9.0
really awful- Typical Repair Cost:
- $3,700
- Average Mileage:
- 87,250 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 4 complaints
Most common solutions:
- new engine (2 reports)
- needed a new timing belt (1 reports)
- not sure (1 reports)
Well basically my car went "out if time 180 degrees". Not only that, I blew a head gasket, and I needed a new waterpump. I was supposed to pay over $1500.00 but I got lucky and found a mechanic who only charged me $600.00. I really don't even wanna talk about it anymore...
- Jennifer W., Lubbock, TX, US
I'm the mother of silverhawk_19. The 2004 Stratus is known for problems with the timing chain. The warranty company replaced the first engine with a used engine from a car that had been in an accident. This engine didn't last a year. We found out from another mechanic about a "secret warranty". I'm calling the 800 # I was given this week. Hope the warranty has not expired. I plan to take legal action regarding this. The warranty company did not act in good faith.
We have also replaced the water pump and a sensor. We have a service engine light coming on regarding another sensor. These engines, like their predecessors of previous years are junk. Buyers beware.
For those of you having problems with stalling, this the first symptom of a problem with the timing chain (this knowledge comes with experience). Get the chain looked at and serviced now. Once it breaks you need a new engine. If you purchased the warranty when you purchased your car and it is still in force, get the timing chain checked now. Ask for a new engine manufactured later then 2004, ask your mechanic to look into the secret warranty (Impartial Services Group) to get it fixed. Dodge knows this is a problem.
- Debra H., Caledonia, MI, US
The timing chain had shredded twice in 1 year. The stalling with the stratus is the timing chain I have had to replace it twice in one year. the first time the extended warranty covered it which amounted to $5,000. This time because it was not done right the first time will cost close to $7,000 but that is for the new engine with out the problems. what happens is that the engine runs hot and the pressure for the oil is low. It doesn't flow properly.
- silverhawk_19, Caledonia, MI, US
I paid 3,600 for this car last year at this same time so I've only had it for a year, it had 88,000 miles on it, and already my car is done. I have no money to fix it now I'm a single parent and I work and go to school full time. I guess I'll be taking the bus now with my 6 yr old son, being Minnesota has the " worst winters ever "
!!! I will never buy a car from dodge again !!!!!!!!
- katra, St.Paul, MN, US