1996 Dodge Stratus from North America - Comments

My head gasket blew at 120,000 miles.

My head gasket blew again at 129,000 miles.

My fuel pump went out 122,000 and again at 126,000 miles.

I have had to replace my lower balls joints 3 times.

My rear brake cylinders keep going out causing serious brake problems.

Drivers seat worn out badly.

My windshield wiper motor went out at 128,000 miles.

Whenever I wash the car or if it's raining outside, water-rain leaks in the front windshield all the time and cannot be re-sealed properly!!!

Please do not be fooled by the luxurious styling of this car, it's all about looks not quality. I know I got this car with high mileage, but at least other cars breakdown rates aren't this high or consistant... please whatever you do do not buy a Dodge Stratus... I call it the Raged Strategy... lol...

This car is so roomy and the shape is alluring... but do not buy this car!!!

Steve, I was wondering how you knew when it was appropriate time to replace your lower ball joints. I also have a dodge stratus, and I think they may be the problem, but cannot be absolutely positive. Thank you. Attn: Andre and other concerning Stratus owners.

Hey there,

this last post was a while back, but, any who... Ball joints that need to be replaced will make a 'clunking' sound when the car goes up curbs or over speed bumps. If you don't want to wait for this to happen, you can stick a pry-bar into the joint and try to move the arms around right at the ball joint. If there's movement, then they most likely need replacement.