Type Optional: Manual Transmission (likely 5-speed, less common on base models) Features Transmission Features: Overdrive gear for fuel efficiency, electronically controlled for smoother shifts. Fluid Specification Transmission Fluid Type: Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification like Dexron III / Mercon) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 108.0 inches Length: 193.1 inches Width: 70.1 inches Height: 55.2 inches Interior Passenger Volume: Approximately 99.3 cubic feet Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 15.1 cubic feet Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by configuration, typically around 4300 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating: Not explicitly rated or mixed reviews, typical for the era. May have 3 or 4 stars. NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating: Not explicitly rated or mixed reviews, typical for the era. May have 3 or 4 stars. Active Features Anti Lock Brakes: Optional or standard depending on trim level Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seatbelts: Front and rear seatbelts, driver's side pretensioner 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo, optional cassette or CD player, 4-6 speaker configurations Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trim levels Connectivity Power Features: Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil); 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum plugs) Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or every 24 months Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40...