Dodge Stratus

2004 Dodge Stratus Electrical / Lighting Systems   

Power Windows are dead. Fuse did not fix problem

Hello
It will probly be the window relay switch. Should be around the fuse box under dash area.
Heavychevy

No such animal. Only thing is a 30 Amp large fuse. Rplaced it but still dos mot work.

There will be a relay. What kind of fuse did you replace, blade fuse regular size?

Blade Type but a 30 Amp, larger then a regular Blade Fuse. Has Aluminum Body. Fuse Chart syas its for the Power Windows. The one I repalced it with came from an autom parts store. Should I go to the dealer to get one

do you have an ohm meter to check it and check the old one

Yes

ok go ahead and check both fuses

look for a fuse in the fuse box under dash. If both fuses show good after testing I would use the ohm tester to see if the switch was bad.

/

Just doing a follow up to check the progress of your stratus.
Heavychevy

1999 Dodge Stratus Electrical / Lighting Systems Failing Happens sometimes When warm 

I have had most of the "Dodge Stratus" problems. I have had the head gasket at 45k, the brakes at 50 and I fear that I am on the verge of a speed sensor at 85k. When I am at highway speeds I get a quick spike in the RPM and speed gagues with a single lurch, then back to normal. But, that is not my main problem right now. When I leave the car parked in the sun on a hot day, the gauge cluster dies along with the power locks. The Lighting system, Radio, Fan and Engine all function normally. Here is what I am having trouble with sometimes if you turn the key back to lock and then to run the cluster will come back, and other times if you drive it in it's "condition" the cluster will come to life as you drive down the road?? I would appreciate help if you have any thoughts.

To me it sounds like some sort of short in the cluster itself or somewhere like that. Which engine is in the car? Does the car have the anti theft system installed? That could also cause some havic as well. Let us know on these questions and any more info you can think of.Does the car stall at all?

The car has the 2.4 engine and there is no anti-theft on it, why would heat seem to play a role and not vibration or etc..

IS it analog or digital display?

it is your standard Chry Analog disp. Volt, Fuel, Tach, Speed.. etc..

If there is a crack in the circuit board, the heat can cause the whole dash area to flex and contract because of the different materials used in it...ie: plastic/vinyl and if that happenes the circuit board can flex as well if there is a crack from an overheated solder/component connection at /near a resistor etc...causing an intermittant short.

1999 Dodge Stratus Fuel System Won't Start When starting Always

I would like to know the price of a dodge stratus 1999 fuel pump? The mechanic tells me is about $500. Plus he tells me the throttle body needs cleaning and the timing of the engine has to be adjusted, the total price is $679. Does this price sounds legit? To me I think it is high. thanks rick

Hi;
SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE GETTING RIPPED! First of all what is the problem? Second of all, GET ASECOND OPINION!!! Good Luck Les.

The problem occur when I was driving on the turnpike and all of a sudden the car stalls, looses accelaration, engine lite comes on, I try to accelerate but I'm losing power. I was going 70mph,then 60, then fifty until I pulled over and brake to stop and the car turns off. I try several times to turn on the car and it starts to shake and it doesn't turn on. The battery works cause the radio works, rear defrogger and lites work. I have no choice but to call a tow truck to bring it to a dodge dealership where they have maintenance. The mechanic tells me next day that the fuel pump went bad and that is why I was loosing fuel pressure. Also the throttle body needs cleaning and the timing of the engine has to be adjusted. This will cost me $700 is this legit or am I being ripped off?
I have a 1999 dodge stratus, six cylinder.
thanks
rick
[redacted]

Hi again:
What you are telling me is that the car started dying on you going down the road. First of all did you loose fuel pressure, or was it spark? Can the guy checking it out show you a fuel pressure diagnostic chart? To me it sounds like the problem has not been isolated to fuel or ignition. Good Luck Les.

Hi Les,
I did not see my fuel gauge loose gas nor did I see sparks. If you think it is not the fuel pump then what do think it might be? What else should i check for?
thanks again

Hi;
I guess you did not understand my answer. I asked if you lost fuel pressure or ignition fire. You would of not have seen this unless you had a fuel pressure gauge or a spark tester. I would take the vehicle to another repair shop and ask them to do a diagnostic test for you. Fuel pump for the vehicle is about $250.00. Labor should be about a $100.00. Good Luck Les.

1999 Dodge Stratus Engine   

engine stopped running thought it was fuel pump, but it appears to be an spark issue. how do I determine if it is a sensor or the coil unit?

Start by checking the Key On/Off trouble codes.

Turn the key On, Off, On, Off, and On again (three times within five seconds). Note- On is until the dash lights come on NOT engine cranking.

The check engine light should go out then begin to flash 2 digit trouble codes.

Flash pause Flash Flash= code 12 (the first set of flashes is the 'tens' place-- PAUSE -- then the 'ones' place is represented).

Flash Flash Flash pause Flash Flash= code 32

This may take a few tries to get the hang of, if you make a mistake simply turn the key off and start over.

An alternative (preferred) to this method is using a code reader. Most Autozone stores will 'loan' a code reader for a fully refundable deposit.

Let me know which trouble codes you find and we'll continue. Also let me know which engine you have, some of these cars have problematic distributors which are costly.

I get no codes when using the key on/off method.It has a 2.4 L engine.

Okay, your engine should have a crankshaft position sensor. You can use an ohm meter to the resistance of the sensor. An open condition proves a bad sensor.

If you are experienced with electrical testing, you can also test engine cranking A/C voltage (in mVolts) to see if the sensor is giving a reading.

As for the coil, your local autoparts store may be able to check this free of charge. Call ahead.

Always check fuses, battery cables, grounds, etc when you experience an electrical failure.

Thanks Douglas for all your advise. The actual problem is a timing belt and if I would have use my basic troubleshooting skills I would have checked that first, but I appreciate all your help.

In the case of the belt the crankshaft sensor would of passed the resistance test but showed nothing on cranking.

Did you notice the engine cranking faster?

1999 Dodge Stratus Ignition System   

My engine is missing. I connected a vacuum gauge and reading is low, between 14-17 in. I can not locate the vacuum leak. I checked the basics(hoses,air cleaner....) Any ideas?

Hello
What is the guage doing? Please copy and paste this web site to your browser it will of some help.

http://www.imperialclub.com/Repair/Fuel/VacuumGauge/index.htm

The movement of the needle along with the numarical reading is very important.
But the answer to your question it sounds a intake manifold leak if the needle is steady and a low reading.
Heavychevy

The needle flunctuates between the 2 readings...14-17 in. of vacuum.
My car was running fine before 1 of the camshafts broke. I have a 4 cylinder 2.4l engine. After I replaced the camshaft, I started it up and noticed it was missing and will hardly idle, stalling most of time. I also replaced the ignition coil and wires and noticed no change. I sprayed WD-40 around the intake manifold and made no difference, unless I'm missing something. I also checked fuel pressure and injector leak down and it checked out, double checked timing and alignment marks on pulleys and they checked out also. I'm at a loss. Any ideas?

This is going to soumd simple but with it moving very little like it is and a low reading. It might be the spark plugs or the gap in them and its causing the throttle body to be off thous the low reading. I would change the plugs with a differnt brand and try that. I know its simple but thats what I am thinking with the reading you are recieving.

1999 Dodge Stratus Engine   

surges while driving and then dies out

The first thing to check is the airfilter (easy) and fuel filter (hard=under car). Up by the throttle body on the fuel line, is a schrader valve. Next time it stalls, check for pressure at that point. But the starting point (if it has not had one recently) is a tune up. Plugs, cap rotor, air and fuel filter are preventitive maintenance.If you have new fuel filter (and still surges/stalls) and no, or little pressure at schrader valve, then pump might be the problem.

1999 Dodge Stratus Ignition System   

99,2.5L Stratus. Will not start. check engine light comes on during normal systems check and goes out. no codes stored and code reader said computer is good. Replaced the computer no help, replaced the Crankshaft sensor - no change. disconnected the camshaft sensor plug and turned engine over to see if I captured a code, no code shown. Both the Crankshaft and Camshaft sensors have 8 volts to them. Fuel pump does come on as normal just no spark. It acts like the computer doesn't know I want to start the car. Originally the car ran a bit rough then stopped within 30 seconds. 2 hours later it would restart then shutdown after 20 minutes. it did this a couple times then never started again. this is when I replaced the computer. I have checked fuses, plugs and everything I can think of. I was told the Camshaft sensor or perhaps the distributor may be at fault. I also tried to put a meter on the output of the Crank and Camshaft sensors to see if the voltage was pulsing but got nothing noticable, but perhaps my meter was not good enough. Battery is strong.

These distributors fail routinely! Also look at the ground at left front cylinder head. They can break just under top radiator hose.

i checked the ground and it has a good connection. Is there any way I can check the distributor before I buy one?

With an oscilloscope, you can watch the signal from the computer to the distributor. If the signal is there, but no spark coming out, the distributor is bad.

If you want to do more testing, use a noid light to determine if the fuel injectors are firing. If they are firing, then your cam and crank signals are good.

The black/gray wire is the signal wire. It should switch from 0 to 3 volts for 4 milliseconds each spark attempt.

If you use a graphing meter or oscilloscope, the signal should look like a shark fin, not a square wave.

When you buy the distributor, make sure the shaft for the rotor is the right size, (there are 2) and that the rotor is turned the right direction (there are 3).

A square wave means a bad igniter (in the distributor)

We have had a lot of rain here I will check the distributor tomorrow or Sat morning. I did see on the existing distributor that it is a remanufactured unit.

I have had remanufactured distributors fail several times on this model in less than 2 years time. It is a weak part on this car, and the aftermarket versions seem to be worse than the originals.

Well the rain and miserable weather has stopped. My O'Scope that I use as in some electronic projects was just to big (old but good) to carry out to the car so I replaced the distributor. The car works good now.

I thank you for your reassurance about the distributor. Have a great day.

Very good!

1996 Dodge Stratus Engine  When driving No pattern

cut off

Could you further describe the problem.
THese cars are known for distributor problems.

what do you mean this car does not have a distributor, a real mechanic should have known that,
this is a 96. please try again with the real answer.

Okay I will. You obviously don't have a V6 which does have a distributor. Do you have the 2.0L or 2.4L engine? Without critical information it creates confusion.

And we may need more than 'cuts off' to solve this one. Cuts off for how long? Does engine stall? If so does it restart? If yes how long does it take to restart?
I will check and see if chrysler has any service bulletins for both engines.

Sorry for the confusion.

i have a 2.4

Call or visit your dodge service department. There are technical service bulletins (TSB's) which may apply. And the repair is sometimes free.
Be sure close attention is payed to the TSB's, because one involves a hesitation from the result of gasoline properties (in other words the engine may not run properly on modern gasoline blends).
Also make sure the PCM (computer) flash updates have been performed (there was emmisions recalls on this so it should be free).

1996 Dodge Stratus Engine Stalling When idling No pattern

I was sitting at a drive thru when all of the sudden, my engine light came on and as it idles, it acts like its running out of gas. When I drive on the freeway, it's fine but the check engine light still remains on and when I idle at a stoplight, it stalls. I checked the built in diagnostic feature and get the numbers: 12,32,55. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

Hi,
Code 12 means the battery has been disconnected in the recent past. Code 32 means an EGR problem. Code 55 means end of codes.

An EGR problem can match your symptoms exactly. You will need to check the EGR valve to see if it is stuck open. If not, then the EGR solenoid/transducer need to be checked or replaced.

The dealer sells these 2 parts in the same box for less than $100, so that is a good way to fix it!

Codes 12 and 55 can be ignored.

Dale

Thank you...now where would I find this box and second, is it ok to drive like this temp?

For the 4 cylinder engine, the EGR solenoid and valve are on near the rear of the engine, just under the air intake hose. On the V6 engine, the EGR solenoid and valve are on the front of the engine below the valve cover in the coolant fill cap area.

You may drive like this without hurting the vehicle (unless it stalls when a semi is headed your way...)...

Dale

1996 Dodge Stratus Chassis / Suspension & Steering Vibration When driving Always

There is some looseness in the steering when its jacked and the wheel rocked.
I have changed the wheel bearings and the tie rod ends but there is still some movement in the steering rack.
The vibration corrolates to the wheel speed so I'm sure its in the steering rack somewhere.
I would appreciate any advice you can offer me as I only have a limited tool selection to conduct a full diagnostic.

Thank you for your time

Lee Duerden

Hi:
Sounds like you might have a bad ball joint. Jack up the car underneath the a arm. With it jacked up have someone take a prybar and stick it underneath the wheel. Have them pry up on the tire and release it. Take a look at your ball joints to see wich one has play in it. The upper or lower. Good Luck Les.

Both top and bottom ball joints are tight and without play as is the tie rod ball joint. Movement is observed in the steering rack and only on the drivers side when the wheel is rocked through a horizontal plane.

Regards

Lee Duerden

HI;
You have an inner tie rod that might be bad. Thanks Les.

Is it possible to change the tie rod without removing the rack or is this a major job for a garage?

Hi;
It can be changed without taking the rack out. It does requires special tool and knowledge. I would recommend taking it to a shop if you have not done it before and probably not planning to do too many of them. The special socket that it requires is about $70.00. Then on top of that after you install you will need a front alignment. Good Luck Les.

1996 Dodge Stratus All Part Groups   

When I first start my car, and push the accelarator, it hesitates, then finally goes, I noticed it first a few weeks ago, and didnt do it again for sometime, now its a daily thing. Any ideas on whether its the transmission going out? Thanks

There are several factory TSB's for your car.#180198 is result of sometimes upstrem O2 sensor shorted. #180897 is an ignition issue. Both have same symptoms. Also you need to know if you have PCM updates done.
As most of the above are an Emission concer, there might be some recourse in the form of a warranty.
If not, check the O2 sensors , get the car scanned for codes also.
If trans fluid dirty, some preventitive maintenance is in order. Replacing fluid and filter easier than changing trans!

1995 Dodge Stratus Electrical / Lighting Systems Failing Happens sometimes 

I just bought a 1995 Dodge Stratus ES. Everything worked perferct the day I brought it home, now it has some kind of electrical problem. The power windows, the stereo, the horn, and the AC just ceased to function. I took it to the mechanic who fixed the problem. The next day it happened again. The mechanic says that it is a cable that breaks loose from the AC and when you conect it everything works. I have taken it to him 3 times and the problem persists. How can I fix this problem?

not much of a mechanic next time get him to show you which one since he seems to not be able to replace it maybe it is too short or you have a engine mount problem causing it to be pulled apart

Can it be something else? What do I do when he shows me the part? Do I replace the electrical box? I called Dodge and they told me that it is very expensive to find an electrical problem in a car.

This morning the the power windows, ac, etc were not working. Now I went outside, turned the car on and everything is working properly. I do not know what to do. It just happens sometimes.

check fuses

1995 Dodge Stratus Drive Train / Driveline   

transmission goes into fail safe mode as soon as key is turned on

There are several resons that your car may be reverting to the safe mode condition.
The thing you would not want to do is start guessing part replacements.
The first thing I would do is check the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for stored codes.
or in this case the PCM will definately have codes stored in it
you can have your car scanned and get all the information out of the mod
I believe this will lead to addressing your problem.
I hope this helps

I did scan it and it comes up "FAIL". I thought this meant that it was in fail safe mode.