1996 Dodge Stratus problems
Owners have filed 776 complaints about the 1996 Dodge Stratus with NHTSA. Engine and engine cooling accounts for 46.4% of them — far more than any other system, ahead of service brakes, hydraulic at 9.7%.
Complaints776
Crashes39
Fires40
Injuries27
Deaths1
What owners report breaking
Engine and engine cooling 46.4% · 360
Service brakes, hydraulic 9.7% · 75
Power train 8.5% · 66
Steering 6.2% · 48
Electrical system 4.9% · 38
Suspension 4.8% · 37
Unknown or other 2.3% · 18
Air bags 2.3% · 18
Severity
Of those complaints, 39 describe a crash, 40 describe a fire, 27 report an injury and 1 report a death.
Reading the numbers
Across the 11 model years of the Dodge Stratus in this data, 1996 draws the most complaints of any of them.
Filings have fallen off, 6 in the last three years against 11 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 90,000 miles.
In owners' own words
I have learned that numerous people have experienced this same problem and for some, chrysler has reimbursed them for repairs. Our local news did a report on secret warranties for the Dodge Stratus head gasket replacement. I contacted chrysler in january, 1999 after the repairs were made and they denied my claim. I called again today, 01/05/01 and was denied again. Help please! * No safety defect. Engine and engine cooling
The head gasket on lots of Stratus/cirrus/breeze has been leaking. I was told by 4 mechanics that they have had lots of problems with this. I hope by teling you this it will make chrysler pay for my repair and also others with the same problem. I hope your intent is to make sure people are safe and happy with there major purchases. The second largest investment for most people. Thank you . Engine and engine cooling
Was driving vehicle & it started leaking oil. Took vehicle to dealer & was informed by mechanic leak came from top of engine to wires. Had it repaired. Started leaking again. Took vehicle back to dealership when engine blew out. At dealership, mechanic informed owner that engine head galley plug blew out, causing loss of oil. Needed to replace engine head galley plugs & head gaskets. Engine and engine cooling
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…
Other Dodge Stratus years
1995 462 complaints · 25.1% engine and engine cooling 1997 451 complaints · 39.2% engine and engine cooling 1998 334 complaints · 36.8% engine and engine cooling 1999 344 complaints · 19.5% service brakes, hydraulic 2000 270 complaints · 24.4% steering 2001 269 complaints · 22.3% engine and engine cooling