25 problems related to engine head gasket failure have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Stratus. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Head gasket failed at 31,000 miles on 1997 Dodge Stratus.
Head gasket failed at approx. 72,000 miles. It seems like this is a common problem in Dodge Stratus and Dodge neon based on all the complaints I have read on the internet. I would like Dodge/Chrysler to take some responsibility for the problem, as I was told they are aware a problem exists and have since change the style of gasket used.
Head gasket failed at 58k miles, caused oil leak,like so many other 1997 Dodge Stratus with four cylinder engine, 2. 4l.
Head gasket failed.
I have had two head gaskets replaced in a 6000 mile span I am mad.
My first head gasket was replaced 03/26/1998. Here it is three years later and it goes again? a call was placed to Chrysler on 02/28/2001, and they even stated that the head gaskets are bad and a new one should do the trick. Why should I have to pay for a second head gasket, when the very first one should have lasted the life of the car. This is absolutely ridiculous. Today, I am sending a registered letter to Chrysler as well.
Coolant was getting into oil. Vehicle taken to an independent shop, and informed consumer that 2. 4l engine had a head gasket failure. Manufacturer was not notified at this time. Feel free to provide any further details on this matter.
Headgasket failed, Dodge dealer informed consumer this is a known problem.
Head gasket failure - severe oil leak.
Apparantly all Dodge Stratus head gaskets are failing and it is not covered under the warranty. I guess Dodge will sell you a cheap car and make up the difference by charging you a fortune to fix their mistakes.
Head gasket replaced at 65k miles. Chrysler paid for part.
Power steering went out (65 mph on curve hose came off, head gasket replaced, steering gear replaced, new rack was installed, replaced up-strem oxgen sensor, power steering leak, dealer could not find leak.
The head gasket has been replaced twice.
Head gasket failed 3 times, consume believes this is excessive and is seeking reimbursement. Nlm.
Premature head gasket failure and ongoing body idle vibration.
Vehicle experienced head gasket failure for the second time within 17,000 miles of first replacement. Dealer notified, and informed consumer vehicle was out of warranty and not under a manufacturer's recall.
Consumer purchased car used and engine head gasket was replaced at 44,000 miles. Now at 61,000 miles it has blown out again. Dealer isn't going to replace it, but manufacturer wants the consumer to get the car to dealer, and they have a representative to look at it.
Had two mechanics look at the engine, and both said that this is a common problem with this car. Then we took it to the dealer and they said our warranty is up and thers nothing they can do. They did offer us trade in. How ironic? upon looking at your complaints database I can see that I'm not the only one with a head gasket failure. Why can't something be done about this, I'll never, never buy another damn Dodge again.
Engine head gasket has failed, causing engine to be replaced ($5200), as per dealer service center in redlands, CA.
Valve cover gasket failure caused oil to leak. Yh.
Head gasket failed, causing severe oil leak. This appears to be a common problem with this engine due to a design or manufacturing defect.
'head gasket' - we bought a new 1997 Dodge Stratus in March of 1997. At 20,718 miles the head gasket failed badly. It took several weeks to get it fixed (under warranty) while the part was redesigned. The head gasket was fine until 72,000 miles - at that point it failed again. I do not feel I should have to pay for an obvious design defect. I know the problem is widespread and the part has been redesigned several times. 'headrests' - on our 1997 Dodge Stratus the adjustable headrests have broken - the padded headrest breaks free from the metal posts holding it to the chair. We had the passenger headrest replaced - it is now broken again as well as the driver's side. They break from the pressure of adjusting the height of the headrest. This seems unsafe to me - they break quite easily.
Headgasket failure and Chrysler will not commit to repair and wants to charge me for a diagnostic check of $100.
The head gasket failed resulting in oil leakage, the oil indicator never worked properly.
Several owners of the neon and Stratus cars have been showing up with head gasket failures which are not an inexpensive repair. Between the oil leaks, overheating and worries, I am wondering who to contact to see if Chrysler failed to build the motor with the consumer in mind.