2005 Dodge Stratus

Introduction:

The 2005 Dodge Stratus is a mid-size sedan that was offered with a choice of two engines and two transmission options. The base engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, while the optional engine was a 3.0-liter V6 that produced 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.

Owners of the 2005 Dodge Stratus generally praise the vehicle for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, the Stratus has also been criticized for its lack of power, particularly with the base four-cylinder engine.

Engine

2.4L I4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt breaks, causing the engine to stop running
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and other related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, or overheating
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting erratically or not at all
  • Solution: Replace the valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Five-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise, vibration, and harshness over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise while turning
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system not working
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not starting
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture inside the headlights
  • Solution: Remove the headlights and clean out the moisture
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Repair or replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Deployment Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbags not deploying in a crash
  • Solution: Inspect and repair the airbag system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Number: 05V219000

Summary:

The 2005 Dodge Stratus is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some potential issues to be aware of. The most common problems are related to the intake manifold gasket, torque converter, and power windows. However, these issues are typically not severe and can be fixed for a relatively low cost. Overall, the Stratus is a good choice for someone looking for an affordable and comfortable mid-size sedan.