2006 Dodge Stratus

Okay, here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2006 Dodge Stratus, formatted as requested.

The 2006 Dodge Stratus was offered as a sedan and a coupe. It was a mid-size vehicle aimed at providing affordable transportation. The sedan offered two engine options: a 2.4L inline-4 producing approximately 150 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7L V6 making around 186 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque. The coupe variant provided a 2.4L inline-4 producing approximately 147 hp and 158 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 making around 200 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque. Generally, owners appreciate the Stratus’ affordability and spacious interior. Common dislikes include its unremarkable styling, perceived reliability issues, and somewhat dated interior design.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls intermittently, or fails to start. Check engine light illuminates with codes related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, misfires, or runs rough. Check engine light illuminates with codes related to the camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: This engine is known for potential sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected. Can lead to oil starvation and engine damage. Ticking noises may be present before catastrophic failure.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil. If sludge is present, professional engine cleaning or potentially engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change) to $3000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

For all engines

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at highway speeds. Difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips during gear changes, shifts harshly, or fails to shift. May be accompanied by warning lights.
  • Solution: Fluid change can sometimes help, but often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) to $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front end, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side, depending on parts and labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, non-functional horn, loss of steering wheel controls.
  • Solution: Replace the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate, or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light comes on, vehicle struggles to start or stalls, dimming headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in northern climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, door edges, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected panels. Rust prevention treatments can help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ (for small repairs) to $1000+ (for extensive repairs/panel replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement dashboard or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material begins to detach from the roof.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Dodge Stratus has some notable issues, particularly with the 2.7L V6 engine’s sludge buildup and the common transmission problems. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also relatively frequent complaints. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission work, can be costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any prospective vehicle before purchase, paying particular attention to maintenance records.