Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1997 Dodge Stratus
The 1997 Dodge Stratus has a substantial number of owner complaints, especially related to engine issues, and multiple recalls, notably in its suspension and power train. While some issues reflect aftermarket parts, prospective buyers should be cautious. Inspection should prioritize engine and suspension components, verifying recalls have been addressed. Data indicates potential concerns but is limited in some areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1997 Dodge Stratus has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 349 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #10E059000 REPLACEMENT CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E056000 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINTS/SEPARATION NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E088000 FUEL PUMP/ENGINE STALL CONDITION NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V021000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FLOOR SHIFT IGNITION-PARK INTERLOC NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #98V183000 CHRYSLER/IGNITION KEY SHIFT INTERLOCK NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #97V201000 CHRYSLER/LOWER CONTROL ARM NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #97V095000 CHRYSLER/SECONDARY HOOD LATCH NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 155 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 37 complaints
- Power Train 35 complaints
- Electrical System 31 complaints
- Air Bags 24 complaints
- Steering 20 complaints
Of the 349 complaints on file, 28 report a crash and 34 a fire; across all 349 complaints, owners report 23 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Cooling system failures
How to check: Inspect for signs of overheating or leaks under the hood.
Lower control arm issues
How to check: Check for unusual suspension noise or instability.
Shift linkage problems
How to check: Test key removal from ignition without parking.
Various electrical faults
How to check: Inspect all electrical components for errors.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for knocking or unusual noises.
Red flag: Loud engine knocking
- 02
First stop sign
What to check: Feel for brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Braking unresponsive or noisy
- 03
Steady cruising
What to check: Notice steering response and ease.
Red flag: Difficult or unresponsive steering
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth gear transitions.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 05
Braking from high speed
What to check: Check for vibration or pulling.
Red flag: Vehicle pulls to one side
- 06
Final idle
What to check: Watch for engine idle stability.
Red flag: Rough or fluctuating idle
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the suspension been serviced?
- Were any aftermarket parts replaced?
- Has the transmission linkage been checked?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
- How often was the car maintained?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Previous owner history
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1997 Dodge Stratus at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 1997 Dodge Stratus? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.