Dodge Stratus problems
The Dodge Stratus is a mid-size car that was introduced by Dodge in December 1994 and was based on the 4-door sedan Chrysler JA platform. The Stratus, Plymouth Breeze, and Chrysler Cirrus were all on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1996 and 1997. It received critical acclaim at launch, but ratings fell over time. An updated version of the Stratus was introduced for 2001, with the Cirrus being renamed as the Chrysler Sebring, and a coupé model was also added to the range. Production ended in early 2006 at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant after building 1,308,123 Stratus and Sebrings since 2000.
The Dodge Avenger replaced the Stratus nameplate in early 2007 for the 2008 model year.
After the discontinuation of the Stratus sedan in 2006, the assembly line and tooling were sold to the Russian concern, GAZ, which manufactured 9,000 units of a very slightly modified Stratus from 2008 through 2010 called the Volga Siber.
Social links
Dodge Stratus model years
Common Dodge Stratus problems
The Dodge Stratus is a mid-size car that was produced from 1995 to 2006, and it is known to have several common issues that Dodge Stratus owners may encounter.
One of the most common problems with the Dodge Stratus SXT is related to the engine. Many owners have reported issues with oil leaks, which can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a damaged oil pan, faulty gasket, or a worn-out oil filter. Additionally, some owners have reported engine overheating, which may be caused by a faulty water pump or thermostat. These issues can result in engine failure if not addressed promptly.
Another issue that some owners have experienced with the Dodge Stratus SXT is related to the transmission. Some owners have reported transmission failure, which may be caused by a variety of factors such as worn-out clutches or gears, insufficient transmission fluid, or damage to the torque converter. These issues can result in a complete transmission failure, which is a significant repair that can be expensive to fix.
Owners of the Dodge Stratus SXT may also encounter issues related to the electrical system. For example, some owners have reported issues with the power windows, power locks, or interior lighting. These issues may be caused by damaged wiring or a faulty control module. These issues can be frustrating and may require expensive repairs to fix.
Finally, owners of the Dodge Stratus SXT may experience problems with the suspension system. Some owners have reported a clunking noise when driving over bumps or uneven roads, which may be caused by worn-out struts or sway bar links. These issues can affect the handling and ride quality of the vehicle and may require expensive repairs to fix.
In addition to these common issues, the Dodge Stratus has also been known to have problems with the dashboard cracking and breaking apart, which is a design defect in the car. The 2.7L engine in the Stratus has also been known to have issues with oil sludge buildup and sludge-related engine failure, which is a significant problem that can result in engine failure.
To address these common issues, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and repairs on the Dodge Stratus. This includes regular fluid changes, replacing the fuel filter regularly, and keeping the fuel tank clean. Electrical issues should be addressed promptly by fixing wiring problems and replacing faulty parts. Regular maintenance and repairs are essential for keeping the suspension in good condition.
In conclusion, the Dodge Stratus is a mid-size car that has several common issues that Dodge Stratus owners may encounter. These issues include engine problems, transmission failure, electrical issues, and suspension problems. To address these issues, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and repairs on the vehicle. By taking care of the Dodge Stratus and performing regular maintenance, owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering these common issues. When problems do arise, it's essential to address them promptly to prevent them from worsening and causing more significant issues.
Are Dodge Stratus reliable?
So reliable car!
At least 2 times a year, for the last 5 years I had to repair it. Parts are difficult to find and original or replacement parts, last the same time. I used it every day and its nice to drive. Never failed while driving because any malfunction.
Why was the Dodge Stratus discontinued?
During this time, sales declined as its ratings by consumer and auto magazines fell among competing mid-size cars. At the same time sedan market had shifted with the larger Intrepid and later Charger achieving record sales.
How many miles to the gallon does a Dodge Stratus get?
Based on data from 27 vehicles, 1,554 fuel-ups and 346,004 miles of driving, the 2005 Dodge Stratus gets a combined Avg MPG of 22.70 with a 0.19 MPG margin of error.
When was the last Dodge Stratus made?
The Dodge Stratus continued to be sold through the 2006 model year.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Stratus years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Stratus cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Stratus model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Stratus model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Stratus years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Stratus car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Stratus , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Stratus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Stratus model years
A total of 248 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Stratus model years
There were a total of 242 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Stratus model years
There were a total of 203 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Stratus model years
There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3008 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Stratus . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Stratus vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Stratus 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-24
- VIN: 1B3EL46X93N
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: The problem is not with the tire itself, but with the lug nuts holding the tire on the car. In the past year I have had at least six lug nuts fail. I have had a rash of flat tires, mostly related to nails. In attempting to remove the tires to put on the spare, the chrome caps on the nuts have come off. In the first incident, I was able to strip the cover off the internal nut by hand. In attempting to remove the internal nut, the softer metal was stripped. I was forced to drive on a flat tire home to try and remove the rest of the nut. I had to call a tow truck to haul my car into the shop where they had to cut off the nut. I can document this and three other occasions of the lug nuts being stripped when trying to remove a bad tire. I can document an occasion when the shop replaced two faulty nuts when repairing one of my tires. In the most recent occasion, I was able to remove the tire. However, when handling the lug nuts the chrome cap came off in my hand. I am able to strip these caps and nuts by hand using an "X" lug wrench, which I had to buy because the wrench that came with the vehicle twisted out of shape while trying to remove the lug nuts. The shop is aware of this problem, and they keep putting these defective lug nuts back on. At my age, it is inconceivable that I would be able to strip these caps and lug nugs by hand. I have the documents, I can get you pictures, but I am not a computer whiz and am currently having problems getting my printer to link up with my PC to download files to send. I will have a family member copy this information and email it to me so I can attempt to send it to you with your reply.
Dodge Stratus 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-27
- VIN: 1B3EL36T53N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Car was owned by school govement it has been worked on several times for bad suspension.and documented.ball joint bad suspension front and back.back dating 2 or 3 years.no accidents just bad suspension
Dodge Stratus 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-08
- VIN: 1B3EL36X93N
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: When replacing the Clock Spring I noticed the Airbag serial number matched numbers from other vehicles for recall but my vehicle was not listed in recall.Vin number [XXX] 2003 Dodge Stratus Sedan INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dodge Stratus 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-10
- VIN: 1B3EL46X26N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Dodge Stratus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard an abnormal sound coming from the front passenger’s side of the vehicle. The contact stated that she parked and inspected the vehicle and became aware of the control arm on the ground, the tire pushed away from the vehicle, and bolts and screws on the ground underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Dodge Stratus 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-30
- VIN: 1B3EL46X96N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The entire front suspension feels as though it is going to fall outward at any moment. I have had this inspected by two separate dodge dealerships. I’ve also had this inspected by friends that are mechanics. I also have knowledge and I know something is not right with the control arms tire rods, ball joints. The front suspension is horrible. I worry every day. I’m gonna runoff the road or I’m gonna hit someone or something bad is gonna happen. Upon doing my research, I saw many other Dodge Stratus vehicles that were recalled for the same exact reason. My question is why was my car left out of the recall when clearly it has major safety issues.
Dodge Stratus 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-15
- VIN: 1B3EL36T04N
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump went out and in order for me to replace the fuel pump you have drop the tank. I could not get the intake hose off or the smaller fuel line along side it off. And there very little room to work with to get it off. And I have purchased the vehicle a little over a year ago and was not told about any recalls on this vehicle
Dodge Stratus 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-27
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-27
- VIN: 1B3EL46X05N
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown the only thing that I can tell you for sure is that struts are bad Call was like this when I bought it
Dodge Stratus 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-29
- VIN: 1b3el46x24n
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Dodge Stratus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made abnormal sounds and then lost motive power. Additionally, the front passenger's side ball stud separated from the ball joint housing, and the front passenger's side tire was stuck on the fender, preventing the engine from falling onto the ground. The failure almost caused a collision. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. While the vehicle was being placed on the flatbed tow truck, the oil filter fractured and detached. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.
Dodge Stratus 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-08
- VIN: 1B3EJ56H7XN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving the vehicle I came to a stop to make a left hand turn and as I started without warning the vehicle stalled and lost power of steering wheel and brakes I almost hit another car. This wasn't the 1st time car has stalled while driving but the one where is came close to causing an accident
Dodge Stratus 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-25
- VIN: 1B3EL46R44N
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: 2.7 liter engine should be recalled and replaced because? 1. The internal water pump which have been known to wear out prematurely and destroy the engine regardless how well the owner maintains vehicle. 2. Subframe and rear suspension crossmember should be replace due to rotting out prematurely. 3 Gloss on paint prone to pealing.
Dodge Stratus 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-03
- VIN: 1B3EL46X74N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 DODGE STRATUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WERE UNKNOWN RATTLING SOUNDS COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, THE WHEELS WERE WOBBLING AS IF THEY WERE GOING TO DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BALL JOINTS ON THE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY WERE FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RELATED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10E059000 (SUSPENSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,508.
Dodge Stratus 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-22
- VIN: 1B3EL46X05N
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: SEATBELT SNAPPED OFF FROM CHEST RESTRAINT ON ONE SEAT, THE OTHER WAS LOCKING MECHANISM
Dodge Stratus 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-02-19
- VIN: 1B3EL46X06N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON STREET WAY WHEN LOWER CONTROL ARM ON DRIVER SIDE BROKE WHERE BALL JOINT IS..LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN FRONT OF ME OR AROUND ME WHILE DRIVING COULD OF CAUSED A SERIOUS WRECK..HAD TO CALL TOW TRUCK TO TOW IT BACK TO MY HOUSE
Dodge Stratus 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2021-02-10
- VIN: 4B3AG42G11E
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 DODGE STRATUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A BUMP IN THE ROADWAY AND WITHOUT WARNING, THE FRONT STRUT TOWER FRACTURED AND WENT THROUGH THE DRIVER'S SIDE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE RESIDENCE WHERE IT REMAINED AWAITING REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WENT TO C.R. MOTORS OF HUDSON (518 S MERIDIAN RD, HUDSON, MI 49247, (517)306-2561) AND REQUESTED INFORMATION ON REPAIRING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 193,000.
Dodge Stratus 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-08
- VIN: 1B3EL46R55N
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: GOT THIS CAR 2 YEARS AGO AND FROM DAY 1 WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES ALL THE WAY THE CAR IS ALMOST UNCONTROLABLE THE WHEEL PULLS ONE WAY OR THE OTHER BAD SO I HAVE TO PUMP THEM AND THEN IT STILL PULLS AND I HAVE REPLACED THE BRAKES 4 TIMES TO MAKE SURE IT WASNT THE DISC AND ALSO REPLACED THE WHEEL BEARINGS AND THE SHOP TOLD ME THE LOWER CONTROL ARM AND UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS ARE CRACKING UP AND SO ITS NOT SAFE FOR ME TO DRIVE AND I DONT HAVE THE MONEY TO BE REPLACING SOMETHING THAT SHOULDNT BE MESSED UP MY CAR HAS LOW MILES IT STARTED MAKIMG CLUNKING NOISES WHEM GOING OVER A BUMP AND ANY TIME CAR IS MOVING IT IS SQUEAKING NOISES COMING FRPM FRONT OF CAR
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Stratus
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 94 recalls for different components of the Dodge Stratus.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Stratus 2001
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-03
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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 not prevent the passenger side sun visor from detaching if the passenger frontal air bag deploys and the passenger side sun visor is folded down in a certain position.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify the affected owners. Dealers will install the correct tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2016, owners will be sent a second email when parts are available. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
- Model: Dodge Stratus 2002
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-03
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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 not prevent the passenger side sun visor from detaching if the passenger frontal air bag deploys and the passenger side sun visor is folded down in a certain position.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify the affected owners. Dealers will install the correct tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2016, owners will be sent a second email when parts are available. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
- Model: Dodge Stratus 2001
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-02
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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 manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
- Model: Dodge Stratus 2003
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-02
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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 manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
- Model: Dodge Stratus 2005
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-02
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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 manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
Latest negative Dodge Stratus car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Stratus car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2001
I recently bought the RT model car and it's super fast! It's really fun to drive and feels safe and responsive. The gas mileage is roughly 21 overall, even though I drive it hard. I only have a couple of complaints though. The second cupholder is a bit shallow and is located under the armrest, which can be a bit inconvenient. Additionally, there is an odd rattle that I've noticed, especially when coasting. However, it's not a major issue and I can live with it. Overall, it's definitely a fun car to have and it gets looks wherever it goes. Plus, it's cheap too! I bought mine for only 5 grand with under 60k on it.
-
Vehicle year: 2006
I bought this car with 24,000 miles on it and have been the second owner for 2 years and 55,000 miles. I must say, I have no complaints. I used to commute out of town for work, about 65 miles a day, and have gone on many out of town and out of state trips with this car. The only issue I've had is with the driver side window motor. The windshield does have a few spots, but nothing worth complaining about. Overall, I love this car and it was probably the best purchase I've made. If they still made them, I'd probably get another one.
-
Vehicle year: 1996
Hello! I'm the first registered owner of this vehicle and I've really enjoyed the ride and styling. However, I was hoping for better gas mileage. Unfortunately, at 50000 miles, the head gasket started leaking on the 2.4 ltr engine. Interestingly, I've heard from four other owners who have experienced the same issue with the same size engine. These other vehicles were from 1998, 1999, and 2000.
-
Vehicle year: 2000
Purchased new 09/1999 and have reviewed it once before on this site. Has been a good car. Other than the fact that the front disc brakes warp over time, I have no complaints on this car. I've spent ~$2400 over the last 1.5 years to completely revamp the A/C from the core to the compressor, but that's the first money I've had to spend. I had a very difficult to diagnose EGR valve problem. The engine would "hiccup". I finally figured out that the EGR valve was sticking open. I disconnected it and everything works fine. You have to reconnect it to pass emissions tests in LA, but that's only once/yr to get a new inspection sticker.
-
Vehicle year: 1999
I purchased this car back in September 2005 when it had 93k miles on it, making me the third owner. As of November 2011, it has almost 205,000 miles on it. Remarkably, almost all of the original parts are still working perfectly fine. It has always started up without any issues, and there are no strange noises, shakes or leaks. At 140k, I replaced the shocks, struts, fuel cleaning, and all the fluids and filters. I have been diligent with regular maintenance, which is why it has performed so well. I did have to replace the AC unit, EGR valve, tie rod, and fuel pump, as well as the water pump. Other than regular tire and brake replacements, that was about it. This is a basic, simple car that runs as well as the day it was created, as long as it is maintained properly. Unfortunately, most people do not maintain their cars. All in all, this car has been a great investment.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Stratus?
Koby Auer 2025-06-11
Vehicle year: 1997
My family now has two Stratuses, both '97s, both 2.0L and five-speed stick. Mine is Forest Green Metallic and my father's is Light Silver Fern Clearcoat. They are great little cars - cheap, peppy, and safe. My father's car has an impressive 230,000 miles on it, and he's only had to replace the infamous head gasket, the rear main seal (and consequently the clutch), and a left wheel bearing assembly. Even with all those miles, his car still gets an impressive 35-37 MPG on the highway. I just bought mine today, and I'm excited to see if it turns out as well as his has.
Dan Zemlak 2025-06-09
Vehicle year: 2001
My experience with Dodge was not great. The horsepower was disappointing and I had some issues with the CD changer and the driver side auto window function. The car also had some shaking issues while idling and a loud noise that the dealership couldn't fix. Additionally, the keyless remote had limited range and the trunk was difficult to latch. I had previously owned two Hyundai's and found them to be much better.
Alexander Swift 2025-06-09
Vehicle year: 2004
Overall, I've had a bit of trouble with my car. I bought it for $3,000, but I'm now selling it for $1,000 and haven't had any luck finding a buyer. I've had to spend quite a bit of money on repairs, including changing the batteries and spark plugs. Unfortunately, one of the spark plugs is still causing issues. Additionally, the car needs a new motor mount and the suspension makes a lot of noise when driving over small bumps. The mechanics have told me that the car has low oil pressure and it might be better to junk it and buy a new one. Despite these issues, I've only had the car for a year and it has 130k miles. I've learned that American cars can be a bit tricky, but I'm hopeful that I'll find a better one soon.
Rory Jacobs 2025-06-07
Vehicle year: 2001
I've owned my car since it was new. I read the other review about the black paint, and I can relate to the same problem. The top coat of paint just flakes off over time, which makes the car look like it has dry skin. It's been very disappointing, and I've given up washing it. Additionally, the dash is cracked in four places along the defrost vent, and I've had to replace the exhaust manifold due to cracks. However, the car performs well and kicks butt when you mash on the pedal. It gets reasonable mileage for a 4 banger, even at 141000 miles. If Dodge had put their own drive train in this car, it would have been like the Vega. Mitzu makes a good engine. Lastly, if you're 6' 2
Travis Torp 2025-06-05
Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased this car in May 2006 and during the test drive, it was perfect. I was immediately smitten! However, over time, I experienced a number of issues. Firstly, there were problems with the windshield, which was quite frustrating. Then, the dashboard became noisy and eventually cracked. I also had to replace the brake rotors frequently. The wiring for the rear view mirror was problematic and I had to rig it every day to get light in my car at night. Additionally, my radio stopped working and I had to purchase a new system. The engine also had some complications which were too numerous to detail. Unfortunately, my experience with this Dodge has left me feeling quite disappointed and I wouldn't recommend it. Period.