CarComplaints.com Notes: The Dodge Stratus, Intrepid & other Chrysler sedans are infamous for oil sludge problems with the 2.7L V6 engine. If someone offers to sell you a 2.7L V6 model, it's only worth the price of the scrap metal it's going to shortly turn into.

NOTE: Only the 2.7L V6 has the oil sludge problem. Our "Avoid like the Plague" designation is ONLY for models with the 2.7L V6 engine. All other available engines are very reliable with no major problems.

Even with regular maintenance, the oil sludge defect eventually destroys the 2.7L engine typically around 80,000-100,000 miles. The only true fix we know about is to put in the larger 3.2L engine, which has a great reputation. Also the 2.4L engine doesn't have the oil sludge problem.

This issue was never deemed a safety defect by the Feds, so there was no recall. In the end, Chrysler got away with FOUR YEARS worth of defective 2.7L V6 engines in their sedans.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2002 Stratus 2-DR****************not tested
2002 Stratus 4-DR****************not tested
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2002 Dodge Stratus 4-door sedan

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSide1RearRollover
A Overall
A Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
G Left Leg Injury
M Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. P Overall
P Structure
Driver
P Head Protection
A Head/Neck Injury
P Torso Injury
P Pelvis/Legs Injury
Rear Passenger
M Head Protection
G Head/Neck Injury
A Torso Injury
G Pelvis/Legs Injury
Full IIHS Side Impact Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested.

1 — Without optional side airbags.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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