Ltr fm jovan mathews (tx) re problems with his 1996 Dodge Stratus and asking daimler Chrysler to initiate a recall. The A/C leaked, electric circuits malfunctioned, transmission problems, premature brake wear, head gasket, and poor drive ability. The consumer had replaced the timing belt, hydraulic tensioner, water pump, alternator, alternator belt, rotors, brake shoes, rear wheel cylinders, PCV valve, dryer, A/C compressor, tires, all filters, and fluids. The vehicle was in need of an exhaust manifold, windshield, struts, shocks, steering wheel, and a head gasket. The vehicle experienced steering wheel oscillation/vibration above 50 mph, rough ride on road with irregular surface, erratic idle, performance loss, overheated, warm up sag, hesitation, rear grid defogger indicator malfunction, inside lights had become inoperative, late/harsh automatic transmission shifts, frequency rumble or gear noise from the front between 50 and 70 mph, musty odor, and the defroster failed to clear the glass.

- Houston, TX, USA

Consumer put vehicle in reverse to back in garage, heard a high pitched sound as engine started, backed vehicle in garage, and put in park. Then, wanted to pull vehicle forward. Consumer put foot on brake, took vehicle out of park, and it suddenly lurched forward/engine revved. Consumer pressed harder on brake pedal, then threw vehicle in park to stop it. Vehicle at dealer at this time, damage $ $1600.

- Upper Marlboro, MD, USA

While driving 60 mph with cruise controlon vehicle accelerated. Consumer tried to turn cruise control off, but would not turn off. Consumer applied brakes hard. Finally was able to slow vehicle down. Took out of gear, and engine was revving, shifted back and forth from drive to neutral to disengage cruise control, and was able to stop vehicle.

- Mansfield, OH, USA

While driving and had the foot off the gas pedal, the vehicle does not slow down, but it speeds up which may cause an accident. Been dealer, dealer cannot determine problem. Cause unknown.

- Cincinnati, OH, USA

Vehicle accelerated to full throttle and stuck there when passing gear is engaged at any speed. Driver applied brakes and shifted to neutral to regain control.

- Oak Park, IL, USA

Vehicle lurched forward from a stopped position, causing an accident.

- Wheaton, MD, USA