Used 1998 Dodge Stratus Consumer Reviews
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1998 Stratus w/Auto+Slap Manual Trans
I originally bought this car for my wife to drive. But, when I realized what the "Slap Stick" trans was all about, she had to get in line. This transmission is the best I've driven, not only for the enjoyment, but for safety. You can be going 60 mph or more while in automatic and then slap into the manual on the fly. The manual trans kicks in, but only as the speed and synchromesh allows. It will bring the car to a slow speed very rapidly, as you slap those gears down. Couple that with the all-ABS, and this is one easy and safe car to control. I've maintained the trans without fail, periodically getting the full flush treatment. I've experienced no problems with this unique trans.
Great Value
I've had this car for 5 years and 60,000 miles without a single problem. Not even a couple of bitter cold Buffalo winters have slowed it down. The interior size is deceivingly large, as many passengers have told me over the years. Trunk space is also exceptional. The 4 cylinder engine gets tremendous gas mileage and provides a surpising amount of response and pick-up. I would certainly consider buying another one.
Problems
After having the car for 10 months and taking it to another place to have the oil changed, they found that the antifreeze color was brown, with sludge in it. Lazares didn't want to flush it for me. But after complaining some more they did. Also when I got the oil changed they said I have an oil leak. I found out that they are known to have the rear main seal leak. The car only has 46,000 miles on it. Also alot of road noise
Will never buy a Dodge Again
I bought this car in 2000, it's a 1998 the oil light stayed on when I turned key on but dealer finds nothing wrong, after about 50,000 the head gasket blows, before that the fuel pump went bad,now the engine shakes needs motor mounts on the front, brakes wear down fast i'm disappointed in dodge/chrysler cars i will not purchase or suggest anyone buy one, dodge won't change until someone gets seriously hurt driving one of there products, i thought about getting a chrysler town and country but after reading reviews and all the complaints no way, i might go to hyundai for a nice ride now.
good car while on a budget W/ warrenty!
i purchased this strats ES used with 92,000 on it. It's been a fairly reliable car as i have driven it to Danville,VA from Jamestown, NY. I feel safe to travel in this car but the battery gave me very little warning that it was about to die. then to my surprise the batt. is located in front driver side bumper. you have to remove the wheel to get too it. the same goes for the Chrysler cirrus and plymouth breeze. sneaky of chrysler to do this. i now have 140,000 miles on the car and my check engine light keeps popping on. i took it to the shop and i find out that its the transmission and im not replaceing it. i would buy another stratus but make sure you get a warranty with the car.
ES is Best
My 98 Stratus ES has been a great all-around car. The ride in the ES is much better than the 97 SE that we have. Only complaint is the front cup holder.
New Car???
We bought this car new, and have really liked the looks and how the car drives. Our problem has been the $700 head gasket repair at 40K miles, and a $270 power steering pump replacement at 52K miles. We're keeping for at least 2 more years, but I'm going to think long and hard before I buy another Dodge. They make great looking cars, but looks aren't everything. I need a car that breaks down after 100+K miles, not 40K.
mycarreview
The dodge stratus has been a car that I have always admired. When it first came out I said that is a car I wouldn't mind having. When it was time to get a new (new to me) car, I was able to find the stratus I have now. I have had very few problems with my car & hope to have it for many more years.
The best car!
The best car I ever drove!
I really like this car!
I've owned 22 cars so far, this one has been my favorite. It's looks are deceiving, it has a lot more room than you'd expect. The car has been very reliable. I still have no leaks, squeaks or rattles. I avg. 23mpg combined city/hwy and 32mpg hwy driving (2.4L 4cyl). I will probably buy another Stratus when it's time to replace this one. I presently have 60K miles on it and only routine maintenance has been required to date.
1998 dodge stratus
I just bought this vehicle n love it bought it w/ some minor problems it's leakin oil n has ben no easy task in discoverin where it's leakin, we'r tinkin it's the sensor off the side of the motor since it's all wet there n all the way down the motor! Also keeps eating batteries? it's standard which is half the reason I bought it it is so fun 2 drive handles well n plenty of room in the back 4 my 2 children their car seats n toys! Hopefully after I get the minor repairs done it will last I'm a lil worried since it has high mileage but it runs sound despite leakin a qrt of oil once a wk. Hopefully nothin Major needs replacin!
Please Fix The Gasket Problem
I have 107,511 miles on my 1998 Stratus. I bought it before it even had the chance to even hit the lot and have put every mile on it. I haven't had any mechanical problems at all except for the oil mixing with the antifreeze. All I've had done to it, besides routine maintenance was change the timing belt at 100,000 miles. I must admit that even with the head gasket problem, It has not been a bad car. I would recomend it. Plus it look's great.