2004 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 196
2004 Dodge Stratus Manual
Page 196 highlights
196 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Drive Belts - Check Condition and Tension At the mileage shown in the maintenance schedules, check all drive belts for condition and proper tension. Improper belt tension can cause belt slippage and failure. Inspect the drive belts for evidence of cuts, cracks, or glazing and replace them if there is any sign of damage which could result in belt failure. If adjustment is required, adjust the belts according to the specifications and procedures shown in the Service Manual. Special tools are required to properly measure tension and to restore belt tension to factory specifications. Also, check belt routing to make sure there is no interference between the belts and other engine components. Spark Plugs Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine performance and emission control. New plugs should be installed at the specified mileage. The entire set should be replaced if there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark plug. Check the specifications section for the proper type of spark plug for use in your vehicle. Engine Air Cleaner Filter Under normal driving conditions, replace the air filter at the intervals shown on Schedule "A". If, however, you drive the vehicle frequently under dusty or severe conditions, the filter element should be inspected periodically and replaced if necessary at the intervals shown on Schedule "B". WARNING! The air cleaner can provide a measure of protection in the case of engine backfire. Do not remove the air cleaner unless such removal is necessary for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the engine compartment before starting the vehicle with the air cleaner removed. Failure to do so can result in serious personal injury. Engine Fuel Filter A plugged fuel filter can cause hard starting or limit the speed at which a vehicle can be driven. Should an excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the fuel tank, frequent filter replacement may be necessary.