1998 Dodge Stratus

Introduction:

The 1998 Dodge Stratus is a midsize sedan offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter inline-four with 132 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.5-liter V6 with 168 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque is also available. Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.

Owners generally praise the Stratus for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value for money. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical components, and interior.

Engine

2.0-liter Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust pipe, loss of coolant
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Shifter Linkage Failure:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace shifter linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Line Failure:
  • Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace transmission line
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Suspension

• Struts Failure:
  • Symptoms: Worn struts, poor handling, bumpy ride
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, electrical components malfunction
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Symptoms: Power windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Summary:

Overall, the 1998 Dodge Stratus is a reliable vehicle with few serious issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. These issues can be expensive to repair, but they are generally not catastrophic.