[ Home | FAQ-Related Q&As | General Q&As | Answered Questions ]

Search the Q&A Archives

I have a 1996 Dodge Stratus ES that I've had to put 5...

<< Back to: rec.autos.makers.chrysler FAQ, Part 1/6

Answer by Eric L
Submitted on 12/14/2003
Rating:	Rate this answer:
Dodge Stratus, Chrysler cirrus, and Plymouth Breeze don't have a "distributor"... at least not the kind that most other cars use. The distribution is controlled by a PCM unit... aka: Powertrain Control Module. There is an electronic distributor that is controlled by that PCM. If you have had to replace that many electronic distributors, have a tech trace the electrical pathways leading up to and from that unit. If they are all good, then your PCM is messing up, and should be rebuilt. I would try having it rebuilt before just replacing it... they are well over $600 for a new one from mopar. Any 5 star dealership should be able to tell if it's actually the PCM messing up. If it is, that's your problem.

Answer by CN
Submitted on 12/29/2003
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 1997 Dodge Stratus. I have had to have the PCM replaced because the car stalls intermittently when idling, usually after it was warmed up. When the car stalls it is like someone turned off the car via the ignition. If you are not paying attention and the radio is on you may not even realize the car stalled. Then the car would go into a "no start condition" where the car wouldn't start up immediately after stalling (maybe 30 seconds or longer). It appears that the electronics need to cool before starting up again. When the car really gets warmed up the stalling increases and becomes more difficult to start. Even if you keep the idle up you can tell the car wants to cut out but doesn't. The error code that comes up is for the cam sensor. The cam sensor has been replaced 3 times as well as the crank sensor for good measure. My mechanic has determined that the signal is good from the sensors to the PCM when it is in the no start condition. But the PCM just doesn't see it. Anyway since the PCM was replaced the car ran fine for 6.5 weeks with relatively warm weather here in the northeast. But then the problem returned. My mechanic diagnosed the car again because the likelihood of it being the PCM a second time was slim. But there it was again, he said this PCM was the culprit as well. Since it was a rebuilt one it may have had the same error as before. So now I need to replace the thing again. Is this truly the PCM or is there another problem? Why if it is a cam sensor error does the car not start up right away? Is there something else causing the PCM to go bad? Is this a common problem with Chrysler PCM's

Answer by Wpotterygirl
Submitted on 4/30/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I also have a 96 Dodge Stratus. About 2 months ago, my oil light started to come on, but everything was OK w/the oil. About a week later, my "door" courtesy light started coming on whenever the car was put into gear, so I had to turn my interior light off altogether so it wouldn't stay on. Next, my "brights" icon appears on the dash whenever my lights are on, whether or not the brights are actually on. After that my power locks started acting up. I can always unlock, but once the car is started, I cannot lock my doors. Then my radio and clock went. Sometimes I can see a single line of light where the clock used to be (like part of a number is there) and my antenna goes up when I turn on the radio, but there's no display and no sound. And, of course, my air conditioning died. I'm petrified that my power windows will go too, and with no air, I'll suffocate this summer. (did I mention that my moon roof has leaked for 2 years??) I took the car to a Dodge dealer, who said that I need to replace the oil switch, ignition switch, multifunction switch, body controller, and radio, but that might not fix the problem. My brother in law is a mechanic and will be looking at my car next week - does anyone have any ideas? I can't believe that all of those parts would go bad within a few weeks of each other. Help!!!

Answer by mysticalfairy
Submitted on 5/26/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 95 Dodge Stratus that I HATE! It has spent more time in the shop than I have spent driving it. I think I have spent more on repairs than the car is worth. When I bought it at first, it was great, other than the clinging under the hood...BRAND NEW! Then at 72,000 miles, I had to get a new transmission put in it. Not mush longer, new alternator. Then my tachometer went on the fritz. Hasn't worked again. My air system COMPLETELY went out at just 76,000. I had to get most parts replaced. Again at 82,000, I had to have it replaced again. Different shops I might add. At around 90,000 or so, it left my 8 month old daughter and I stranded on the side of the road in 90 degree weather, and I had to walk 1 mile carrying her in the heat. Ended up being the alternator again. After all of that was fixed, it started idling funny. When I am at a stoplight, it cuts off. Mainly when I am running the air conditioner, but it does it even when I'm not. When I am at a stoplight, I can't wait to go because my car shakes and the RPMs are only at 500 or so. I have to end up putting it in neutral and hitting the gas a little to keep it from cutting off. On and off from there until now, I have had numerous little problems. Mainly with the air and other things. Now I am at 130,000, A LOT, I know, but considering all of the parts are mainly new, I would hope it would make it this far. My car started not coming out of 2nd gear, and they thought it was the throttle sensor.....but guess what....the stinking transmission again. My car is now only worth $1,250, and needs a new transmission worth more than the car. Well, time to get a new car, but Chrysler won't be seeing me in the next few centuries.

Answer by Laura
Submitted on 6/23/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 1997 Status ES.. It has just shy of 180,000 miles on it.. The problems until now have only been linked with the front suspension and I drive it hard... This is going to sound horrible but I NEVER keep up with the maintenance.. The last oil change was about a year ago.. finally a month ago I added some (Although the only oil that has been in it since 30,000 miles has been castrol syntec 100% synthetic..) Other then that only once has it gotten plugs or anything... It was having trouble shifting cold in winter (ALL WINTER) and finally this spring I checked the trans fluid it was bone dry... I have beat the living day lights out of this car.. I has been worth every last cent.

Answer by Pinar
Submitted on 6/26/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I just got a 97 dodge stratus last month and let me tell u when i say i want to wring the dealers neck who said the rough idle was normal. Th echeck engine light came on about 20 days later and it was bucking so he said a something flooded and he fixed it for free, now its still bucking and i can't really get going until 40mph...the idle is so rough as well that i can't even explain. Also the starter is funny some morning it just doesn't start at all but 30 seconds later it starts up like a beauty. Some says I just need a tune up or my wires are bad but after reading this site i wich i could go back and still be driving my ford tempo that was on the verge of dying. No one will even buy this car from me with the way it sounds, help!

Answer by Shaun
Submitted on 8/17/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Well I have a 1996 dodge stratus A.K.A steal all my money and a P.O.S. If you are even looking to buy this car make sure you have a fat wallet. Well I got 104,000 miles on it right now. Not bad!!! lol Well the first owner had the head gasket blow out on him. Then dummy me bought the car later Lets start the list; transmission went out 3 times at 70,000 then the egr went out, then the poor guy behind me on the Highway 202 in Phoenix, Az. Watched my a/c blow up and shatter all over his car. Right now my car is stalling out at 70mph I don�t know what it is?? I just change the fuel filter of course it didn�t work. WELL TO THE LADY THAT WANTS THIS CAR RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Do not waste your time and money on this car unless you don�t want to put your kids through college.

Answer by mr_OH
Submitted on 9/8/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a '95 Stratus ES, bought it at 124,000 miles. An old friend who was a Chrysler mechanic told me to avoid the 4 cylinder engine models completely, they had the most problems. If you see a good deal on one of these, don't buy it!!! Try for a camry or accord from the same year. I don't get it, these cars have so many problems, but people still keep them, modify them, and love them! Now I've had a slow leak coming from the oil pressure switch for some time. I want to install a new unit and/or seal the leak with something. Most recent is the engine light code for intermittent loss of cam/crank sensor signal. Oh boy, I can't wait to see what the problem is! No stalling yet, it just comes on after the car has been running for awhile. If you are a dedicated problem solver with the right tools and some extra time on your hands, you too can be the proud owner of a stratus!

Answer by Dan
Submitted on 11/13/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
If you decide to change any electronics, like the (TCM) Transmission Control Module... Be sure to ground yourself. Even a small amount of static electricity can cause an arc and blow a brand new unit. Most shops have (On-Board-Diagnostic)OBD Tools or you can purchase some inexpensive hand held units. This tool, once plugged in, will reveal a code. This code will point to or indicate suspect items. It's a start. Codes and their designated meanings can be found through Chrysler, your mechanic, in books such as a 'Haynes' or 'Chilton' manual, for your car. (Auto store purchase) OBD does not always find "intermittent" problems due to that fact that a code will usually only reveal something that is not working correctly.In other words if you shut your car off and the computer resets itself the OBD might not locate the problem until it surfaces again. I suggest have a dealer do a diagnostic before spending big bucks. You usually pay more for a 'Dealer' but they are far more familiar with 'that' make/ model then the guy who only occassionally make work on 'that'typemake/model.

Answer by Dan
Submitted on 1/8/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 96 Stratus 2.0L manual that was dying on the road. I went to the dealer and had the cam and crank sensors replaced but continued to have the same problem. 2 weeks ago, my car wouldn't start because of a dead battery and I had it replaced. Somehow, I haven't had the stalling problem since. The old battery was the original battery (8 years old). Maybe I had a bad ground. I also had the drive belt changed. By the way, there is a way of running on-board diagnostics without a special tool. Just turn the key on-off-on-off-on within 5 seconds and count the blinking of the "check engine" light. Of course, you will need a chart of the trouble codes. You can order a factory repair manual and it will have everything in it. Good luck.

Answer by Candy
Submitted on 2/28/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I've had problems with my 1999 Dodge Stratus from the day of purchase. As of now it's in the auto body shop after being hit on the driver's side by somebody who left the scene of the accident. There was not anything mechanically wrong with it when I took it in for the body work but when the autobody shop went through their check list to make sure my vehicle was working properly and the repairs were done they realize that the left passenger door wouldn't lock. after a couple of weeks they took it to a Dodge dealership and was told the control module needed to be replaced. The autobody shop was told to replace it with a used part per my insurance company but it didn't work. According to the dealership's mechanics, the control module has to be programmed to my vehicle VIN# and odometer and it wouldn't work with the used module, therefore a new one needs to be ordered costing about $800. I advice any one who's thinking about buying a Dodge Stratus or Chrysler vehicle to not waist their money. I would rather use a bicycle for transportation than spend my hard earned money on junk.

Answer by Ariosto Silva
Submitted on 3/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Hi, I bought a 1998 Stratus LX and during 1 month or so it was great, then I started having two strange problems: a)The check engine light turned on while I was driving and the car kind of "choke" as it was going to stall but then it re-started (all instruments in panel such as speed and rpm went to zero as if the car was going to stop); b)While I�m driving the gear seems to go neutral and I can�t accelerate the car anymore, the instruments all freeze (this makes difficult to notice the problem since we believe the the car is still as the same speed, according to the panel) and slowly the car stalls.When re-starting the car started working fine; However this week, after having the problem b) the car would not start again. I checked the fuses and found nothing burned, the mechanic took a look and he said there was no electricity in the sparkers, any ideas? Best regards, Ariosto

Answer by Frankie
Submitted on 6/28/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I just bought a 96 dodge stratus es 2.5 v6 with the autostick transmission and let me tell you that this car has been nothing but a problem from the day i got it.I got if from a used car dealer of course no warranty and 2 days after i got it the damn thing wouldn't start. Thats wierd because it ran great on the test drive. After a few days of trying to figure it out my self i took it to pep boys and they diagnosed both the pcm and the pcm plug.Dodge doesn't sell a pcm plug as a replacement part so i had to go to a junk yard and get one (if u ever do this make sure it is the exact same year as the one u have and same engine because the plugs look the same from other years but are different). And once u cut it its yours.I used butt connectors to splice them together but thats a bad idea i had to redo it again soldering the wires and using heat shrink tubing to seal them again.Then a friend of a friend said his friend had a pcm the numbers didn't match but he said it didn't matter and i trusted him because i know him to be a really good mechanic so i bought it and the car started right up.But the abs light was on and the check eng light also.The a/c didn't wanna work and the transmission shifted funny.It wanted to stall when i stopped and i was mad i figured out that it was the pcm when i called dodge and asked what numbers interchange with the one i had originally.There were 10 number but the one i bought wasn't one of them.so i called my friends friend and told him but they didn't wanna give me my money back because it was an electrical part so i lost my money there.And after hunting all around Orlando and Tampa for a pcm i couldn't find one i finally found one online from a salvage yard in Pennsylvania and bought it and now everything works including the a/c which in Florida is a must have.So two weeks into the car i replaced the pcm and plug.The starter fuse blows every week and has done so before the new pcm and 1 day going to work my horn started blowing and wouldn't stop i punched the wheel and it stopped and started again so finally i removed the horn relay now i have no horn.But before i took the relay out if i turned the wheel the horn would stop blowing but if i put it straight again it started again.And i also found out that after the battery power is disconnected u have to take car to Chrysler so they can relearn the transmission for optimal shifting or it shifts funny.I would say the best thing about this car is the leather interior and cockpit design thats it.Now i need new strut mounts front and rear motor mounts brakes and to find out what that clicking sound is when i accelerate and decelerate and today when the car was cold it hesitated on acceleration.I wonder what else is gonna go wrong with this piece of junk stratus.

Answer by Misterrebel
Submitted on 9/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have read all of these questions and I have a 1996 Sebring convertible 2.4L I also replaced cam sensor crank sensor and even the coil, even the very hard to get to fuel filter although replacing the fuel filter increased power.This still didn't solve the problem of bucking,cutting out, poor fuel mileage, It wouldn't do it all the time usually when my woman drove it. I believe it or not replaced the spark plug wires, the old ones looked brand new but I still replaced them. I tell you what this car has never ran like it does now. I think it was a combination of fuel filter and wires. By the way the fuel filter took me awhile to find. It is on top of fuel tank {Stupid} tank has to come down to replace it. At least they did put a drain plug in the tank. Don't attempt to remove it by yourself getting it down aint so bad but putting it back up takes two. Now on to my Question is there anyway to change the way it shifts example{detent cable}or a {computer chip}.

Answer by RoadRunner
Submitted on 9/10/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Ok since this seems to just be a ranting post with no answers or solutions, I will give my story as well. 2 weeks ago I bought a used 96 Stratus with 125,000 miles on it. Replaced the tires with 4 new ones, did an alignment, changed oil (with filter), trans fluid, coolant, AC recharged, new front pads and rotors, new drums, cylinders, brake shoes. So far the car runs great on the highway, flickers the oil lamp on idle though there is no real vibration that I can notice. Is it a ticking time bomb? I don't know. I really just need this car to work, thats it. I will be changing the oil at 3000-4000 mile intervals, I will get the timing belt replaced soon. This is my first car and I am just praying that it doesn't leave me stranded. Most of the money I had went into purchasing and reconditioning this car. I am a college student so I don't have a solid income. Crossing my fingers!

Answer by Seatiger
Submitted on 9/12/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
The Dodge Stratus can be a reliable car like mine, with 180,000 miles on it, or a hell. 1) NO START CONDITION: if the car "clicks" but doesn't starts, check: Positive battery Cable could be loose or terminals dirty Solenoid could be failing Try giving the starter motor some impact and vibration therapy with a metal stick. Whack it a couple times with moderate force and it'll run run run. 2) TRANSMISSION: NEVER ADD ANY TRANSMISSION FLUID OTHER THAN CHRYSLER/MOPAR ATF+3. Adding DEXRON or other oil will KILL your transmission. Always check the fluid level and if having any XMission problems, CHANGE THE OIL WITH ATF+3 and install a new TRANSMISSION FILTER. Most 41TE Transmissions return to happiness with that. 3) ALWAYS check the hose between the fuel supply line and the fuel injector lines. There it is a RECALL and TSB on this. Install a replacement hose with FUEL INJECTION HOSE made by BOSCH for the VW JETTA, it comes with a protection against heat. 4) ROUGH IDLE: check the SPARK PLUGS. They must have a correct GAP and the tip must be PLATINUM. The best engine on Stratus is the 2.4 DOHC IMHO.

Answer by nekura*
Submitted on 12/2/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
my wife and i recently acquired a 97 stratus 4cyl. it ran absolutely great for the last 3 months that we've had it - it has 219,000KM. maybe not as often as i should, but i do check the fluid levels and always ensure there's enough gas and oil. 2 days ago at low idle, the car stalls. first time it's ever happened in it's history (know the previous owner that had it since birth). yesterday it wouldn't start at all. checked fluid levels again and it's all topped up. i've seen many sites talking about this issue, and it's probably either PCM, oil/fuel pump, or timing belt. i'm hoping it's the belt, but will find out tonight when i get it towed to the mechanic. THINGS TO LOOK FOR: does your NO BUS light come on when you try to start it? this indicates an onboard computer problem, where the two computers cannot communicate. if the oil light comes in, it could mean that there's no oil pressure, and therefore could be oil pump. timing belt i'm sure you all know the symptoms so i'll just post back here and let you know what the mechanic finds.

Answer by jeane
Submitted on 3/14/2006
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I also have a 1996 dodge stratus. I love my car but I have also replaced the transmission and all seals 2 times!! and replaced the head gasket. I've had it for 2 yrs and after all that it still leaks oil and transmission fluid. I keep my car well maintained so I know it's not from a lack of maintenance on my part. Now it has been stalling out on me also for 6 mths and I have replaced the whole ignition system hoping I wouldn't have to dig deeper but alas, I think it has many more problems. I am a single mom so I cant afford to buy a new car so I guess I'll keep fixing this one and adding oil and transmission fluid weekly. I still love my car b/c it's paid for and it's my baby. Just hate all of the problems. I wouldn't buy another one. Oh! I have had 5 recalled parts I had to get fixed on it also. One of them being a shifter interlock part that could cause your stratus to come out of park for no reason. Good luck!

Answer by wendy
Submitted on 4/19/2006
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 1999 chrysler concord. It ran fine for about the first 6 months. The first things that started going out was all the lights in the car, so we replaced them. Then my blower on the heater will only work on high speed. Now my car idols funny. It runs great for about 8 miles until it gets hot. Then if I'm a stop light I have to put it in neutral and give it gas from dieing. When I driving however it feels like someone is cutting the fuels supply off to the car. Here's the kicker and I'm not sure how these to can be related. When I have the heat turned to full blast it won't give me any problems. The check engine codes say that it is cam/ crank sensor. I have replaced the crank and spark plugs. After changing the sparks plugs it now reads cam/ crank senosr and #1 coil is not reaching peak. Hmmmm do I need to worry about the PCM like I have been reading???

Answer by Joey
Submitted on 10/23/2006
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
We have a 2002 dodge stratus SE(plus, that we bought in California) and ever since we've had it(original owners, 57,000 miles) we've had a no start issue. when the car was under warranty we had everything from the ignition to the battery changed. worked for about a year, then its started up again. dies at random times. doesn't die when we are driving just won't start when we go to. it died on us 3 times this weekend alone. we bought a jump start kit yesterday because we are sick of asking people to jump our car. We've had the battery, and alternator check, and everyone says they are fine. we always keep up on our maintenance. I suggest that everyone here notify dodge, because there is obviously something wrong with the car that needs to be recalled, and since they discontinued the model this year(may,06). we are going to file a complaint. also when we get jumped the longer the other car is connected to us, the longer it will be until we have the issue again.

FAQS.ORG makes no guarantees as to the accuracy of the posts. Each post is the personal opinion of the poster. These posts are not intended to substitute for medical, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or other professional advice. FAQS.ORG does not endorse any opinion or any product or service mentioned mentioned in these posts.

<< Back to: rec.autos.makers.chrysler FAQ, Part 1/6

[ Home | FAQ-Related Q&As | General Q&As | Answered Questions ]

Question by Vic
Submitted on 8/11/2003
Related FAQ: rec.autos.makers.chrysler FAQ, Part 1/6
Rating:	Rate this question:
I have a 1996 Dodge Stratus ES that I've had to put 5 distributors in in the last year? Has anyone else had this problem?

Answer by Ren
Submitted on 10/9/2003
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 1996 Dodge Stratus and I have had to replace my pcm module twice, my body control module, my cam shaft sensor, my ignition coil three times and my ignition switch with in the past two years what is going on with my car. Now every time I try to start it the ignition fuel starter fuse blows out. Why is my car having so many electrical problems. I have been to several different certified technicians who can't exactly find the problem. I have even contact the two previous owners Please help

Answer by nezzer
Submitted on 11/27/2003
Rating:	Rate this answer:
My Chrysler Sebring started doing the fuse #8 blowing out thing today. I never had any problems with the car right up to when i parked it last night. Today, 3 blown fuses. Did you get any resolve to the problem?

Answer by j bogan
Submitted on 1/9/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
i have a 96 Dodge Stratus and the factory headlight assembly is way off, i cant even see where they are pointing when i drive. i need help and an answer to my problem of how to adjust the headlight assembly so that it will face in the direction that i would like to see.

Answer by EvilSquirtle666
Submitted on 2/9/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
When you have to replace your Head-Gasket(and you will),Raise hell with the the service person .It's a common problem but, alas no recall.They'll usually cut you a break on the $460 repair bill.The did for myself and all the people I know who have had this problem.

Answer by lynn
Submitted on 2/17/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I M THINKING ABOUT BUYING ONE ITS A 96 DODGE STRATUS AND I GOT A GOOD DEAL ON IT BUT IM CONCERNED ABOUT GETTING BURNT.. I DONT HAVE A LOT OF MONEY AND SMALL CHILDREN... BUT I WANT SOMETHING ATTRACTIVE AS WELL AS DEPENDABLE FOR LESS... HELP ??

Answer by Jason
Submitted on 2/21/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I too have a 96 Stratus, and have come across the same problems as everyone else who ever owned one. I have had to replace the head-gasket twice, brake system, my engine died and was replaced, as well as transmition. The chronic problems have been that the car looses its gear (especially in reverse) and then kicks back hard. The car also has rough idles sometimes and feels like its not getting enough gas or air. Sometimes stalling but all the electronics, like the sterio stays on. Im not sure if its the PCM or just a piece that needs to get some parts recalled.

Answer by jeffreyallan
Submitted on 3/5/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
This is of subject sort of. I have a 95 5.9L dodge ram. very similar problems. I wonder if dodge engineers were replaced by idiots in the early 90's. theyre vehicles are lucky to work right off the line, and then you put a few miles on it and its like the whole complete circuit is not built right. the PCM stops reading the cam sensor, swap PCM'sand it still sucks. change the cam sensor and the problem comes back shortly. I'm just trying to figure out why they want so much for theyre vehicles.

Answer by babba booey
Submitted on 3/7/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
stay away from chryslers and stay away from shops that make believe they know what they are doing.. right neil?

Answer by Jim
Submitted on 3/15/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 99 Stratus that I recently purchased at an abandoned vehicle auction. It was doing the "stalling while driving" thing until I had the upper and lower crank sensors replaced. Now it only dies when giving it gas in reverse. This is a problem if you happen to be parked pointed down a hill. It won't start for about 30 seconds or so. Has anyone heard of this?

Answer by yeti
Submitted on 3/27/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have had some of the worst problems with my 96 Stratus. First, I had to get the transmission replaced at just 69000 miles because it decided to grind itself into oblivion on a long roadtrip. The worst part is that no sensor ever was tripped so I had no warning. Second, I went through a couple weeks of replacing broken belts, getting a new waterpump, and several other misc. things that went wrong and I still only have 84000 miles on this car. Now Im dealing with the idling problem that everyone else seems to be having. I can say that I will never buy a vehicle from this company again.

Answer by Coors
Submitted on 4/26/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 96 stratus with the 2.4 and the only problem I have is the engine idles a little rough and I today I just broke my second transmission which was in for almost 90 days.

Answer by BLBinMICH
Submitted on 4/28/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 96 stratus with intermittent starting issues. The fuel pump, pcm, sensors, have all been replaced. The wiring has been checked. If the check engine light does not come on when the key is turned, the fuel pump does not pump fuel. After waiting 30 minute, the light comes on, the fuel pumps and the engine starts. Any ideas?

Answer by legase
Submitted on 5/2/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 1997 dodge stratus es. I have had since it was new I have never had any problems with it.It is not because I do not drive it becaus it has 142,000 miles on it. As long as you keep up on the mantinince on it you should not have problems with it. I think it is a great car

Answer by Ed
Submitted on 5/5/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
Like many of you I had a problem with a 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, after replacing the PCM, cam position sensor, the wires and the spark plugs because the car would shut off, especially in reverse, I replaced the TORQUE CONVERTER CELLUNOID (located near the transmission). It solved the problem. The Chrysler dealer couldn't even figure it out. Hope this help you out.

Answer by jae_mez
Submitted on 5/13/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
I have a 96 stratus but it always falls into first gear when Im driving after a while. and it stays there.....I hear it could be a speed sensor..anyone else have this problem?

Answer by gokhan
Submitted on 5/15/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
� have 1999 Chrysler stratus my transmission panel all lamps on where is my problem please help me my turkey

Answer by mike
Submitted on 7/1/2004
Rating:	Rate this answer:
i have a 96 stratus and it was running fine , never had a problem with my car till now, went to start it one day and it wouldnt start., changed the battery,starter,alternater and still wont start. i had a blown pcm/abs? fuse went to replace it and as soon as i touched the new fuse it blew also. can anyone help me to what i should do next, i am not mechanically inclined and also can not really afford to take it to a shop right now. i appreciate any advise ! thank yiou, mike in california

Answer by Mindy
Submitted on 7/14/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
My husband and I bought our Dodge Stratus in November and last week it caught on fire under the hood and was a loss. However, since then we have bought new tires, an ignition starter, the transmition was stuck in first gear,new spark plugs, timing was off, and the transmission fluid was leaking.

Answer by someone123456
Submitted on 8/9/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have 96 Doge Stratus. This car runs good but it has problme once in while starting. Lataly during morning when is cold weather it dont start. Than when a day warm up around noon it starts up fine... I check there is a sparck, good fuel going to engine and no engine lite comes on. Can someone guide me on what shuold i do.??? meandu101@yahoo.com

Answer by Kevin
Submitted on 9/12/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I need help with my 96 concorde. None of my gages or my message center or my overhead computer or my AC work. But the car will start and run fine. Anyone know what is the problem. Email me at kblox@earthlink.net

Answer by Chrylersfool
Submitted on 10/19/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
i have a 2000 stratus es v6. when i take the key out of the ignition to turn it off the car stays running. i just paid $260 to have it fixed today (changed the ignition switch), I picked it up from the mechanic, went to the store, came out it started. Went home and parked, pulled the emergency brake up, moved the key to "off", pulled it out of the ignition--YOU KNOW IT! The car stayed running. Never have had any huge problems with it---until now. I am a single mom and don't have big bucks. I just don't know what to do. Can anyone help?

Answer by billymac00
Submitted on 10/25/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have experienced the exact same symptoms as those described by CN 12/29/03 (stall in hot weather)

Answer by rctool man
Submitted on 11/29/2004
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 96 dodge stratus ES . I've had it since it had about 60,000 miles on it. IT HAS 130,000 on it now. I have done nothing to the car. Everything runs just great except one thing. My Car has the 2.5 v-6 and for about a year my engine has been ticking. Lifter noise I'm sure. It has developed into quite a loud tick and yeserday morning the car missed terrably, Has anyone else had this problem? If so what do you do to fix it?

Answer by jed
Submitted on 1/7/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
i have a 1996 dodge stratus were is the fuel pump.

Answer by Marc
Submitted on 2/18/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Help! I also have a 1997 dodge stratus and it has the rough idle problem you have all mentioned. Being that I work in a garage, I have gone through normal trouble shooting procedures to no avail. I have leakdown and compression tested cyliders, to find a valve job required after completing, still found rough idle. I tried advancing/retarding timing, and still to no avail, I then changed coil pack, plugs and wires. Then flashed e-brom chip, and updated the chip still to no avail. I will continue, and keep you all up to date. Do not go into a dealership and let them sucker you into hundreds of dollars worth of test, they will find NOTHING!!!

Answer by tayler
Submitted on 2/21/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
i have a 2.4 two in my car and it runs ruff that is just thay way the 2.4 runs

Answer by April
Submitted on 3/18/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have a 1996 Dodge Stratus ES that I bought in 1998 and since then I've had to get a new Starter,Transmission,Fuel Pump,Axel,Control Module, sensors and now my car wont start and I'm hearing that it's the timing belt. The check engine light stays on and my RPM and mileage doesn't work. Can anyone help me and let me know whats going on with this car.

Answer by Art123
Submitted on 3/20/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Contact www.NHTSA.com to file a complaint about these problems. When enough complaints are filed and enough safety issues are involved the National Vehicle Safety Commision will investigate and most likely issue a recall. You can also research recalls for specific yr/make/mod cars, look up technical service bulletins, etc. My 95 Dodge Intrepid has a PCM problem but Dodge wont issue a recall yet. Not enough complaints. But do it quickly because if a recall is not issued within 10 years they dont have to do it for free.

Answer by robert
Submitted on 4/14/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I own a 1998 dodge stratus es 2.5 v6 this car has given me nothing but trouble.first the shutting off thing while moving had to replace the pcm second the alternator 3 times then this morning the electronic distributor and egr and still not running correctly.runs rough on start out but gets going after 40 what the hell?

Answer by Kelly
Submitted on 4/20/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I HAVE A 2004 STRATUS, EVER SINCE I BOUGHT MY CAR I HAVE BEEN IN THE SHOP EVERY TWO MONTHS. IT'S BEEN 8 TIMES. FINALLY A YEAR DOWN THE ROAD AND THE 8 TIMES THEY FOUND THAT IT WAS A HYDRAULIC LIFTER. NOW FOR THE 9TH TIME FOR SPARK PLUGS, MY PLUGS ARE COMPLETELY SUBMERGED IN ENGINE OIL, CAN WE SAY FIRE HAZARD -SO I'VE BEEN TOLD, THEY SAY THAT IT'S A NEW PROBLEM, THE HEAD GASKET. THE IDIOTS SAID THAT WHEN THEY TOOK OFF THE HEAD THEY RE-USED THE GASKET B/C ITS REUSABLE ON THE STRATUS. THAT'S A CROCK. WE ALL NEED TO GET TOGETHER A PICKET AROUND DIAMLER CHRYSLER B/C THESE STATEMENTS WE EXPRESS AREN'T ANYTHING UNTIL SOMEONE GOES PUBLIC. ANYONE CARE TO JOIN ME????

Answer by Rocky
Submitted on 5/3/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
Why does my 1887 Dodge stratus jerk and hesitate while I'm driving? When i go to accelerate I put my foot on the gas and start off slow and it seems to drive fine but, this hesitating and jerking happens anytime while I'm on the freeway it will be fine and then all of a sudden it will start jerking and sluggish and then it just takes off normal.

Answer by Donna
Submitted on 5/7/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I just bought a 1996 Dodge Stratus yesterday and it has some issues so I searched the web for information and everything that is listed here is what is happening to my car!!!! odemeter light comes and goes, rough idle, radio is out, air bag light on and door locks don't work well...ouch! Has anything been done by the dealership?

Answer by Penis Licker "Jonnie Pot"
Submitted on 6/16/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
My car is a penis!!!!

Answer by Timothy
Submitted on 6/18/2005
Rating: Not yet rated	Rate this answer:
I have had a very different experience. 96 Stratus with over 180,000 miles, and only minor problems. It has be ultra reliable. I keep hearing what a lemon this car is, but not for me. I expect I will need to replace it soon, and am inclined to try another stratus, but that may be foolish. ...