2004 Dodge Stratus Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.27/5 Average
158 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Chrysler and Dodge have restyled most vehicles this year to bring out similarities and cohesiveness among the Chrysler group cars. To that end, the Stratus sedan receives a new front fascia, and R/T sedans get a monochromatic grille. Sedan interior changes include the addition of steering wheel-mounted audio controls and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, along with new door panels, new seat fabric and three new interior choices. Two new 16-inch wheel options, plus two new exterior colors have been added as well. Also this year, Stratus sedans without optional antilock brakes receive a downgraded braking system with rear drums in place of discs. On the plus side, traction control is now available when combined with antilock brakes. A manual transmission is no longer available. Changes to the coupe are minimal. The interior features a new "Satin Silver" finish on the center stack bezels, and door accents.

Pros:
  • Exceptional value, attractive shape, fun to drive.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 158.00
  • Excellent catch!!! - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    I bought my car with 90,000 miles on it and today it has 132,000 miles. The repairs are new battery, new engine serpentine belt, oxygen sensor, regular synthetic oil changes and ceramic brakes. The car runs like a champ!!! Excellent buy!

  • Horrible first car - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    In overall it was a waste of money. The car was bought for $3,000 and today Im selling it for $1000 and still NO ONE wants to buy it. I have wasted so much money in relating this car. First it started by changing the batteries, then changing the spark plugs (now currently riding with 5 spark plugs out of 6, because one is messed up). Now the car needs a motor mount because it shakes crazily and the oil light comes on every time I break and the suspensions sound tremendously while going over the smallest little holes in the streets. Mechanics told me it now has low oil pressure and with all the problems that it STILL has, its better off junking it and buying a new one. The car has 130k miles and only had it for a year. Yeah, American cars arent worth it.

  • Great commuter with a fun ride - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    I bought this vehicle used in 2011 with 89k miles and still currently drive it at 130k. This car has been my favorite to drive out of what Ive had. The 2.7 v6 does a great job and gives you plenty of acceleration. Handling is wonderful handles sharp on winding roads with minimal body lean. it handled exceptional over the Ohio roads in winter for a front wheel drive. The seats became a little uncomfortable on longer rides but not enough to be a major nuisance. No major mechanical work done other than regular maintenance. Had a brake line replaced a year or so ago.

  • Think again before buying this nightmare - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    Dodge Stratus SE V6 2.7L. Bought this car in 2004 and within two years it needed a new transmission and battery. The battery is difficult to change yourself because its placed behind the driverside tire underneath the panel. The "recommended spark plugs" not so good, causes to many misfires. The anti-freeze reservior is of poor quality and needed replacing because it started to melt with the recommended antifreeze. The fule filter needed replacing twice. Very poor performance driving this car uphill not a lot of power uphill. With all the problems I had with this car I will never buy another dodge vehicle again.

  • I will miss this car! - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    I owned this car for 7 years and put 165,000 miles on it. I never had a mechanical problem with it ever. It was fast enough, but what I liked the most was the handling. I never thought there was a curve I couldnt take without minimal braking. This car alo had exceptional top-end passing ability. If you ever neede to go from 70-80 mph quickly, you could depend on the Stratus R/T to do it. I got a lot of compliments on the cars appearance and it was nice to be the only person I know to have one. I cant believe they didnt sell more of these. I really cant put into words how much I enjoyed this car. I will miss her greatly.

  • I loved my Stratus - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    I just traded in my 2004 Stratus after 7 years and 130,000 miles. I never had any major mechanical failure, just regular maintenance. It was a very reliable car. It was hands-down the best car Ive ever had. I only traded it in because my family just needed something a little bigger.

  • Eight years and still glad I bought it! - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    Bought a 2004 Stratus R/T coupe brand new and have not regretted it. The V6 provides plenty of power and I get 28 to 30 mpg on the highway! Great looking car with zero mechanical issues.

  • Love My Stratus - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    Bought this car used with less than 70,000 miles on it. It has TONS of power, hugs the curves, and rides smooth. I might say it has too much power-Im always having to slow it down on the freeway, because its up to 80mph and over without even feeling like it. Looks sporty and gets alot of compliments. It does make a bit of a whining noise on hills, but theres no decrease in power at all. My only issue with it is the cab forward design makes stop lights hard to see sometimes-I have to lean forward. But a small inconvenience compared to how amazing this car drives and handles. And I got my first speeding ticket in it!

  • Well it started off being a nice car.... - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    Bought the car and didnt have any trouble the first year, second year the computer was replaced and alternator and battery. Then the battery was replaced again. The car kept running the battery down so I took the alternator to a parts store to be checked, it came out ok - 4 times checked. They said the computer does the regulating for the alternator so I will have to get the computer checked AGAIN. If anyone has any ideas, please submit to me. I have checked the car with a diagnostic computer and its returning no errors. Battery light stays on when cranked.

  • Great car for great value - 2004 Dodge Stratus
    By -

    This was my first car and I didnt buy it too long ago. Has 84,000 miles and in good condition! Only cost me $4,500. Also came with a fresh set of tires. The car is an overall very good buy. It rides smoothly and has that "low" feeling. There is a limited amount of body roll while turning due to a stiffer suspension. Even though its a coupe, the back seat is rather large and very comfortable. The trunk space is also pretty large, it managed to fit over $160 worth of groceries. Though the car is cheap, reliable, and sporty, the build quality isnt spot on. The front and rear bumper is made of cheap plastic, which is a little flimsy. The dashboard is rubber and bulges out when hot.

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