1998 Dodge Stratus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.04/5 Average
61 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2.4-liter engine with automatic transmission is now standard on the ES. New colors are available this year and numerous refinements are made to reduce noise and vibration.

Pros:
  • Huge interior. Great handling. Excellent value. Good looks
Cons:
  • Rear visibility.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 61.00
  • Dodge should be ashamed of themselves - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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.

  • Purchased New In 97 - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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 wasnt 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!

  • Looks will fool you - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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. Dont let the looks and extra features fool you. Chrysler should be ashamed of themsevles. I cant wait to get rid of this vehicle.

  • 1998 Dodge Stratus ES - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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. Its 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 havent had to do anything to it except that the A/C has just lost its charge so Ill be needing to get new hoses and refridgerant. Hope to get many more miles from it.

  • Been a good car for us. - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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 - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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)

  • Nice Car, Bad Engines - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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.

  • Wow! - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    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! Im told it does use front brake pads, but thats a small price to pay for an all-around great car. Id buy another newer one if I could. Hauls butt too, for a 4 cyl! Highly recommended.

  • A solid Car - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    Good car - had to replace head gasket at about 80k, but no major issues

  • review - 1998 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    great car, has really lasted, have well over 100,000 miles and looks and runs like it is new

Dodge Stratus Reviews By Year:
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