Used 1998 Dodge Stratus Sedan Consumer Reviews
Used Stratus for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Wow what a great little hoopty!
dsilvestri, 06/21/2012
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I got this car because it was a cheap manual transmission car with nice cold working AC and with gas prices at around 3.50 a gallon and the car being only $800 bucks i bought it even if i got a few months out of it i wouldnt lose, but honestly being skeptical of it at first because it was a 14yr old DODGE and i figured i would drive it until i could afford to get into a car payment again on a brand new car honestly now im so in love with this old car that i figured why would i even need a car pymnt when this car is paid 4, super dependable, and the gas mileage i get out of it is ridiculous its over 30mpg easy ha even the stock radio is sounds good, 127k and im the 2nd owner, mine was a deal!
Great First Car
michaela96, 07/03/2013
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this 15 year old car for $1500. It had 180K on it but still runs smoothly. It handles great and should last anyone a long time so long as they keep up the maintenance and do repairs as needed. Before when I thought of the brand "Dodge", the first thing that came to mind was gas guzzling trucks. To my surprise this car gets pretty good gas mileage. I've had it over a month now and I love it. My goal is to get it to last me through this winter with out having any major problems.
1998 Dodge Stratus for sale near you
Showing 0 of 0 listings
Sorry, there are no 1998 Dodge Stratus vehicles for sale in our network.
See all 0 listingsLove It!!
Carla, 08/31/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have 168,000 miles and I'm still getting 28 mpg. First 80,000 miles were city commute but last 88,000 have been all highway. I commute 140 miles to work (M-F). I have kept up on my preventative maintenance (not religiously) which has helped. I love the way it handles in any weather. I am concerned about the miles and how much longer my car will last.
Suprising Car
JH, 11/29/2009
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My first car was a 1998 Dodge Stratus that I received over two years ago from my grandfather when I was 15. It had 110K miles on it and now has about 140K miles. Annual maintenance was not done on the car so we had to buy new brakes, tires, and the points and plugs were are now all new. Now the mechanic wants over $400 for a new oil pan. The transmission runs like new and its a fun car to drive so we decided to keep it until it completely falls apart without putting any more money into it. Overall, the Stratus was a nice easy car to learn how to drive in, but there are more reliable options out there. If price is an issue, the Stratus is always a good option.
BEST PURCHASE I COULD HAVE MADE!
Emily, 05/11/2009
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car right before my 18th B-Day and couldn't have chose anything better. It had 151,000 miles and now has over 200,000 miles on it and still running. Paid $1500 for it and need some minor repair. But with $4,000 (got all the work done at a dealership) into it I still have no regrets!
A great sedan
Tim Walters, 06/03/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have 101,000 miles on my 1998 Stratus ES. I bought it as a program car and have put many miles on it. I haven't had any mechanical problems at all. All I've had done to it, besides routine maintenance, is a replaced windshield (rock from road), New trans. gasket that was leaking (it was due for service anyway).
Many Miles and Many Repairs
clintonanthony, 03/09/2013
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my car in 2006 with 80k on it. Needed to immediately replace water pump and deal with leaking oil pan. It is now 2013, so it's been a fairly okay car for me to get it over 150,000 miles. I need to 'junk' the car now, because it's no good. I live in PA and the bottom of the car is completely rusted out, rocker panels are covered up with rivits and tin. I've tried to frequently wash the car to avoid this, but it was inevitable. My frame is 'soft' and won't pass another inspection. I would have liked to of got more than 150k out of the car, but it's not going to happen.
I HATE THIS CAR!!!!!!
cj95, 09/20/2013
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
my stepbrother has owned a 98 for about a year and is constantly bringing it to me asking me to fix this and that, the things rides like a hotwheels on concrete, you can feel every bump in the road, and when you hit the throttle first of all, it feels like your going no where and second the pathetic, noisy 4 cyl can wake the dead! I hate dodge! Ford all the way!
This is the worst car I have ever owned!
Kyrsten, 02/19/2016
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
I traded my 1997 Isuzu Rodeo for this car back when gas was almost $4 and I really wish I hadn't!! My rodeo got better gas mileage than this car does! I got this car used and obviously the people who had it before me didn't take very good care of it. I've had it for a year and it's been to the mechanics 5 different times. I've had it stop running while I was driving down the road. It has oil leaks everywhere, the belts all squeal, it brakes for crap, it doesn't want to accelerate, the headlights are dim at best, and it slides when it rains. I can't hardly fit anything into this car and now the entire front interior of the car is wet. The seats have held up well, so there's that...I'm trying to buy a new car and this car has crap for trade-in value.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
1998 es 4 door sedan
RR50, 04/17/2010
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
I see a lot of negative reviews for this car , so I might have just got lucky. Without any doubt this was the best car I have ever owned and would not hesitate to buy another one . I quit buying Chrysler a long time ago.( I am 50 yrs old) But couldn't pass this one up. Paid $1000 with 135,000 miles on it. It now has 280,000 miles and engine and tranny are still strong.Never one problem. Only changed normal wear parts.(brakes,belts,etc.)
Been a good car for us.
Udslash, 01/22/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this car after we returned home from overseas/ARMY. Paid 8K for it used with 33k miles. It has been a great reliable car! At about 50k miles the main rear seal/head gasket had to be replaced. It was under warranty though..so no big deal. While living in L.A. I replaced the brake pads 6 or 7 times from freeway driving plus I had to have my rotors respun twice & then replaced. HORRIBLE brakes obviously. You definately need to buy high performance/carbon metallic to keep pads on this car for any length of time. Car has been from Miami to L.A. & back. + towed a U-haul trailer from Dallas to Miami. 130,000 miles to date...still going!!!
Why such a bad Head Gasket
Ziggy99, 12/31/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been happy with the car except for the engine work required. Head Gasket failure at 80K was rediculous even with reqular maintenance. (Major failure came after coolant and oil change at the dealer.) Did they cover it under a recall no because i had more than 50k on the car. If it wasnt for the big ticket repair bills i would be very happy with the car. Nice interior (best in its class if you ask me)
This car is excellent in all catagories.
98stratuses, 12/16/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this car with 28000 miles on it in August of 2000. We haven't had any trouble with his car except front brake replacement,and replaced distributor cap. Total repairs for 14 months, $360.47,labor included.The speedometer just rolled 50000 today and it still drives like a new car. We went new car shopping. Decided we had as good as a new car so we decided to keep our 1998 Dodge Stratus ES.Go buy one. you'll be glad you did.Buy the 1998 Dodge Stratus ES. Check it out in the Consumer Magazine. for 1998 model cars.
Looks will fool you
Stabone, 02/26/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Chrysler has failed with this engine and mechanical elements. The head gasket WILL begin to leak around 50K, in addition to many other repairs that go beyond ware and tear. Do not buy this model after 50K or you will end up spending well over $3,000 in repairs. Don't let the looks and extra features fool you. Chrysler should be ashamed of themsevles. I can't wait to get rid of this vehicle.
1998 Dodge Stratus ES
Jax Tom, 02/11/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my '98 ES at the end of 2000 when it had 61,000 miles on it and I have over 113,000 miles on it now. It's been a great car, solid, fun to drive, decent gas mileage, good power when you need it. Other than routine maintenance and new tires, I haven't had to do anything to it except that the A/C has just lost its charge so I'll be needing to get new hoses and refridgerant. Hope to get many more miles from it.
98 Stratus
98stratus, 12/23/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle when I turned 17, it's a good reliable car to drive, the handling is decent. I have so far replaced the brakes, the headgasket (under warranty), and the tires... around 70K miles... the car now has 95000.. I now plan on trading it in soon for an Eddie Bauer Explorer. All and all it's a good reliable car!
Purchased New In 97
Akbar, 06/04/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 1998 Dodge Stratus new. Had 2.0 eng and 5 spd. Car had head gasket changed once. At 94,000 had to changed clutch cable. Washer on end toward engine broke. Only part I had to changed that wasn't a wear and tear item. At 123,000 changed wheel bearings (front) and lower control arm drivers side at 168,000. Car now has a small oil leak at oil sensor. Dealership price is only 13.60 for new one. Will get changed soon. Did not change spark plugs and wires until car began to miss at just under 150,000. Purchased replacements from dealership! Car only got below 30 mpg just before changing plugs & wires. Usually gets between 32 to 37 MPG! Great car!
My Dodge
carmesin, 07/26/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had many problems including needing a new head gasket, radiator and transmission. It has been nothing but problems since I bought it. I only have 80,000 miles on it. I am looking for a new car.
review
lurch, 07/17/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car, has really lasted, have well over 100,000 miles and looks and runs like it is new
One of the best
Michael, 01/05/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Without question, the best car I ever owned. This would include: Toyota, Mitshubishi, Ford, Saturn. The car handles superbly and the V6 has plenty of punch while delivering a very nice MPG. Reliability has been excellent and with 90,000 miles, no problems. A tremendous value!
great car
gtzspeeddemon, 03/21/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. My wife sold her 97 Sunfire and bought this. The engine compartment is kind of tight, but it is a big engine in a small car. The 2.5 is reliable and powerful, the auto stick is a must have. Changing spark plugs at 100k will be a pain, but it only has to be done every 100k, right? Great looks, in and out, perfect sized for 3 person family. Put fatter/lower profile tires on it, looks awesome. All around an awesome car, currently drive a 92 dakota, if i wasnt a huge GM scucker, i would buy one.
I love this car
mikoollowrentow, 05/18/2010
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got this car used w/100,000 miles on her and she still runs great! Sporty car handles great and very fun to drive. I get great mileage 23/30. Very fast car!
The Best Car
J-money, 11/27/2006
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I brought the 1998 Dodge Stratus form a friend and there was never any problem with the car ever. It has 100,000 miles and no leaks and no engine problems.
A solid Car
Dodge Driver, 07/20/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good car - had to replace head gasket at about 80k, but no major issues
Reliable ES
Alagamon, 03/30/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been extremely reliable for me. This car only needed oil, brakes and air filters until I hit 95K and then it was time for tires. At 105K I had all the maintenance items done new battery, plus,wires, coolant, etc. I ad tie rods and wheel bearings done as well. I am now at 175K and it is still going strong. It has been so reliable that when we needed a second car in 2000, we bought the exact smae car two years newer dofferent color.
A Good Car with no problems
Sue, 03/27/2007
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my ES used from original owner. It is the top of the line for the year and the only problem I had is with brakes, changed twice in 3 months one year, but it was due to defective brakes. Engine has 151,000 miles. The car handles well and runs soundly. Never had an engine problem or anything major happen. Starts up every time, doesn't leak a single drop of oil, still gets 26 mpg highway. I have always had good luck with Dodge and my next car (picking up tomorrow) is the 2008 Avenger SXT, which is replacing the Stratus. The Stratus is a well made vehicle, at least mine is, anyway!
It costs how much?
hatedodge, 12/12/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have the 2.4 DOHC in my Stratus and have had problems every December since purchase. I've gone through 2 head gaskets and a head (it was cracked AND warped) and just took it to the shop for my 3rd round of head work. Chrysler has covered 2/3 of the cost each time, but they should just recall the suckers and get the problem solved!! I used to love Chryslers, but this one has soured me forever.
Inferior Engineering
Unsatisfied consumer, 03/28/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Time and time again Chrysler proves to the American public that they don't care a great deal about building a reliable automobile. My 1998 Stratus WAS just like any other Dodge car- a pile of junk. Head gasket, radiator, transmission,and internal engine problems all before 70,000 miles. My advice to anybody is to stay away from the Stratus. Yes, you can get into one a bit cheaper and they are comfortable to ride, but you will pay for it in repairs. Chrysler should be ashamed of themselves for building a disposable piece of junk. My contacts lasted longer than my 1998 Stratus. It depreciated faster than a share of stock in Enron
Great Car
Nora, 03/06/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car since 1998. I bought it with 18K miles on it and since then have put on loads of miles, in fact I just turned 100K this week. I have had no major problems with this car. Just the regular tune ups and repairs that would be normal for any car with miles (brakes, batteries etc) This is the only car I have ever had that I am not tired of after driving it for 4 years in fact I would seriously consider another Stratus when I need a new car.
A lucky find or a total bomb
Allen, 10/29/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Dodge isn't consistent in this model. Some people get lucky and have no engine problems and some people don't. If your considering a stratus that has 'minor' engine problems DONT GET IT PERIOD! Bought mine with a 'small oil leak.' Ended up replacing the OEM headgasket ($1500 no biggie considering what I paid for it at the time--it was a common problem) fixed that and in a week the rear main oil seal went out. I knew I had problems and tried to sell it but now the transaxle quit and the engine is missfiring. After $3000.00 into it I can't sell it for a cent!
Great Car
Pbdb, 05/10/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for about a year and I have had no problems at all. It would be nice to have better cup holders in the car.
Love this car
Mia, 11/08/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car 6 years ago with 20K miles on it. 3 cross country trips later with over 130k miles and its still in great condition with only routine checkups and TLC needed. I bought another car 2 years ago but we still use this one. I will miss it when we eventually sell it.
Nice Car, Bad Engines
Bob Nolan, 11/10/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is a great car for anyone who would like to own one, put few miles on it each year, and sell it prior to 60,000 miles. Chrysler should be shot in the head for using the crappy engines (2.0 and 2.4l engines) in these cars. After 60,000 miles, trade it, sell it, whatever, just get rid of it. A head gasket leak will turn into a $3,000 repair in no time. Other than that, great response, great handling, and an all around economical car in a good package.
Reliability
prochap, 05/30/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drivability and handling has been great both in the city and on the highway. Performance with 4 cyc has been just fine for my needs even in mountains at times. Plenty of power on freeway.
Engine problems with the 1998 Stratus
jandm5254, 10/15/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has gone through 2 headgaskets in the first 60,000 miles. It is currently in need of ball joint replacement. It is difficult to see out of the rear window. I guess you get what you pay for.
Let's be honest...
jelenap, 03/02/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Let's be honest: this car is fun to drive on;y when it is not in the shop (and bills are not fun at all). And it is a reliable only after you replace a transmission, engine and brakes.
Dodge should be ashamed of themselves
recallheadgasket55, 07/01/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car was bought new in 9/97 but needed to be serviced often. Major engine trouble early on. Dodge did pick up some of the cost of the repairs after the warranty expired but only after I complained. Even with following the suggested routine maintenace the car should have lasted more than 77k. This car was traded in after the dealer recommended replacing the motor.
mighty mopar
mike ramone, 08/13/2004
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
bought my dodge in december 1998..we found out quickly that the heating system is excellent.we have approx 82kms currently.ride is fair, starting to get all sorts of suspension creaks.have the usual head gskt and trans cooler lines leaking(i'm an auto mechanic so i can fix them myself) what is dissapointing is the brake system.we have put on approx 70kms in less than 5years,& i'm on the 4th set of brake pads!!! other than that it's a pretty good car
Always a mechanical problem
dodgeowner, 10/19/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We've had this car for 5 years and there has always been some mechanical problem that just won't go away or is easy to fix: faulty fuel pump (was replaced under warranty and still faulty); CV joint broken; blown head gasket in 2004;not as quiet to road noise as before; some interior light features broken; power lock doors from key entry never worked; speaker system wires faulty; radio control panel difficult size to replace with new system; for home repairs, the parts are all not easily accessible at all.
Wow!
greyfox, 07/26/2003
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought it used, dealer certified, 2.4L, 4 cyl, at 54k. I put Mobil One synthetic in it, had all four brakes done, tune-up, and now have 66k on it. I love it. Reliable, looks good, incredible sound system, handles well. To check hiway mileage, I did 150 miles, set the cruise for 62 mph, all highway, and got an incredible 36 mpg! I'm told it does use front brake pads, but that's a small price to pay for an all-around great car. I'd buy another newer one if I could. Hauls butt too, for a 4 cyl! Highly recommended.
1998 Dodge Stratus
godomino, 06/24/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car used with about 10,000 miles to start. Since my purchase in 1998 I have not had any problems with this car. I have just done routine maintenace on it. Have not had any components fail. Very good car!
Great car
AlOrlando, 10/24/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drive alot for business, and have not been let down or disappointed. The 2.4L engine has plenty of power for highway driving and gets good mileage. Just turned 96000 miles, and have replaced only battery, brakes, tires, drive belt, filters and plugs so no complaints there. Plenty of room inside, all though the roof line could have been a little higher. A 6 foot driver will brush the top on occaison. Good deal for the money, seats 5 people - no problem. Like the new ones, and would consider another Dodge.
Great car
Dean, 06/29/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I now have 90k miles on my Stratus and have had only one problem so far, and that's the head gasket leaking oil, which seems to be the norm for this car. It's fun to drive and looks good. I love this car, and am thinking about getting a new one.
Not too bad!
Justin, 03/05/2007
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So I bought this car with 228 000km on it and it has about 236,000. It has been back to Nb a couple of times. I only have had to replace the front brake pads! The engine makes unusual noises but then again i drive it pretty hard. It was kinda last minute decision to buy this car. Pick it up sick for a v6 but like i said its older and underpowered. Shakes on the highway and just in generally very poorly constructed. Transmission is so unreliable its a sin but still I'm attached to it. It isn't bad for first car owners
It will make you bankrupt
J. Gomes, 01/28/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a '98 Stratus ES for $6,000 in 2002 @ 79K miles. I drive about 18K miles/year. In 2003 I spent about $1,000 for fixing tie rods and stabilizer links and brakes and rotors. In the summer of 2004, I spent $3600 for fixing valves of three cylinders and changing the head gasket, distributor, timing belt, rotor, water pump etc etc etc..Now it is January of 2005 and the car's engine shakes and check engine light is on. The delearship thinks it is either two of the fuel injectors or valves again. Either way it will cost about $1,500. I am completely broke and frustrated, and in credit card debt.
1998 Stratus w/Auto+Slap Manual Trans
FishTale, 07/12/2007
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Was a Great Car for Me
JimW8, 07/16/2007
1998 Dodge Stratus ES 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My experience with my 1998 Dodge Stratus (2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine) was very good. The car was completely reliable and gave me only one problem at about 40K miles (transmission cooler hose leaked and was quickly and inexpensively repaired) until it hit 143,800 miles. Then the transmission went bad, so I sold it rather than spend the $1800 to have a rebuilt transmission put into it.
Stratus
diskullman, 05/28/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car looks great, runs great, when it runs. When it breaks, take it to your lawyer first, you'll get the repair done quicker. With 70,000 miles , this car has been through 4 sets of brakes. Cab forward, weight forward, with nothing doen to improve the brakes. The newer models have larger rotors & pads, which proves Chrysler knows there is something wrong. Replaced headgasket at 60,000 miles, car leaked oil like an old junker.I will NEVER buy another Chrysler product, new or used.
Satisfied so far
sabrina, 08/14/2005
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 98 Dodge Stratus 3 years ago and have had slim to no problems with it. I have had to have the fan belt tightened, and at around 90k miles I had to have new spark plugs and wires, thats it. It is good on gas and is a smooth ride. I will probabaly get another Dodge.
I love my Dodge
Christina Salem, Ore, 08/22/2002
1998 Dodge Stratus 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was the only kind of car I wanted when my husband and I set out to buy a new family car. A couple of my friends also owned Dodge Stratus's. I enjoyed both driving thiers, and riding. I wanted something big enough, and reliable to drive my family in, without looking like a "den mother". Taking into consideration the apperance and dependability of Dodge Stratus there was no choice. I LOVE MY DODGE STRATUS.