1998 Dodge Stratus Base review from North America
"Great performance, good used car value"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission slips a bit (needs a good fluid flush).
Left outer mirror does not adjust electrically.
Front cup holders are barely functional.
All power windows sound like they're straining when they go up or down.
Braking power is functional but not inspiring, sometimes squeaky.
Be sure to follow the "Severe Service" maintenance schedule and do routine inspections of the car (lights, etc.). If you get a domestic car you have to expect regular maintenance - period.
General comments?
This car flat out flies! Very good pickup in the low-to-mid-RPM range. Handling is well above average, could be improved by performance tires (I have granny-car Michelins now). I really enjoy the car and would recommend it.
Maintenance is very straight-forward and not terribly complex, parts are readily available and of average cost. I'll be keeping a log of my experiences with this car at http://www.qis.net/~xwordz/stratus.html.
Recommended reviews
| Smooth ride, great sound system, looks great |
|
| 1997 - Stratus 2.0 litre 4 cylinder If you buy one, trade it after it's paid off! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 47000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 49000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 3rd April, 2001 |