1997 Dodge Stratus review from North America
"The neon of the mid-size car. GREAT PRICE"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Didn't have one problem with the car till 60000 miles. The car started to leak oil from the head gasket. I was loosing a quart every 1000 miles. Drive car to 102000 miles before installing a MLS head gasket. Replaced head gasket, water pump, timing belt, head bolts, valve cover gasket, cam position sensor gasket, valve cover gasket, idler, serpentine belt, power steering belt, intake manifold gasket, and thermostat. Most of the parts listed above are either routine maintenace for this car or are needed when replacing a head gasket. I am happy the DODGE redesigned the head gasket to a performance MLS gasket. I am going to keep the car until it drops. I should be able to get 250000 miles be a new car.
General comments?
The car is fun to drive is you like driving a stick.
The engine noise is louder that a camry or accord.
The interior room is bar none.
The gas mileage is what I bought the car for, and getting in the mid 30,s is GREAT.
Beware, the head gasket, ball joints, and brakes are a problem with this model.
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| A fun car to drive with great fuel economy |
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| 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 | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0L SOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 114095 miles |
| Previous car | Chrysler LeBaron |
| Date of Entry | 14th March, 2004 |