1. Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and let the engine cool completely. Power steering fluid is under pressure when the engine is running and is harmful to skin and eyes.
2. Gather Supplies: You'll need a container to catch the power steering fluid (at least a quart capacity), rags or shop towels, a wrench (likely a socket wrench and extensions depending on the reservoir's fasteners), and possibly a funnel for refilling later.
3. Drain the Fluid: Locate the power steering reservoir. It's typically a plastic bottle near the front of the engine compartment. Carefully loosen the cap and using your container, drain as much fluid as possible. Don't force it. If there's a drain hose attached, detach it first.
4. Disconnect Lines and Electrical Connections (If Applicable): Some Stratus models might have pressure lines or even an electrical sensor attached to the reservoir. If so, carefully disconnect these. Take pictures before you disconnect anything to help with reassembly. Be prepared for some fluid leakage during this step.
5. Remove Reservoir Mounting Bolts/Clips: The reservoir is usually held in place by a few bolts or clips. Use the appropriate wrench to carefully remove these fasteners. Note their position and order for reassembly.
6. Remove the Reservoir: Gently lift the reservoir out of its mounting location. Be aware that there might be some remaining fluid in the reservoir, so keep your container handy.
7. Clean the Area: Clean up any spilled fluid with rags or shop towels.
Reinstallation:
The reinstallation process is the reverse of removal. Ensure all connections are secure and the reservoir is properly mounted. Refill with the correct type and amount of power steering fluid (check your owner's manual). Consult your owner's manual or a professional for the correct procedure to bleed the system after refilling.
Important Considerations:
* Type of Fluid: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage your power steering system.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1998 Dodge Stratus is strongly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial information that could be missed in this general overview.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working on your vehicle, take it to a qualified mechanic. Improperly handling power steering fluid or damaging components can lead to expensive repairs.
Remember, this is a general guide. Your specific model may differ slightly. Always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's repair manual before undertaking any automotive repair.
