2004 Dodge Stratus Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

The Stratus is a stylish and affordable alternative to the mainstream models that dominate this segment.

Pros

Exceptional value, attractive shape, fun to drive.

Cons

Doesn't have the build quality or reliability reputation of its Japanese competition.

What's New for 2004

Chrysler and Dodge have restyled most vehicles this year to bring out similarities and cohesiveness among the Chrysler group cars. To that end, the Stratus sedan receives a new front fascia, and R/T sedans get a monochromatic grille. Sedan interior changes include the addition of steering wheel-mounted audio controls and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, along with new door panels, new seat fabric and three new interior choices. Two new 16-inch wheel options, plus two new exterior colors have been added as well. Also this year, Stratus sedans without optional antilock brakes receive a downgraded braking system with rear drums in place of discs. On the plus side, traction control is now available when combined with antilock brakes. A manual transmission is no longer available. Changes to the coupe are minimal. The interior features a new "Satin Silver" finish on the center stack bezels, and door accents.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

blah...

Written by: SusanG on 06/30/2008

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	6	Fun-to-Drive:	6	Build Quality:	5
Comfort:	7	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	4
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	6

Vehicle

2004 Dodge Stratus SE 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)

Review

I got my Stratus as a graduation/wedding gift from my parents, and it was great for 3 years. Then, this year, I've spent more than $2000 in repairs, including transmission work. The brakes were replaced three months ago, and they're already showing moderate wear even with a gentle touch. The bleeder hose on the coolant system just "wore out" and my car overheated. I'm considering dumping the car before it costs more money.

Favorite Features

Good acceleration, especially on California freeways.

Suggested Improvements

Too many issues with "design flaw." Brakes go bad too fast and parts break too early in the cars' life.

Report inappropriate post

I Loved my STRATUS!

Written by: emille772 on 06/23/2008


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	8
Comfort:	6	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	10

My '04 stratus was my baby. I bought her from a dealer that was a close family friend as my first real car. My stratus held up amazingly well! I really enjoyed driving it, and all of the room in the car and trunk area! I thought it got really good gas mileage usually 22/25, however when driving on the turnpike I got 32 mpg! I only had a few problems with it. One being that at around 100,000 miles I had to replace the transmission pan and my transmission fluid would leak. My car also stalled out on me once. I was in an accident and hit by a drink driver on the drivers side. I have to say this car held up wonderfully! I wasn't hurt, however my car was totaled!

It was very easy and fun to drive! I love that is had both a CD and tape player! I love that it held pretty much together during my accident.

The transmission, and back seats they were a little uncomfortable to sit in!

my first dodge

Written by: miguel on 06/04/2008


Performance:	7	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	8
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	8
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	8

2004 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)

Very quiet, with new rotor-and brakes, I know I am good for the next 40,000 miles, next challenge what about oil, will burn more?

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

Shabby

Written by: Shabby on 05/22/2008


Performance:	7	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	5
Fuel Economy:	8	Exterior Design:	9

I bought this car from a 'friend' and in a few months I had transmission problems. also idles rather loud. This car is about 4 years old; it should not be having these problems. A few more repairs and my bill was over $1,200. So I won't be buying another dodge stratus anytime soon.

Car was comfortable, and it was a smooth ride.

Work on engine integrity. Under the hood is not pretty.

Repairs

Written by: Veronica on 05/21/2008


Performance:	3	Fun-to-Drive:	5	Build Quality:	3
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	7	Reliability:	2
Fuel Economy:	5	Exterior Design:	8

Bought this as first family car. A few months after purchase the car would just stall while driving. It will do this every few months and no reason has been found why. The car was 3 years old when it needed a new starter. A few months later the brakes just stopped working. It seems that after the car was 3 years old, every few months it has needed repairs. For a car that we have always kept up with routine maintenance should be more reliable. Getting ready to trade in and not buy another dodge product.

spacious

Build a care that will be reliable

2004 Dodge Stratus Consumer Ratings & Reviews