2002 Dodge Stratus

Introduction

The 2002 Dodge Stratus is a mid-size sedan available with three engine options: a 2.4L 4-cylinder, a 2.7L V6, and a 3.0L V6. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Stratus is praised for its comfortable interior and responsive handling, but it is criticized for its lack of power, especially with the 4-cylinder engine.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, misfires
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: N/A

2.7L V6

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine damage
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Intake Valve Sticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, misfires, rough idle
  • Solution: Clean or replace intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: N/A

3.0L V6

• No Known Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: N/A

4-Speed Automatic

• Overdrive Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to shift into overdrive, reduced fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace overdrive solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Belt Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, erratic shifting
  • Solution: Replace CVT belt and pulleys
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Strut Mounts Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Unable to turn on headlights
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Tail Light Wiring Harness Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights not working
  • Solution: Replace wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard Panel Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to operate power windows
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Dodge Stratus has a moderate number of issues. The engine and transmission problems can be serious and expensive to fix, while the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are generally less severe and less costly. However, the Stratus is a reliable and affordable sedan that offers a comfortable ride and responsive handling.