2006 was the final production year for the mid-sized Dodge Stratus
. Available in SXT and R/T trims, you can expect to get the same average expectancy as most sedans—150,000 to 200,000 miles. You can expect a typical Dodge Stratus to last between 150,000–200,000 miles.
You can improve the life expectancy of your 2006 Dodge Stratus by performing regular maintenance, driving it fewer than 15,000 miles a year, and avoiding accidents.
Be mindful that this model is known to experience engine failure, oil leaks, and electrical issues.
How many miles can a 2006 Dodge Stratus last?
This is an older vehicle now, but most Dodge forum contributors say they can get between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles (the national average), this works out to 10 to 13 years with your Stratus.
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How long does a Dodge Stratus engine last?
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder Chrysler engine that’s standard on the Dodge Stratus typically lasts between 130,000 and 200,000 miles. The upgraded 2.7-liter six-cylinder engine is a bit more problematic. CarComplaints notes that this engine begins having trouble around the 75,000-mile mark, with drivers being told to replace the entire engine.
Can a Dodge Stratus last 500,000 miles?
It’s pretty unlikely that your Dodge Stratus, let alone any car, will reach 500,000 miles. It’s more likely that your car will reach 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
MORE: Are Dodges expensive to maintain?
Average life expectancy for a Dodge Stratus
Just because your car has the potential to reach 200,000 miles doesn’t mean it will hit that automatically. Here are a few factors that affect your car’s lifespan:
Regular maintenance: Cars that get frequent care, like scheduled oil changes and regular tire pressure checks, will last longer because you’ll catch problems early (and might even prevent them in the first place).
Mileage: Your Stratus might last longer than 13 years if you drive less than average. For instance, if you only put 5,000 miles on it yearly instead of 15,000 miles, you could get well over 13 years out of the sedan.
Accident history: Accidents are rough on cars, even if they’re not totaled because they put extra wear and tear on the parts. If your Stratus is accident-free, it stands a better chance of hitting 200,000 miles.
It goes without saying that if you’re shopping for a used Stratus, you should pay attention to how many miles the sedan already has on it. If the vehicle is pushing 175,000, it’s pretty close to the average life expectancy, so you might not get much use out of it. However, if the car has been meticulously maintained, it could be worth getting a mechanic to check it out.
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars 4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers How to extend a 2006 Dodge Stratus’s life expectancy
You probably already know what we’re going to say. The best way to get the most mileage out of your Dodge is to stick to the recommended maintenance schedule.
Your Stratus will benefit from regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake services, and more, regardless of how many miles it currently has on it.
Common 2006 Dodge Stratus problems to watch out for
Although the 2006 model isn’t as notorious as the 2002 model year, there are some issues you should be aware of. CarComplaints notes that 2006 Dodge Stratus drivers frequently deal with:
Engine failure and oil leaks: This is the most common problem with the Stratus. Oil sludge builds up in the engine and can cause the motor to seize up. Most drivers have to completely replace the engine, which costs anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000.
AC and heater problems: Drivers reported air conditioning and heating that was extreme or inoperative, along with a failed resistor and blower motor, which typically costs around $200 to repair.
Electrical problems: The interior lights and door locks can suddenly stop working. Other drivers note electrical issues that went undiagnosed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also received complaints about various electrical issues.
Poor safety ratings: The 2006 Dodge Stratus received “Poor” side crash test safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The sedan was also recalled three times for faulty suspension and brakes.
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