1997 Dodge Stratus Body and structure Problems
- Complaints
- 9about this part
- Share
- 3%of 349 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 128,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 9 complaints about the body and structure of the 1997 Dodge Stratus, 3% of the 349 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 128,000 miles. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“The contact stated while changing the oil the hinge for the hood seemed loose. There is NHTSA recall # 97v095000 regarding the secondary hood latch spring. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however, it is not included in the recall due to the VIN.”
NHTSA complaint #10154179, filed 2006-03, 128,000 miles“The moving steering shaft between the steering wheel and floor of the passenger compartment is exposed. A clamp on the steering shaft caught the floor mat and made it almost impossible to steer the car. I talked to the dealer and was told all Stratus are made this way. The steering shaft needs a shield. If chrysler doesn't fix this, I may sell the car. I have had numerous other problems, including timing belts/iginition key/ head rests/body, electric mirrors,etc.. This may be the last straw. I am a mechanical engineer with 20 years experience and I have worked on cars since grade school. …”
NHTSA complaint #703376, filed 1999-02“Driver's side seat is broken. Part of the seat where consumer's hip goes up a metal piece sticks out. Consumer feels frame may break completely, and family may be injured. Left front seat has been broken for almost two years. Left door hinge broke too. Front brake calipers and rotors failed.”
NHTSA complaint #868231, filed 2000-08Related recalls
- 97V095000Jun 6, 1997Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The secondary hood latch spring can disengage from its retention hole if the hood is slammed shut.Covers: Dodge Stratus 1996–1997, Chrysler Cirrus 1996–1997, Plymouth Breeze 1996–1997
Related service bulletins
- 10220101Nov 20, 2019Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10220099Nov 20, 2019Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage…
- 10220097Nov 20, 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10169249Nov 20, 2019Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10169245Nov 20, 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
Body and structure: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 4 | 5% |
| 2005 | 3 | 5% |
| 2004 | 9 | 6% |
| 2003 | 6 | 8% |
| 2002 | 7 | 5% |
| 2001 | 9 | 5% |
| 2000 | 6 | 3% |
| 1999 | 4 | 2% |
| 1998 | 2 | 1% |
| 1997 | 9 | 3% |
| 1996 | 13 | 2% |
| 1995 | 8 | 3% |
Other parts of the 1997 Dodge Stratus
158 complaintsBrakes
44 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
36 complaintsElectrical system
31 complaintsAir bags
24 complaintsSteering
21 complaintsSuspension
19 complaintsVehicle speed control
18 complaintsOther or unknown
16 complaintsFuel system
11 complaintsExterior lighting
6 complaintsSeat belts
6 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Dodge Stratus
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology