Dodge Stratus Coupe (2005 year). Manual

CLUTCH FLUID (MANUAL TRANSAXLE)

To check the clutch fluid

The clutch fluid in the clutch master cylinder should be
checked when performing other underhood services. In
addition, the system should be checked for leakage at the
same time. Check to make certain that the clutch fluid
level is always between the MAX and MIN level mark-
ings on the fluid reservoir and refill the fluid, if necessary.
A rapid fluid loss indicates a leak in the clutch system
which should be inspected by an authorized dealer and
repaired immediately.

To replace the fluid

Recommended brake fluid conforming to DOT 3 or DOT 4
should be used.
The reservoir cap must be fully tightened to avoid contami-
nation from foreign matter or moisture.

CAUTION!

• Do not allow petroleum-based fluid to contact,

mix with, or otherwise contaminate the clutch
fluid. Seal damage will result.

• Take care in handling clutch fluid as it may cause

damage to painted surfaces.

• Use only the specified clutch fluid.

Also, the additives in different brands may result
in a chemical reaction when mixed together, so
avoid mixing different brands if possible.

• Keep the reservoir tank cap closed to prevent the

clutch fluid from deteriorating due to moisture or
air exposure.

M10A0040

Good

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MAINTENANCE

BATTERY

The condition of the battery is very important for quick
starting and to keep the vehicle’s electrical system work-
ing properly. Check the battery regularly.

If battery performance is suspect, have the battery and
charging system tested by an authorized Mitsubishi
dealer.

NOTE
1. After replacing the battery, the electronic control sys-
tem data for the automatic transaxle, etc., will be erased.
As a result, shifting may be rough.
Shifting will become smoother after several changes in
speed.

2. Memory data for settings made by the user may be
erased when the battery is replaced. If this happens,
establish the settings again using the relevant procedures.

Checking battery electrolyte level
Use the following procedure to check the battery electro-
lyte level.

Open the lid on the battery cover (if so equipped).

NOTE

: Be sure to close the battery cover after checking

the battery fluid level and after replacing the battery.

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325

Insert the tip of a screwdriver at the edge of the cap, pry
gently to remove the cap.

The inside of the battery is divided into several compart-
ments.
Check the electrolyte level (A) in each cell.
The electrolyte level must be within the range (B) shown
in the illustration.
If it is necessary to add fluid, add only distilled water. Do
not overfill above the top of the range because a spill
during driving could cause damage.

B = .31 in

(8 mm)

Cell

M07B0110

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MAINTENANCE

WARNING!

• If the battery goes flat, be sure to check the battery

electrolyte level before connecting booster cables.

• After checking the battery electrolyte level, make

sure the caps are fitted securely.

• If any of the caps has a loose fit, replace the

battery.

During cold weather

The capacity of the battery is reduced at low tempera-
tures. This is the result of its chemical and physical
properties and this is why a very cold battery, particu-
larly one that is not fully charged, will only deliver a
fraction of the starter current that is normally available.
It is recommended that you have the battery checked by
an authorized dealer before the start of cold weather and,
if necessary, have it charged or replaced. This not only
ensures reliable starting, but prolongs battery life.

Disconnection and connection

To disconnect the battery cable, stop the engine, discon-
nect the negative terminal first, then the positive termi-
nal. To reconnect the battery, first connect the positive
terminal and then the negative terminal, before starting
the vehicle.

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327

WARNING!

• Never disconnect the battery while the engine is

running; doing so could damage the vehicle’s
electrical components.

• Never short-circuit the battery; doing so could

cause it to overheat and be damaged.

• Keep sparks, cigarettes and flames away from the

battery because the battery may produce an explo-
sion.

• Electrolyte (battery acid) is corrosive diluted sul-

furic acid. If electrolyte comes in contact with,
your hands, eyes, clothes, or the coated surface of
your vehicle, thoroughly flush the area with wa-
ter. If electrolyte gets in your eyes, flush them
with water immediately and get prompt medical
attention.

WARNING!

• Ventilate the area when charging or using the

battery in an enclosed space.

• Always wear protective clothing and goggles

when working with the battery, or have a skilled
technician do it.

• If the battery is to be quick-charged, first discon-

nect the battery cables from the vehicle.

• In order to prevent a short circuit, be sure to

disconnect the negative(-) terminal first, and re-
connect it last.

• If the electrolyte level is very low, have the battery

checked at an authorized dealer.

• Battery posts, terminals and related accessories

contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands
after handling.

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MAINTENANCE

NOTE
1. Check each battery terminal for corrosion. If necessary,
neutralize corrosion by washing with a solution of bak-
ing soda and water. Apply grease to posts and clamps
after cleaning or tightening.

2. Before cleaning the battery, tighten all filler port caps
to prevent foreign matter from entering the battery.

3. Check to see if the battery is securely installed and
cannot be moved. Also check each terminal for tightness.

4. When the vehicle is to be left unused for a long period
of time, remove the battery and store it in a place where
the battery fluid will not freeze. The battery should be
stored only in a fully charged condition.

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE

The automatic transaxle should be maintained and ser-
viced by an authorized dealer to obtain the best perfor-
mance and maximize life. It is important that the trans-
axle fluid be maintained at the level prescribed.

M05A0530

Good

MAINTENANCE

329

To check the fluid level

The fluid level should be checked when the engine
temperature gauge indicates a normal warmed up con-
dition and the fluid in the transaxle is heated to its
normal operating temperature. Operation with an im-
proper fluid level will greatly reduce the life of the
transaxle and the fluid.

Procedure for checking the fluid level

1. With the parking brake engaged and the engine idling,
select each gear momentarily, ending with the selector
lever in the “N” (NEUTRAL) position.

2. The fluid level should be at the HOT mark, but never
above the HOT mark when the engine is at its normal
warmed up condition. Add or drain as necessary to bring
the fluid to this prescribed level.

3. Make certain that the dipstick cap is reseated properly
to prevent dirt and water from entering the transaxle.

WARNING!

Transaxle fluid is extremely flammable and poison-
ous. Do not spill fluid when adding or draining.

To add or change the fluid

Use only recommended Mopar ATF+4 automatic trans-
mission fluid to ensure optimum transaxle performance.

M05A0460

Drain plug

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MAINTENANCE

Special additives
DaimlerChrysler does not recommend the addition of
any fluid additives to the transaxle.

MANUAL TRANSAXLE

Add oil to maintain the proper level. Refill or change oil
according to the scheduled maintenance table.

Lubricant

Gear Oil Classification GL-4

Viscosity range

SAE75W-90 or 75W-85W

DISC BRAKE PADS, REAR DRUM BRAKE
LININGS AND REAR WHEEL CYLINDERS

Proper brakes are essential to safe operation of your
vehicle. Check brake pads and rear brake linings for
wear, and check rear wheel cylinders for leakage.
For proper braking performance, replace brake pads with
original equipment type pads.

BRAKE HOSES

Brake hoses and tubing should be checked for:

1. Severe surface cracking, scuffing or worn spots. If the
casing of the hose is exposed by cracks or abrasions in the

rubber hose cover, the hose should be replaced. Deterio-
ration of the hose could cause brake failure.

2. Faulty installation may cause twisting, or wheel, tire
or chassis interference.

BALL JOINT, STEERING LINKAGE SEAL AND
DRIVE SHAFT BOOTS

Check the following parts for damage and grease leak-
age:

1. Ball joint boots of the front suspension and steering
linkage

2. Bellows on both ends of the drive shaft

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

The entire SRS system must be inspected by an autho-
rized dealer 10 years after the vehicle manufacture date
shown on the certification label. [See “SRS servicing” on
page 101.]

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331

HOOD LOCK RELEASE MECHANISM AND
SAFETY CATCH

The door hinges, trunk hinges, hood lock release mecha-
nism and hood safety catch should be inspected, cleaned,
and lubricated as required to maintain ease of operation
and to provide protection against rust and wear. Apply
Multipurpose Grease NLGI Grade 2 sparingly to all
sliding contact areas of the hood latch and release lever.
Work lubricant into the hood lock mechanism until all
frictional surfaces are covered.
Also, apply a film of the same lubricant to the pivot
contact areas of the safety catch.

EXHAUST SYSTEM

WARNING!

Carbon monoxide gas found in the vehicle’s exhaust
is poisonous. Inhalation of exhaust fumes can cause
unconsciousness or death.

The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle interior is a properly maintained engine

exhaust system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the exhaust
system; when exhaust fumes can be detected inside the
vehicle; or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is
damaged, have a competent technician inspect the com-
plete exhaust system and adjacent body areas for broken,
damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts.
In addition inspect the exhaust system each time the
vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as
required.
Open seams or loose connections could permit danger-
ous exhaust fumes to seep into the trunk and passenger
compartments.
Do this service when performing underbody service.

Check for any of the following conditions:
1. Check for holes or exhaust gas leakage caused by
corrosion or damage.

2. Check the joints and connections for looseness or
exhaust gas leakage.

3. Check the rubber hangers and brackets for damage.

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MAINTENANCE

WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES

Check the wiper blades occasionally. Periodic cleaning of
the wiper blades is suggested to remove the accumula-
tion of salt and road film. The wiper blade arms and glass
areas should be cleaned with a sponge or cloth and a
mild detergent or non-abrasive cleaner.
If the blades continue to streak or smear, they should be
replaced.

NOTE

: Do not operate wipers for long periods on dry

glass; this accelerates deterioration of the rubber and
could scratch the glass.

Windshield washers

The windshield washer reservoir is in the engine com-
partment. Check the fluid level at regular intervals and
replenish the fluid if necessary.

NOTE

: When freezing weather is anticipated flush out

the water in the reservoir by operating the pump. Fill the
reservoir with windshield antifreeze (not radiator anti-
freeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to flush
out any residual water.

M31A0730

MAINTENANCE

333

DRIVE BELT (FOR GENERATOR, WATER PUMP,
POWER STEERING PUMP)

Check the tension of the drive belt. The deflection must
be within specifications, when depressed at a point
midway between the pulleys as shown in the illustrations
with a force of about 100 N (22 lb.).

Inspect the drive belt for evidence of cuts and cracks, and
replace it if damaged. When replacing the belt with a new
belt, make sure that there is no interference between the
belt and other engine components.
Then, check the tension of the belt at the designated
point. The deflection must be within specification.

M50A0620

Water pump pulley

Crank shaft
pulley

Power steering
pump pulley

A/C
pulley

2.4 liter engine

M50A0820

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335

Amount of belt deflection

in (mm)

Standard value

Used belt

New belt

.27 to .33

(6.9 to 8.5)

.29 to .33

(7.4 to 8.5)

.17 to .21

(4.4 to 5.4)

.46 to .61

(11.8 to 15.5)

.50 to .57

(12.6 to 14.4)

.34 to .44

(8.8 to 11.1)

.43 to .56

(11.0 to 14.3)

.46 to .52

(11.7 to 13.3)

.33 to .41

(8.4 to 10.4)

.33 to .43

(8.5 to 10.9)

.35 to .40

(9.0 to 10.1)

.24 to .30

(6.2 to 7.6)

WARNING!

Do not check or touch the drive belt with the engine
running, or serious injury may result.

TIMING BELT

The timing belt should be replaced with a new one at the
mileage specified on the scheduled maintenance chart.

TIRES

WARNING!

Driving with tires that are worn or improperly inflated
can result in a collision, and serious or fatal injury.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the following
terms:

•

Cold tire pressure:
1. The measured pressure after the vehicle has been
parked for at least three hours, or
2. The measured pressure when the vehicle is driven
less than 1 mile (1.6km) after having been parked for
three hours.

•

Maximum inflation pressure : the maximum permis-

sible cold tire inflation pressure for this tire

•

Recommended inflation pressure : the inflation pres-

sure for optimum tire performance

•

Intended outboard sidewall :
1. The sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white
lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model
name molding that is higher or deeper than the same
molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or

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2. The outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire
that has a particular side that must always face out-
ward when mounted on a vehicle.

•

Rim : a metal support for a tire or a tire and tube

assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.

Tire Markings

Size Designation
EXAMPLE: P215/65R15

Passenger car tire size based on U.S.A. design

standards

215

Section width in milimeters (mm)

Aspect ratio in percent (%)

Ratio of section height to section width of tire.

Construction code

•

9R9 means radial construction.

•

9D9 means diagonal or bias construction.

Rim diameter in inches (in)

NOTE

• European/Japanese metric tire sizing is based on

European/Japanese design standards. Tires designed
to these standards have the tire size molded into the
sidewall beginning with the section width. The letter

9P9 is absent from this tire size designation. Example:
215/65R15 96H.

• LT (Light Truck) -metric tire sizing is based on U.S.A.

design standards. The size designation for LT-metric
tires is the same as for P-metric tires except for the

M32A0100

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337

letters

9LT9 that are molded into the sidewall preceding

the size designation. Example: LT235/85R16.

• Temporary spare tires are high pressure compact

spares designed for temporary emergency use only.
Tires designed to this standard have the letter

9T9

molded into the sidewall preceding the size designa-
tion. Example: T145/80D18 103M.

Service Description
EXAMPLE: 95H

Load index

A numerical code associated with the maximum

load a tire can carry.

Speed symbol

A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which

a tire can carry a load corresponding to its load

index under certain operating conditions.

The maximum speed corresponding to the speed

symbol should only be achieved under specified

operating conditions. (i.e. tire pressure, vehicle

loading, road conditions and posted speed limits).

Maximum Load
Maximum load indicates the maximum load this tire is
designed to carry

Maximum Pressure
Maximum Pressure indicates the maximum permissible
cold tire inflation pressure for this tire.

Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire,
but the date code may only be on one side. Tires with
white sidewalls will have the full TIN including date
code located on the white sidewall side of the tire. Look
for the TIN on the outboard side of black sidewall tires as
mounted on the vehicle. If the TIN is not found on the
outboard side then you will find it on the inboard side of
the tire.

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MAINTENANCE

EXAMPLE : DOT MA L9 ABCD 1504

DOT

Department of Transportation

This symbol certifies that the tire is in compli-

ance with U.S. Department of Transportation tire

safety standards, and is approved for highway

use.

Code representing the tire manufacturing loca-

tion. (2 digits)

ABCD

Code representing the tire size. (2 digits)

Code used by tire manufacturer. (1 to 4 digits)

Number representing the week in which the tire

was manufactured. (2 digits)

Number representing the year in which the tire

was manufactured. (2 digits)

Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades

Traction
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled con-
ditions on a specified government test course. For ex-
ample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one half
(1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and

may depart significantly from the norm due to variations
in driving habits, service practices and differences in road
characteristics and climate.

Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B
and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on
wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions
on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and
concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor-
mance.

Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C,
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat
and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The
grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all
passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor

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Dodge Stratus Coupe (2005 year). Manual - part 21