2003 Dodge Stratus Coupe
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Dodge › Stratus Coupe › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Dodge Stratus Coupe. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
16 complaints
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
Same dash warping problem as many others. I suspect this it IS more widespread than what you see here. I'm concerned that the warping could affect air bag deployment.
- Air bags · Structure › Body
The entire dashboard from driver's side to passenger side as well as from the front where it meets the windshield to where it wraps over and connects to entire panel facing the front seats IS warping and pulling away from everything it IS suppose to help hold into place. It IS now rising above the…
The entire dashboard from driver's side to passenger side as well as from the front where it meets the windshield to where it wraps over and connects to entire panel facing the front seats IS warping and pulling away from everything it IS suppose to help hold into place. It IS now rising above the passenger air bag compartment. If this air bag deploys it will definitely either throw the entire dashboard or massive pieces of it directly toward the passenger and driver (since the warping has dislodged it from everything) or it will deploy and the warped dashboard could cause the air bag to be thrown up toward the windshield, sun visor support & new tether strap which could cause even more issues. The warping has also started to affect every cover it connects to on the dash, pulling & pushing them loose. These items can now also be thrown throughout the vehicle in a crash. I have only owned my vehicle 6 months, the summer heat has not even arrived. At the rate it IS warping, I have no doubt it will probably be a minimum of 2 inches above air bag compartment within the next 3 months. Please help us stay safe and recall these dashboards before someone gets seriously injured. Accidents are bad enough, we need to prevent additional injuries and problems that these defective dashboards are obviously going to cause.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 dodge stratus coupe. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v338000 (air bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2003 dodge stratus coupe. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v338000 (air bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Structure
Same dash warping problem as many others have posted. not holding my breath for a replacement though. *tr
- Structure
I own a 2003 dodge stratus coupe in which the dashboard IS warping and coming a loose. I purchased this car used in 2008 in great condition, however after owning it for a few months the dashboard started pulling away from the speedometer, the air condition vents and other places on the board. Just…
I own a 2003 dodge stratus coupe in which the dashboard IS warping and coming a loose. I purchased this car used in 2008 in great condition, however after owning it for a few months the dashboard started pulling away from the speedometer, the air condition vents and other places on the board. Just recently, I have noticed that the problem continues to spread and now the glove department has started unhinge itself. This has become very unsettling because I am afraid that the airbag which IS only a few inches above the glove department will eventually deploy. I believe this IS a serious matter that must be addressed. I have researched and found out that several owners of car are facing the same problem. Not mention, I have also discovered that a white film appears on the interior of the window above the dash which causes a glare and a impairment when I drive. I have to constantly wipe and clean the inside window when I drive in order to see. This IS very dangerous especially when condensation builds up on the inside. And the condensation builds up because the dashboard has flipped up towards the windshield. I should not have to constantly wipe the inside of the windshield as if I'm a human wiper blade. *Tr
- Structure
I own a 2003 dodge stratus coupe(engineered by mitsubishi) and my clear coat has started to fade leaving white spots on the top of my car right behind the sunroof. It has also started to fade on the trunk of my vehicle as well. this issue only seems to ba happening to the cars manufactured with…
I own a 2003 dodge stratus coupe(engineered by mitsubishi) and my clear coat has started to fade leaving white spots on the top of my car right behind the sunroof. It has also started to fade on the trunk of my vehicle as well. this issue only seems to ba happening to the cars manufactured with black paint. Other cars I have seen with this problem also manufactured by mitsubishi are 1995-2000 chrysler sebring coupe, dodge avenger coupe, mitsubishi eclipse, mitsubishi galant. Also, 2001-2005 dodge stratus coupe, chrysler sebring coupe, mitsubishi eclipse and galant. The condition worsens over time and eventually start to go down the a,b and c pillar and hood of the car. again this IS only with the black paint. This a very common problem with the black paint on these cars and as the owner of one I would like something done about it. *tr
- Structure
Dash vinyl IS separating or peeling off at the defrost vent from the dash. No known way to fix it. Will need replaced with a better design. *Tr
- Structure
The dashboard material IS unstable. near the windshield defrost vents it has started to bend upwards along the vents edges. the passenger vent, next to the airbag, has also popped out a little due to stress from the dashboards. *Tr
- Structure
The dash board has warped and pieces are falling inside the dash. *tr
- Structure
I purchased a 2003 stratus new. shortly after purchase the paint started flaking off the top. the dealership repainted the top without complaint. the shop manager said they had alot of them with the same problem. 500 miles after the warranty expired the entire car started to loose the paint. I…
I purchased a 2003 stratus new. shortly after purchase the paint started flaking off the top. the dealership repainted the top without complaint. the shop manager said they had alot of them with the same problem. 500 miles after the warranty expired the entire car started to loose the paint. I returned to the dealership with the car and after being put off for five weeks was told the district manager said to bad they were not going to fix the car. I took the car to two different body shops, and both advised the primer was bad and they had seen alot of the 2003 dodges with the same problem. *tr
- Structure
I bought my 2003 dodge stratus r/t on june 9, 2006. After having it about two weeks the dash pad started to come undone from the dash. *Tr
- Electrical system · Unknown or other · Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system · Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
The dash in my car shortly after I bought it stated coming apart. it has completely separated from the defroster. in addition, all of the vent covers, ect. No longer are secure. the entire dash and components are in horrible condition.. I called the dealer and they said it was not covered in the…
The dash in my car shortly after I bought it stated coming apart. it has completely separated from the defroster. in addition, all of the vent covers, ect. No longer are secure. the entire dash and components are in horrible condition.. I called the dealer and they said it was not covered in the warranty which was bumper to bumper. in`addition my defroster IS horrible. when you have it in floor mode it blows on the windshield and it fogs up constantly. the electrical componets go crazy every once in a while, no power to the car ect. have to turn car on and off and few times and then it will be fine. one of my wipers came loose and I have to keep a wrench in my car at all time IS case I need to tighten it in the middle of a rain storm. it will fall right off and the metal will be dragging across my window. *jb
- Electrical system › Ignition › Module
I have a 2003 dodge status coupe that has two coils on the top of the spark plugs. I have had them replaced 3 times with a 4TH due soon. The problem starts with the engine misfireing some, then the service engine soon light comes on and I loose two cylendars. Sometimes the service engine soon light turns off for several days but then returns.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Equipment › Appliance › Air conditioner · Exterior lighting › Headlights · Suspension
There IS a loud popping noise coming from the driver's side wheel. the dealer has attampted to fix the problem atleast 4 times. the last time they tried they attempted to fix all four wheels, even though II only stated a noise from the drivers side wheel, now the rear wheel pops really loud over…
There IS a loud popping noise coming from the driver's side wheel. the dealer has attampted to fix the problem atleast 4 times. the last time they tried they attempted to fix all four wheels, even though II only stated a noise from the drivers side wheel, now the rear wheel pops really loud over pumps and in turns. I contacted the manufacture and so far they have not called me back. in addition to this, I have had to have the air conditioner fixed twice, a new radio put in, since the last time it was in there my emergency flashers dont work, when I first bought the car my head lights didnt work, and the valve cover gasket replaced because it was leaking oil. the valve cover gasket was fixed only for a few days before the same problem of a lack of horsepower returned. and last but not least everytime I drop my car off to the dealer, they keep it for 2-3 weeks at a time. one time they even put 200 miles on my car before they would return it.*ak
- Visibility › Glass, side/rear
I purchased a 2003 dodge stratus coupe. From date of purchase, the passenger window did not seal properly. I have taken the car in to be repaired 3 times by the dealer I purchased it from. However, after 3 times, they were unable to solve the problem. I had to take it to another dodge dealer, which…
I purchased a 2003 dodge stratus coupe. From date of purchase, the passenger window did not seal properly. I have taken the car in to be repaired 3 times by the dealer I purchased it from. However, after 3 times, they were unable to solve the problem. I had to take it to another dodge dealer, which required 2 more attempts to solve the problem, requiring a complete replacement of the window glass. Since then, I have had to take it back to get the window stops tightened or replaced.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist
When the brakes were applied, there was a "hissing" noise and the pedal became intermittently hard to press or went all the way to the floor. The dealer diagnosed and repaired a leaking brake booster, however a few days later the problem recurred. *jb
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10229256KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10229181Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
- 10223854Service - Four Piece Oil Pan Gasket All Cummins Equipped Vehicles ONLY - The replacement oil pan gasket can be a four piece gasket rather than a single piece gasket. This applies to Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines only. Installation: 1. Clean the oil pan T-joints.~ 2. Fill the T-joint between the pan rail/gear housing and pan rail/rear seal retainer with sealant. Use Mopar Silicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant or equivalent. 3. Apply a 2-mm [0.063-in] bead of Mopar Engine Sealant RTV Silicone Rubber Adhesive, to the oil pan flange.~ 4. The four piece gasket will need to be assembled to make a complete oil pan gasket. 5. Lay the oil pan gasket(s) onto the oil pan flange.~ 6. Ensure the oil pan gasket segment joints are properly aligned. 7. Apply a 2-mm [0.063-in] bead of Mopar Engine Sealant RTV Silicone Rubber Adhesive, to the top of the oil pan gasket.~ 8. Install the oil pan. Starting from the center and working outward, tighten the oil pan bolts to 28 Nm [21 ft. lbs.].
- 10223602Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
- 10221686KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10220995Part Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA. Insulator only used on Auto-RWD transmission Note: The color of the insulator is not relevant for service.
- 10220101Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10220099Use 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 parts.
- 10220097Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10191460Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
- 10175743Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
- 10175735Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
- 10169249Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10169247Use 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 parts.
- 10169245Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 1012900882212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio). Mopar offers an alternative product (82213192) which is a water based product approved for sale in the aforementioned states.~ ~ Please inform the customer & your prep dept that spraying excessive amounts of the fabric protector on load floors will result in the breaking down of the adhesive (glue) that is used to create the bond between the fabric (carpet) and the load floor. This will apply to any vehicles equipped with rear load floors such as WK, WD, PM, MK, KA, KK. The carpet will appear to be loose, wrinkly, or bunch up~
- 10013731Powertrain control module initialization.
- 10003525Door glass rub/screech/squeak sound.
- 10000446Accessory socket replacement for smokers package.
- 635723This bulletin provides information about ATF+4 usage.
- 634272Flash programming failure recovery. *Slc
- 634082Chrome wheel care. *Slc
Every Dodge Stratus Coupe model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.