According to Au7o's analysis of 930+ owner reports, the 2002 Dodge Stratus has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure ($2,500-$5,000 repair) and 2.4L DOHC Head Gasket Failure ($600-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure with 400 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2001-2006 Dodge Stratus 2.7L V6, the same notorious 2.7L DOHC V6 sludge issue that plagues the Intrepid affects the 2nd generation Stratus. Inadequate oil drain-back passages in the cylinder heads allow oil to cook and form thick sludge deposits that clog passages and starve bearings of oil. The water pump is chain-driven inside the engine and when it leaks, coolant mixes with oil, dramatically accelerating sludge formation. Engine seizure often occurs between 60,000-100,000 miles. This engine earned a reputation as one of the worst ever produced by Chrysler.
Confirm the problem by checking oil pressure with a mechanical gauge, inspecting under the oil filler cap/valve covers for sludge, cutting open the oil filter, and pressure-testing the cooling system to check for an internal water pump leak contaminating the oil. Mild cases may sometimes be addressed with repeated short-interval oil and filter changes after removing the valve covers and oil pan to manually clean sludge and replace the oil pickup tube/screen, but most engines with knocking, low oil pressure, or coolant in the oil require full engine replacement or complete teardown/rebuild with updated timing components, internal water pump, oil pump, bearings, and thorough passage cleaning. Also replace the PCV valve, thermostat, and any compromised cooling components, then use the correct oil and strict 3,000-4,000 mile service intervals to prevent recurrence. Typical cost is about $800-$1,800 for limited cleaning/repair if caught early, but $3,500-$6,500+ for a quality rebuild or replacement engine installation.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Cloyes primary/secondary timing-chain, guide and tensioner kit
Timing-system branch when internal water-pump service or inspection requires chain-system replacement Fitment: 2001-2006 Stratus 2.7L sedan; sprockets and water pump are not included in this exact kit Live in-stock direct US product page…
High ConfidenceVerified400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
280 owners
On the 1995-2006 Dodge Stratus 2.4L DOHC, the 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder engine (used across both Stratus generations) is prone to head gasket failure, particularly when overheating occurs. The aluminum cylinder head warps more easily than cast iron, and once warped, the head gasket cannot maintain a proper seal. Coolant mixing with oil or exhaust gases entering the cooling system are the primary failure modes. While more reliable than the 2.7L V6, the 2.4L still requires careful cooling system maintenance. The factory composite head gasket has been superseded by improved MLS (multi-layer steel) designs.
Confirm head gasket failure with a cooling-system pressure test, combustion-gas/block test, and compression or leak-down test, then inspect for coolant in the oil and check the cylinder head and block deck for warpage after disassembly. Repair requires removing the cylinder head, machining or replacing the head if out of spec, and installing an updated MLS head gasket with new torque-to-yield head bolts; the timing belt, water pump, thermostat, and radiator cap should also be inspected or replaced if overdue to prevent repeat overheating. Flush contaminated oil and coolant, refill with the correct fluids, and verify radiator fan operation and overall cooling-system condition before returning the car to service. Typical repair cost is about $1,200-$2,500 depending on machine-shop work, related cooling-system parts, and whether the head must be replaced.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Fel-Pro HS9924PT-1 cylinder-head gasket set
Early 2.4L head-gasket repair after testing and machine-shop inspection Fitment: Live page verifies 2001 2.4L and catalog evidence covers early applications; select exact year/valve-cover/body configuration rather than extrapolating to 2…
Later 2.4L head-gasket repair where the nine-bolt valve-cover configuration matches Fitment: 2004-2006 2.4L with specified valve-cover configuration; not the full 1995-2006 range Live direct US product page with price and availability wh…
Fel-Pro ES71028 torque-to-yield head bolts with washers
Required new fasteners for the head-gasket repair Fitment: Live fitment lists 1995-2006 Stratus 2.4L; use the exact service-manual torque-angle procedure Live in-stock direct US product page when checked
High ConfidenceVerified280 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
250 owners
On the 1995-2006 Dodge Stratus, the 41TE (1st gen) and 42RLE (2nd gen) automatic transmissions in the Stratus suffer from solenoid pack failures that cause harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and limp mode. The solenoid pack contains the shift solenoids, torque converter clutch solenoid, and pressure control solenoid. Electrical connector corrosion is a common contributing factor. The solenoid pack is accessible through the oil pan without removing the transmission, making it a relatively affordable repair compared to a full transmission rebuild.
High Confidence250 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2001-2006 Dodge Stratus, the blend door actuator fails, causing the climate control to blow only hot or only cold air regardless of temperature setting. A clicking noise from behind the dash is the telltale sign of a failing actuator.
Common Symptoms
Clicking behind dashboard
Heat stuck on or off
Temperature doesn't change with dial
One side blows different temperature
How to Fix
Replace blend door actuator (Dorman 604-007). Located behind the center of the dash, requires partial dash disassembly. Some owners access it through the glove box opening for easier replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Temperature-blend actuator branch after commanding the actuator and inspecting the door/shaft Fitment: 2001-2006 Chrysler-built Stratus sedan; not the Mitsubishi-built coupe and not mode/recirculation positions Live direct US product pag…
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2001-2002 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus vehicles, equipped with beige interiors. The affected vehicles were previously repaired for a recall issue using an incorrect part. The incorrect part may not prevent the passenger side sun visor from detaching if the passenger frontal air bag deploys and the passenger side sun visor is folded down in a certain position.
Campaign #16V40100003/06/2016
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2000-2005 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 5, 1999, to December 17, 2004, 2001-2005 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured January 19, 2000, to March 18, 2005, 2001-2005 Chrysler Sebring vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
Campaign #15V33800002/06/2015
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Campaign #09E02500011/05/2009
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BALL JOINTS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SOCKET MAY HAVE BEEN EXCESSIVELY HARDENED WHICH COULD CAUSE IT TO CRACK NEAR THE RETAINING RING GROOVE ALLOWING THE BALL STUD TO SEPARATE UNDER IMPACT LOAD. THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS WERE SOLD AS FOUR PART NUMBERS, D10945, D10946, G10945, AND G10946. THE AFFECTED CONTROL ARMS, D10945 AND D10946, ARE STAMPED WITH THE FOLLOWING DATES ON THE BALL JOINTS: 134308, 135708, 100109, 102709, 104109, 105509, 107609, 108909, 110309, 113209, AND 116609. THE G10945 AND G10946 ARE THE SAME PART AS THE D10945 AND D10946 RESPECTIVELY. THEY ARE LABELED DIFFERENTLY DEPENDING ON THE AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER.
Campaign #09E05600009/10/2009
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
FEDERAL-MOGUL IS RECALLING CERTAIN REPLACEMENT CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES, PART NUMBERS K7425, 10945, FA4510X, K7427, 10946, AND FA4611X, SOLD FOR USE ON VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BALL JOINT ON THE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE BALL STUD TO WEAR THROUGH THE CONTROL ARM HOUSING RESULTING IN NOISE AND/OR SEPARATION OF THE BALL STUD FROM THE HOUSING.
According to Au7o's analysis of 930+ owner reports, the 2002 Dodge Stratus has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure, 2.4L DOHC Head Gasket Failure, Automatic Transmission Solenoid Pack Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Stratus reliable?
The 2002 Dodge Stratus has 4 known issues documented across 930+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure and 2.4L DOHC Head Gasket Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Stratus problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Stratus issues range from $100 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure, typically costs $2,500-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2001-2006 Dodge Stratus 2.7L V6 Engine Oil Sludge Buildup and Failure?
The same notorious 2.7L DOHC V6 sludge issue that plagues the Intrepid affects the 2nd generation Stratus. Inadequate oil drain-back passages in the cylinder heads allow oil to cook and form thick sludge deposits that clog passages and starve bearings of oil. The water pump is ch… Repairs typically run $2,500-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2006 Dodge Stratus 2.4L DOHC Head Gasket Failure?
The 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder engine (used across both Stratus generations) is prone to head gasket failure, particularly when overheating occurs. The aluminum cylinder head warps more easily than cast iron, and once warped, the head gasket cannot maintain a proper seal. Coolant mixin… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2006 Dodge Stratus Automatic Transmission Solenoid Pack Failure?
The 41TE (1st gen) and 42RLE (2nd gen) automatic transmissions in the Stratus suffer from solenoid pack failures that cause harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and limp mode. The solenoid pack contains the shift solenoids, torque converter clutch solenoid, and pressure control so… Repairs typically run $200-$2,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001-2006 Dodge Stratus HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure?
The blend door actuator fails, causing the climate control to blow only hot or only cold air regardless of temperature setting. A clicking noise from behind the dash is the telltale sign of a failing actuator. Repairs typically run $100-$350. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
