1997 Dodge Stratus review from North America
"Buy cheap, get high maintenance costs"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Hood latch replacement.
Tie rod ends were rusted.
Check engine light kept coming on due to a problem with the gas tank/cap.
Shifter almost engaged in reverse on its own.
Head gasket replaced twice!
Finally, locked up the motor after the final head gasket replacement due to an oil leak around the oil flues (passage ways).
General comments?
The car drives nice and is good on gas.
Handles pretty good for tight corners.
A bit noisy at interstate speeds.
Just got tired of adding oil for a car with only 40,000 miles...
Anyone who claims their Stratus is reliable either works for Chrysler or hasn't had theirs long enough.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | The neon of the mid-size car. GREAT PRICE |
![]() ![]() | 1996 - Stratus 2.4L, 4 cylinder. It's a reliable beast! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1999 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 0/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 12 miles |
| Most recent distance | 60000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Datsun |
| Date of Entry | 1st February, 2001 |

