1997 Dodge Stratus Base review from North America
"A great car with a terrible drive terrain!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My head gasket blew at 50,000 miles.
Needed new timing belt.
At 75,000 miles the engine knocks severely when cold, even after a perfect maintwence record. Ex. I change oil every 3,000 miles using only Mobil 1 tri synthetic, and quality Fram filters.
Replaced brakes once.
General comments?
I really like this car for several reasons. I like its great cornering with my 17" rims and the roomy interior.
I find the 5 speed manual transmission a necessity when paired with the 4 Cyl. 2.0L engine.
The above combination allows for great gas millage, as well as acceptble performance.
My biggest complaint is the problimatic engine components. I believe no car should need a head gasket at 50,000 miles, or a new engine at 75,000 miles under acceptible care and maintence.
Recommended reviews
| A fun car to drive with great fuel economy |
|
| 1996 - Stratus 2.4L, 4 cylinder. It's a reliable beast! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L 4 cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 75000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford F150 |
| Date of Entry | 19th April, 2002 |