Used 2005 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.
Good Car for the Money
12220adc, 06/27/2015
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2005 R/T sedan new in early 2006. It was the last of the 05's on the lot so got a significant discount from the sticker. Overall it's been a good car for the money. It's sporty looking, comfortable, versatile and fun to drive. After nearly 10 years of ownership and 116K miles later, the engine runs very strong. I've had to put money primarily into suspension components like the control arms and ball joints which has been a bit irritating.
Dependable
kristee1, 09/09/2012
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
22 of 23 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in Jan 2006, since have raised 3 kids in it and it currently has 200,000 miles. It has had a few issues, the front right passenger floor board leaks, dealer said that wasnt under warranty, and they wanted 1500 to fix it. So its always leaked! Then I went over some train tracks and the belt came off, took 10 different shops and about a yr to get the belt and pulley on together so they ran as a unit, cause it was eating about a belt a week. Trans and motor, never had not one issue, though Im a stickler about preventative maintaince.
Boutght used, running well
LARRYH, 10/02/2009
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Needed car for my daughter to drive for school and activities. Found this, with low miles (23,000 when we bought it). It has been a really enjoyable little car. My daughter loves to drive it, and, even with the 2.4 4 cylinder, it has decent pickup and driveability. Seats are comfortable, mileage is decent (average 25 mpg). Was not really expecting much based on reviews, but have been pleased. My daughter has driven in 12,000 miles since purchase, and it has been completely reliable so far.
Disappointed
bran222, 05/01/2008
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
We bought this car with 18 miles. It was our first 'New' car. The second day we owned it the engine light came on. We had to have the emissions system replaced. Since then the driver's power window has had to be fixed, I have taken it to the dealer 3 times about the brakes and transmission and they say everything is okay. Now that it's just out of warranty (we hit 40,000 last month) I am told the front wheel bearings both need to be replaced! I know the transmission still slips and is very jerky or slow to shift into gear. The brakes have been loud for months. Trade in is 8,000 and I have the V6 engine! Very disappointed, nothing but problems from the start!
After 5 years worth of abuse, it's still a fun car...
wy_themoparguy, 02/11/2011
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
Mine's actually an SXT 2.7 V6, not an R/T V6, but Edmunds didn't have an entry for SXT 2.7 V6... Anyway, I bought this car used in June of '06, and have enjoyed it every day since. It has a very sporty feel, handles well, and is built pretty well overall.
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT FAILED at 80K mil
Dodge Customer, 11/27/2009
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
20 of 23 people found this review helpful
The timing belt failed at 80K on my 2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 2.4 liter which caused 2 engine valves to be bent and the first time my service manual said anything about the timing belt is to change it at 90K miles. It did not say anything about inspecting or anything else concerning the timing belt before then.So now I'm stuck with a $1650 engine repair when this could have been avoided if Dodge at least suggested inspection of the timing belt at 60K or 70K miles.Not happy!
Great Value Midsize Sedan
jklag11, 05/27/2013
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Bought my 2005 Dodge Stratus SXT Sedan 2 years ago with 64,000 miles on it. Just passing 85,000 miles now and have not had a single repair yet. Bought the car for about $5,000 less than a same-year Camry or Accord, and have not regretted that decision once. Besides the fact that the Stratus is far and away more attractive than either, it has a much more spacious interior and has very good handling for a mid-2000s midsize sedan. My only complaint to date has been that I tend to drive more city than highway, and have never been able to meet either the EPA (22 mpg) or Edmunds predicted (19 mpg) city ratings. Otherwise, very happy with my Stratus!
Love
Taylor, 08/06/2015
updated 02/14/2017
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
**Update** I sold my Stratus Jan 2016, only because I needed an AWD SUV for constant trips over a snowy mountain pass. Still loved my Stratus and miss it from time to time! I also updated Acceleration to reflect "poor". This car had low HP, and accelerated very slowly - my only issue with it. ********************************************************************************************* I love my Dodge Stratus. I have owned my stratus for 3 years now. Not that it really matters, but mine is white. I purchased it with 150k miles and have put 30.5k on it in my time driving it. It drives very smooth, and handles nicely. My interior is all black, only cloth, but still very nice. I am very particular about keeping it clean so mine is spotless. It always feels comfortable. The only issue I have with my stratus is that it accelerates slowly. Other than that, this car has been perfect for me. I do not look forward to the fact that mine has so many miles, I'm worried it'll start to go out soon. This worries me because I don't want to have to get another car, because I love mine!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
It's great for the money
jarrod, 01/31/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I like the car so far. It is a little slow and loud, but that's what you get for havign a four-cylinder. The gas milege improves over time. I have noticed the tires have to stay totally balanced for a good smooth ride. Special edition package is great, looks a little classy, adds alot of value to the car
Excellent for the money
William, 01/11/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle in november of 2004 and I love it. Dodge is building their vehicles much better then they used to. I recently found out that they partnered with Mitsubishi and merged with Mercedez Benz. I have the four cylinder and it gets 25 mpg between both city/highway driving, yay! Horsepower is decent. It wont win a race, but it's enough, and the interior design is sweet.
In love with my Stratus
Meg, 12/29/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I searched all over the Sacramento area to find my 4 door 2.7L V6 Stratus in the midnight blue. I drove it home and instantly fell in love. Wonderfully reliable, a nice aggresive acceleration, and so roomy inside. My husband was reluctant to buy it since he has a mustang but after about 2 weeks was totally smitten!
horrible money pit
Jocelyn mary, 12/14/2015
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
This car has caused me nothing but problem's!! The wheel barring for this car are smaller then usual and have to be replaced every year! Struts are gone. Already replaced timing belt long time ago! Exhaust and under carriage rotted and replaced a lot!!! Don't Ever buy! I plan to bring mine to a demo derby next fall!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Not what I expected
slindom, 08/10/2011
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We have owned this car since it had 21,000 miles and was a good car till about 30,000 then the injectors started going one at a time. It was under warrenty so took it to local dealer to be fixed they would only change one at a time as they went out so was back four times before it was done. Now car has about 70,000 and is having shifting problems it will downshift for no reason even at highway speeds which can't be good for the engine or trans. Have had it to dealer not under warrenty anymore so costs 99.95 every time for them to test it only to tell me nothings is wrong. What a joke my advice is if you have this car dump it before you reach 70,000
Great Car
George Noble, 08/17/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned Chrysler's in the past and just traded my 2000 Stratus for a 2005. The price was surpisingly good, the looks and performance are great. I have owned Chrysler products in the past and have never been sorry. Dependable and fun to drive. I would not want another brand of car.
the stratus
shaggy2598, 09/10/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i have loved this car ever since I test drove. I would recommend this car to anyone.
stratus R/T sedan
james anthony, 09/17/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Dodge will not stand behind this car. I enjoy this sedan for its performance and value, but the paint has issues. Dodge wants to warranty a paint job. The car has only been in my possesion for a short time and they want to paint it. I want it replaced. Diamler- Chrysler says no way! They have lost a loyal customer.
Not worth it
Willaim, 04/01/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I wouldn't recommend this vehicle. I purchased mine in nov 04 and have had problems with the brakes, windshield leaking, car stalling, and the engine. The car is very noisy and the engine makes all kinds of funny sounds that the dealership keeps rubbing off as wind noise. Had to have my windshield resealed and the brakes are very loud. Now the car acts like it wants to stall in idle and it's an automatic transmission. I have recently purchased a Camry to replace it. I'm almost willing to let the bank repossess the car, so what does that tell you? Definately not worth your time and money.
SXT sedan review
Robbie May, 07/18/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought a Stratus SXT sedan (4 cyl), and I have liked it from the start. The handling is great. I get about 27.5 mpg from the car, so that's pretty good too. I love the styling of the car, both exterior and interior. I get complimented all the tme about the car. And now, the aftermarket scene is starting to pick up.
DO NOT EVER BUY !
Duhkneez, 06/24/2008
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 5 people found this review helpful
I thought buying a car only a year old with low mileage would be a good idea. Not at all. I've had nothing but problems from day 1. The dealership and the car are awful. I've had to bring it in the shop because my check engine light won't stay off. I've had many parts replaced and now I can't pass my inspection. I will never buy anything but a Toyota, Honda or Nissan again. My old Nissan and Toyota, I bought older and with higher mileage and had no problems. I'm stuck now cause I've dumped so much money it.
Disappointed
Annie, 09/16/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 11 months and it is currently at the dealership because I need a new engine at 20,000 miles. I am very disapointed since this is the first American car I have bought. I owned a 2003 Honda Civic prior to this, and I regret that I ever got rid of it to buy an American car. I wasn't even given a rental by the dealer. I wouldn't recommend this car to anyone. The worst part of it all, I am already upside down on my loan after 1 year. The depreciation of the value is astronomical. I just checked online and my 2003 Civic is worth more today than my '05 Stratus per Kelly Blue Book, go figure.
What a pile of junk!
4starks, 06/06/2011
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 36k on it from Hertz Car Sales in Pasco. They say they have a money back guarentee for 7 days...I call BS on that. I took it back to them as it was making a noise, they couldn't hear it so they wouldn't honor it. It has had nothing but problems since day 1!! Bad mileage, small breakdowns etc and NOW, my crank is bad and it is going to cost me a new engine. Just turned 100k. I hate this freaking car, and I hate Hertz Car Sales.
Review
jmosley, 12/23/2009
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first got the car, it was great. Everything worked fine. Using the flex fuel was great, until the gas gauge stopped working... Then the transmission slipped... Then the alloy wheel got a crack in it... Then the fan for heating/ac must have lost a blade and sounds like an airplane even on 1. Then the heat stopped working at an idle and wont kick on until 2 thousand rpm's. And now, in 24 degree weather, the drivers window decides the go down and not back up. Dealership wants 37 bucks just to put it up without fixing the problem, junkyard wants 35 bucks for the switch and 35 bucks for the motor. If I had it to do over, I wouldn't. But having a trade in value of nearly nothing stinks.
RT is a Hot Rod
kevin, 12/10/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus R/T 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The RT Sedan 2.7L Magnum is an excellent choice if you want sharp handling, a lively engine (think fast), and firm ride (avoid the truck lanes). It comes with 17's, fog lights, and the automatic version has a +/- shifter, which works really well. Four wheel disc brakes, and traction control, keep the shiny side up. A mid console display provides temperature, real time gas mileage and average MPG, metric, etc. and the gauges are very easy to read. It's a fun, top of the line subluxury, sedan able to handle the most spirited driving.
I love my Dodge
gellis8491, 04/14/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like the way my car rides, and I like the way it looks. It's very dependable. I go out of town with it a lot, and havent had any problems with it.
2005 stratus
terry, 06/11/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For the money, it seems to be a good car. We like the leather, and the sporty appearance of the chrome package. The fuel mileage was poor at first (19 Hwy) but seems to be improving.
Very pleased with my Stratus
Deb, 08/26/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Stratus rides extremely smoothly, is very comfortable and extremely quiet. The 4-cylinder engine has excellent pick-up and I get great gas mileage.
Like riding on Air.....
Sherry, 12/31/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is so comfortable. Not only is it great to drive, but I've found that it is a nice family car. The only word that I can say is "Comfortable". Very smooth and so far no mechanical problems. I am loving the smooth ride and decent stereo. I think I will have the car for a long time.
Excellent Value
Chaz, 02/24/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has everything I need; comfort, style and performance. Not all of us are in the market for a BMW. Having read the Edmunds review, I have to say that this car is under-rated and that Edmunds has a certain snobishness when it comes to rating cars. We are not all "Speed Racers" or "Track Demons". This is good solid transportation with style, comfort and a host of convenience features. A lot of what is out there is in fact "over engineered" for the needs of the average driver. Dodge and it's parent company have tapped into a market segment where their car does not look like a cookie cutter in style and stands apart from the rest. I have gotten many, many compliments on the car.
A good & reliable car
Annie, 05/06/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car whether you drive in the city or highway. It is a good and sturdy car. It does great on gas mileage. I am disappointed at the comfort of the interior. The seats are uncomfortable for long trips. But if you intend to drive this car daily to work and around the city, it is the right size and the right car for you.
2004 Stratus
Jeffrew, 10/02/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for a year and I love it as much today as I did when I saw it. It's a nice-looking car with excellent performance. I highly recommned this car.
MY CAR
ROYM, 10/09/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
VERY NICE CAR GREAT GAS MILEAGE
Old Reliable
dingo9, 10/14/2004
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent family transportation, good fuel economy, stylish, carries lots of cargo (camping gear), comfortable for long highway drives (8 hours). I like it! My previous car was another Stratus, which still ran great after 187000 miles!
Very Good
MaryPaige Anderson, 03/19/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd Stratus and I love it as does everyone who has rode in it. It's sporty looking and great on gas. Would I buy another one? Perhaps. But I'm looking for something a bit larger now as in the new Dodge Charger. Although I love my Stratus. Dodge builds great vehicles; I have 5 Dodge vehicles now that includes the Stratus and 4 trucks. You can't go wrong with a Dodge built vehicle; they last forever!
Wonderful car
Steve McKnelly, 07/14/2005
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have the SXT Special Edition and I love it! Quiet on the inside with a nice, deep exhaust note on the outside. The only problem I've run into with this car involves the O2 sensors. One of them died in the first 12,000 miles. When they replaced it at the dealership, it wasn't until I returned with the same problem that they learned there was a misprint in the service manual. If you have work done on this problem and it doesn't go away after service, have the dealership verify the part number with Dodge.
The Stratus is Awesome!
Rick, 02/17/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! It's very comfortable, the dash is cool with the racing style guages. An extremely enjoyable car to drive!
Give it a chance
Naomi, 04/12/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got this car and it is a very nice car, fun to drive and everyone I know really likes it. In fact 2 of my friends are getting one. It is under $20,000 unlike most cars with the same options. I feel it is a good car with lots of room in the back. My friend is 6'2 and fit in it w/o hitting his knees on my seat. Overall I give it a 10. My reason I got it is because a friend of mine has had theirs for 3 years and loves it and has been very reliable for her.
Loving it
Jennifer, 05/17/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got my car an year ago and I love it so much. I only had one problem with it. That's when my tranmission went out in it. But I didn't have to pay an cent to get it fixed. It's so much fun to drive and anyone who rides with me loves it as much as me.
Awsome and Inexpensive
Hope, 05/29/2006
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When we first got the car I wasn't so into it. Now I love it. The sound system is great, it's comfortable and has a sleek design. We couldn't have asked for a better car at the price we payed.
Good so far
watcher7, 03/10/2007
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased used with 26,000 miles have 36,000 now with no problems mine is a 2.7l flex fuel. Very comfortable and quiet ride. Transmission seems to lose fluid slowly over a long period of time but find no leaks had a few rough gear changes but other wise flawless . Plan to keep and have no regrets so far.
What a piece of absolute garbage!!!
Jessi, 03/21/2008
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well, my husband already had the car when we got married in 09-06.It was under factory until 36,000 Miles. At about 38,000 Miles, the crank seal went out because of play in the crank. It was $400 to fix the seal, and $2000 if we wanted to fix the crank. Since we didn't fix the crank, the seal went out like 2 days later and we have to put like 5 quarts of oil in it a week because it just pours out. Also, around the same time, the transmission has begun to jerk when it's put into gear. We took good care of the car (oil changes, scheduled maintenance, etc.) and it is still falling apart at 38,000 Miles. It's such a freaking piece of crap. We're stuck with it though because we still owe $10, 000 on it.
I love this car!
ktracy03, 04/26/2008
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I owned my stratus for 2 years, the ONLY reason I traded it is because my husband wanted a Charger, only because he would have done it for me, did I do this for him. I did absolutely love this car though, it was sharp looking, comfortable, and just "fit ME" like it was made for me. I highly recommend this car for reliability, comfort, looks, etc.
What's up with the Brakes
Not Happy, 05/06/2008
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I hate my Stratus. The interior is dark. Should be overhead lights or lighting on the shift. And the brakes. Ha - mine squeal so bad I'm embarrassed to stop beside someone. The dealership claims there is nothing wrong. I read that if you reverse the calibers it was suppose to help, but my mechanic doesn't understand what that would do. The sound is worse then a dump truck. I hate this car and if I wasn't so upside down on it,I would trade it in today, Calling Dodge or Chrysler doesn't help.
I would never buy a Dodge again!
DonnaGrace64, 12/01/2009
2005 Dodge Stratus SXT 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
When I purchased this car in Dec 2005 and it still had miles left on the original warranty, I was happy. But I wasn't thinking that I needed to get it in for servce right away and within a few months I had to replace the transmission. Now the Shock Mounts/struts holding the rear shocks in place have broken and I need to replace them. I have so many problems with this car ever since I bought it - and the dealership I took it to for service just expects me to accept the broken mounts due to "salt and corrosion" as normal -even though the car is only about 5 years from the manufacture date- That I should have no problem with having to pay $550.00 for this repair. I'll never buy a Dodge again!!!