Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) — Maintenance, Battery & Fault Codes | TroubleAtlas

🌐 ▾
Dodge Stratus (1995–2006)
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.0/10
TroubleAtlas Score
The TroubleAtlas app on a phoneTROUBLEATLAS APP · FREEFREE APPDownload our free appDownload our free appOur shopping centre in your pocket: dozens of suppliers that deliver in your country, compared, department by department.Dozens of suppliers compared, in your country. Get it free Get it free

DODGE STRATUS (1995–2006): Technical Data, DTC & Service Schedule

Built 1995–2006 · all production years covered on this single page

2.4L I4 • Gasoline

Dodge Stratus (1995–2006)

© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA

5 Common problems View details →
14 OBD2 codes View details →
34 Recalls / TSB View details →
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliability
n/a
Safety & recalls
n/a
Repair cost
6.2
Parts & repairability
7.4
Maintenance & durability
n/a
Documentation & support
4.5
★ How we calculate this → Methodology
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.0/10
Independent · Verified · Never for sale

Every figure on this Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.

The Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) uses Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend engine oil. Its battery is group 34 (BCI), rated at 600A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 2.4L I4 engine. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.

⚠️ COMMON PROBLEMS
Transmission fault signal (TCM)MODERATE

The transmission module detected a fault — check separate transmission codes.

Related codes: P0700

Misfire / Loss of cylinderMODERATE

Rough running, idle vibration, power loss.

Related codes: P0300

Thermostat: coolant temperature lowLOW

Thermostat stuck open — engine does not reach operating temperature.

Related codes: P0128

Battery/system voltage lowLOW

System voltage below 10V — check alternator, battery or wiring.

Related codes: P0562

P0011LOW

Check with an OBD2 scanner.

Related codes: P0011

🔧 COMMON REPAIRS
🔧
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.8h
€56 – €72
🔧
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
🛢
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.3h
€21 – €27
🔧
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS

Prices may vary by area and workshop.

🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
⏱️ OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)

Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.

Brakes8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
ABS Module2.0h€ 90–€ 150
ABS Pump2.5h€ 112–€ 187
ABS Tone Ring1.5h€ 67–€ 112
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front0.8h€ 36–€ 60
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Brake Bleed - All Four1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Brake Booster2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Brake Booster Check Valve0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Cooling8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Coolant Bypass Pipe1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Coolant Flush1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Coolant Reservoir0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Coolant Temperature Sensor0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Cooling Fan Assembly1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Cooling Fan Motor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Cooling Fan Relay0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Engine Oil Cooler2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Electrical8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Airbag - Driver1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Airbag - Passenger1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Airbag - Side2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Airbag Module/Computer1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Alternator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Alternator Belt0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Amplifier1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Antenna0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Engine8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Camshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Camshaft R&R8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Connecting Rod Bearings15.0h€ 675–€ 1125
Crankshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Crankshaft R&R20.0h€ 900–€ 1500
Cylinder Head R&R6.0h€ 270–€ 450
Cylinder Head Resurface8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Engine Mount - Front1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Exhaust8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Injection Check Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Catalytic Converter - California1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Universal2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Downpipe2.0h€ 90–€ 150
EGR Cooler3.0h€ 135–€ 225
EGR Tube1.5h€ 67–€ 112
EGR Valve1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Fuel system8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Charcoal Canister1.0h€ 45–€ 75
EVAP Purge Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
EVAP Vent Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Fuel Cap0.1h€ 4–€ 7
Fuel Filler Neck1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Fuel Filter0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Fuel Filter - In-Tank2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Fuel Injector - Single1.0h€ 45–€ 75
HVAC8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
AC Accumulator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Clutch Coil1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Compressor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Compressor Clutch2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Compressor Oil Add0.5h€ 22–€ 37
AC Condenser2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Evaporator6.0h€ 270–€ 450
AC Expansion Valve (TXV)4.0h€ 180–€ 300
Steering8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Center Link/Drag Link1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Module1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Motor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Idler Arm1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Pitman Arm1.2h€ 54–€ 90
Power Steering Fluid Flush0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Power Steering Gear Box3.5h€ 157–€ 262
Power Steering Hose - High Pressure1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Suspension8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Line1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Spring/Air Bag1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Compressor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Height Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Suspension Valve Block2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Ball Joint - Lower1.8h€ 81–€ 135
Ball Joint - Upper1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Ball Joints - Upper and Lower3.0h€ 135–€ 225
Transmission8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Kickdown Cable0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Neutral Safety Switch1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Overdrive Solenoid2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Shift Cable1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Shift Linkage1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Shift Solenoid - Single3.6h€ 162–€ 270
Shift Solenoids - All7.8h€ 351–€ 585
Torque Converter6.0h€ 270–€ 450
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY

Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.

🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Engine oil
Engine oil
Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend
With filter change
5.0 L
Coolant
Coolant
Mopar OAT Coolant (Purple)
Use pre-mixed or mix 50/50 with distilled water
10.0 L
Brake fluid
Brake fluid
Mopar DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Replace when moisture content exceeds 3% or every 2-3 years
Automatic transmission fluid
Mopar ATF+4
10.0 L
Power steering fluid
Mopar ATF+4
1.0 L
Washer fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid
Refill as needed. Use winter-rated in cold climates.
3.5 L
📋 RECALLS & TSB (34)
NHTSA 04V313000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 29/06/2004
ON CERTAIN 2-DOOR PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL RETURN LINE HOSE FITTING ON THE ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP MAY BE IMPROPERLY MOLDED.
NHTSA 07E023000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder
Date: 29/03/2007
CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MAS…
NHTSA 10E059000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Arm
Date: 27/12/2010
FEDERAL-MOGUL IS RECALLING CERTAIN REPLACEMENT CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES, PART NUMBERS K7425, 10945, FA4510X, K7427, 10946, AND FA4611X, SOLD FOR USE ON VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BALL JOINT ON THE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE BALL STUD TO WEAR THROUG…
NHTSA 00V320002
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 27/10/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OUTER LAYER ONLY OF THIS 3-LAYER FUEL RETURN HOSE DOES NOT CONTAIN THE DESIRED OZONE PROTECTION DUE TO A PROCESSING ERROR.
NHTSA 06E088000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 23/10/2006
CERTAIN TIGAS FUEL PUMP MODULES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 1 AND SEPTEMBER 24, 2006, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AND P/NOS. THESE FUEL PUMP MODULES ARE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE IN CERTAIN DAIMLERCHRYSLER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SILICONE MATERIAL USED IN MANUFACTURE OF THE F…
NHTSA 98V063000
Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage
Date: 20/03/1998
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE REAR SEAT BELT ANCHOR DOES NOT ACHIEVE THE LOADING REQUIRED BY FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."
NHTSA 00V278000
Structure › Frame And Members › Underbody Shields
Date: 18/09/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THROUGH DEGRADATION OF THE BOND BETWEEN THE SILENCER PAD AND A SHEET METAL PANEL (QUARTER INNER UPPER), THE PAD MAY FALL ONTO THE MAP LIGHT LOCATED IN THE REAR SEATING AREA NEAR THE C-PILLAR TRIM PANEL (LH AND RH). THIS CONTACT COULD CA…
NHTSA 00V196000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 17/07/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INADEQUATE WELD BETWEEN THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE HOSE BLOCK AND THE STAND-OFF BRACKET.
NHTSA 01V011002
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Cooling Unit And Lines
Date: 16/01/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. A HOSE MANUFACTURING PROCESS ALLOWED THE REINFORCEMENT YARD TO BREACH THE INNER LAYER OF SOME AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HOSES WEAKENING THE INNER WALL WHICH COULD RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF THE AUTOMATIC TR…
NHTSA 99V244000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 15/09/1999
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE TUBE CAN CONTACT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM CLAMP AND WEAR A HOLE IN IT.
NHTSA 97V201000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Date: 13/11/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT CAN SEPARATE DUE TO LOSS OF LUBRICATION.
NHTSA 04V021000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever And Linkage › Floor Shift
Date: 13/01/2004
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FLOOR SHIFTER IGNITION-PARK INTERLOCK MAY FAIL AND ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION WITH THE KEY REMOVED. AN INOPERATIVE INTERLOCK MAY ALSO ALLOW THE KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE PARK POSIT…
NHTSA 00V306000
Air Bags › Frontal
Date: 12/10/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. PASSENGER AIR BAGS WERE BUILT WITH SUSPECT ALUMINUM EXTRUSION SECTIONS WHICH MAY NOT RETAIN THE AIR BAG DOOR DURING AN AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT EVENT.
NHTSA 09E025000
Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Date: 11/05/2009
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS…
NHTSA 96V006000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline
Date: 11/01/1996
IN CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD OIL GALLEY PLUG DOES NOT SEAL PROPERLY AND ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD OIL IS NOT ADEQUATELY RETAINED.
NHTSA 00V225002
Steering › Gear Box (Other Than Rack And Pinion)
Date: 10/08/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A NUT IN THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY WAS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED, RESULTING IN SYMPTOMS RANGING FROM STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION TO STIFF STEERING, AND IN THE WORST CASE, NO ABILITY TO TURN LEFT.
NHTSA 04V579000
Steering › Linkages › Knuckle › Spindle › Arm
Date: 09/12/2004
ON CERTAIN SEDANS AND CONVERTIBLE MODEL VEHICLES, THE RIGHT STEERING KNUCKLE MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING THE COMPONENT MANUFACTURING PROCESS.
NHTSA 00V366000
Child Seat
Date: 09/11/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." SOME OF THE OWNER'S MANUALS FOR THESE VEHICLES ARE MISSING INSTRUCTIONS THAT PROVIDE A STEP-BY-S…
NHTSA 09E056000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Date: 09/10/2009
QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BALL JOINTS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SOCKET MAY HAVE BEEN EXCESSIVELY HARDENED WHICH COULD CAUSE IT TO CRACK NEAR THE RETAINING RING GROOVE ALLOWING THE BALL STUD TO SEPARATE UNDER IMPACT LOAD. THE SUBJEC…
NHTSA 01V005002
Seats
Date: 08/01/2001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A NUMBER OF INCORRECT DRIVER SIDE SEAT MOUNTING BOLTS WERE INSTALLED INTO VEHICLES.
NHTSA 09E043000
Equipment
Date: 07/07/2009
IMPORT PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 30,351 FUEL FILTERS SOLD TO AND BRANDED BY THE AFFINIA GROUP AS CARQUEST P/N 86523, NAPA P/N 3523, AND WIX P/N 33523 FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE FILTERS MAY DEVELOP A LEAK IN THE HOSE ASSEMBLY AND/OR CONNECTOR…
NHTSA 98V183000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Park/Neutral Start Interlock Switch
Date: 06/08/1998
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE CABLE CONNECTING THE CONSOLE SHIFTER MECHANISM TO THE IGNITION KEY CAN CAUSE A TRAPPED KEY CONDITION WHICH CAN RESULT IN A LOW FORCE REQUIRED TO DEPRESS THE SHIFT BUTTON. A CO…
NHTSA 97V095000
Structure › Body › Hood › Hinge And Attachments
Date: 06/06/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH SPRING CAN DISENGAGE FROM ITS RETENTION HOLE IF THE HOOD IS SLAMMED SHUT.
NHTSA 06V001000
Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, And Connections
Date: 05/01/2006
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4 LITER ENGINES, THE HIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE MAY PREMATURELY HEAT AGE AND DEVELOP A LEAK.
NHTSA 03V443000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 04/11/2003
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL RETURN LINE HOSE FITTING ON THE ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP MAY BE RESTRICTED, CAUSING EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE TO BUILD UP IN THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM. EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE MAY RESULT IN A LEAK IN THE FUEL RETURN HOSE.
NHTSA 16V401000
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module
Date: 03/06/2016
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2001-2002 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus vehicles, equipped with beige interiors. The affected vehicles were previously repaired for a recall issue using an incorrect part. The incorrect part may n…
NHTSA 96V075000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder
Date: 03/05/1996
THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER CAN LEAK BRAKE FLUID DUE TO A DAMAGED DOUBLE LIP REAR PISTON SEAL.
NHTSA 06E091000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 02/11/2006
CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULES, P/NOS. E7089M, E7094M, E7113M, AND E7129M, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 1 AND SEPTEMBER 24, 2006. THESE FUEL PUMP MODULES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE IN CERTAIN DAIMLERCHRYSLER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SILICONE MATERIAL USED IN MANUFACTURE OF T…
NHTSA 04V532000
Seat Belts › Rear/Other
Date: 02/11/2004
ON CERTAIN SEDANS, THE LEFT AND RIGHT REAR OUTBOARD RETRACTOR AND TURNING LOOP BOLTS ON THE SEAT BELTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY TIGHTENED.
NHTSA 00V299002
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine
Date: 02/10/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE HARNESS FOR THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH A NEW PROTECTIVE SHIELD CAUSING A GROUNDED CIRCUIT.
NHTSA 15V338000
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module
Date: 02/06/2015
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2000-2005 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 5, 1999, to December 17, 2004, 2001-2005 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured January 19, 2000, to March 18, 2005, 2001-2005 Chrysler Sebring vehicles manufa…
NHTSA 96V074000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Date: 02/05/1996
CORROSION OF THE ABS HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT CAN CAUSE THE SOLENOID VALVES TO STICK IN THE OPEN POSITION.
NHTSA 00V067000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting
Date: 02/03/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH UNPAINTED FUEL TANK STRAPS.
NHTSA 00V066000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 02/03/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH INCORRECT CHILD LOCK INSTRUCTION LABELS.
🔴 DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE

53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.

Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
!BRAKE
Brake System WarningBrakes
K
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
+−
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
!BRAKE
ABS WarningBrakes
!BRAKE
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
!BRAKE
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
!
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
S
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
N
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
!
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
?
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
L
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
L
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
AC
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
A
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
L
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
A
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
A
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
A
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
A
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
!
Door Open WarningBody
!
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
📢 REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)

2676 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Dodge Stratus across model years 1995–2006. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.

239 crash reports 234 fires 187 injuries 4 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 1996553
Model year 1997349
Model year 1995316
Model year 1998272
Model year 1999251
Model year 2000215
Model year 2001186
Model year 2002163
Most reported components (all years)
Engine And Engine Cooling924
Service Brakes306
Power Train281
Hydraulic281
Steering277
Suspension262
Sample reports
TIRE HAD A BULGE AT THE BEAD LINE. HAD A SLOW LEAK AND WAS OUT OF BALANCE. I RETURNED THE TIRE TO FIRESTONE. THEY SHOWED ME THAT THE TIRE WAS MISSING RUBBER AT ALONG THE TIRE BEAD AND WAS NOT REPAIRABLE. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED AT NO C… (MY 1997)
I STARTED THE CAR, PLACED MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND IT WENT TO THE FLOOR. I EXITED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND A LARGE POOL OF FLUID ON THE RIGHT FRONT OF THE CAR. ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON. MASTER CYLINDER WAS NEAR EMPTY. I HAD THE CAR TOWED… (MY 1998)
THE FRONT OIL SEAL CAME OUT OF ITS SEAT CAUSING MASSIVE OIL LEAK. AFTER ENGINE REMOVAL AND DISASSEMBLY I FOUND THE WRONG LOWER MAIN THRUST BEARING WAS INSTALLED. THIS CAUSED EXCESSIVE STRESS ON THE TOP THRUST BEARING CAUSING BEARING FAI… (MY 2006)
PRESSURE BUILD-UP IN THE GAS TANK CAUSED THE FUEL PUMP ASS'Y SEAL TO BLOW OUT AND GAS TO POUR OUT ON THE GROUND AS WELL AS FUMES IN THE VEHICLE. I HAD ALSO SMELLED GAS ON THE 23RD WHEN I FIRST HAD FILLED IT UP ON THE DAY OF PURCHASE. *AK (MY 2004)

Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1995–2006.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Dodge Stratus have any safety recalls?

Yes — 34 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT, SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM, FUEL SYSTEM. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.

What does fault code P0300 mean on the Dodge Stratus?

Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0128 mean on the Dodge Stratus?

Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0011 mean on the Dodge Stratus?

A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

Are steering problems common on the Dodge Stratus?

Yes — 359 of 2420 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “DODGE HAS RECALLED 1999-2000 STRATUS BECAUSE POWER STEERING FLUID IS LEAKING ON BACK OF ENGINE IN 2.4 LITER CARS. FIRE HAZARD. WE HAVE A 1995 SAME MOTOR SAME PROBLEM SINCE THE CAR HASN'T BEEN RECALLE…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are brakes problems common on the Dodge Stratus?

Yes — 364 of 2420 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the brakes. One owner reported: “I HAD THE REAR BRAKES FOR THE 1995 DODGE STRATUS REPLACED ON 3/01/2007 BECOUSE BRAKES WERE WORN OUT, AND HAVE SINCE THEN HAD THEM REPLACE 3 DIFFERENT TIMES. MECHANIC SHOP COULD NOT FIGURE OUT WHY.…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are engine problems common on the Dodge Stratus?

Yes — 629 of 2420 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, MY CAR STARTED TO OVERHEAT. WHEN I PULLED OVER, THE COOLANT WAS POURING OUT OF THE ENGINE. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A GARAGE AND WAS TOLD THAT IT FAILED THE 'BLOCK…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

What is the right battery for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006)?

The battery specified for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) is group 34 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 600A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.

What engine oil should I use on the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006)?

The engine oil specification for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) is Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.

Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006)?

Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.

How often should the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) be serviced?

Routine maintenance for the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.

This spec sheet is updated with data verified from OEM sources and shop databases. If you spot an inaccuracy or have additional data on the Dodge Stratus (1995–2006), let us know — every correction improves quality for all users.

Scroll to Top