These engines had a manufacturing defects with the head gaskets. Chrysler
knows it, because they had issued a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) to
their dealers about it. HOWEVER they are too damm cheap to fix it for their
consumers by way of a recall. I suggest youcall Chrysler headquarters and
complain LOUDLY and may be they will have their dealer fix it for no charge
or share the cost with you.

This is the problem with American cars! Poort quality compared to european
or Japanese.
"MP- Philly" > wrote in message
om...
> I have a 98 Dodge Stratus, with the 2.4 DOHC engine. It has about 73K
> miles on it. I've been told by the dealer that my head gasket is
> leaking. The estimate for repair is $700 - $1000. Is it worth fixing?
> At 73K miles, if I fix this, will there be any other big repairs
> waiting in the wings? Or should this be the last of it? Is it
> reasonable to expect to get another year out of this car?
>
> I don't understand how the head gasket can go, as the car has never
> over heated the entire 6 years I had her. And I've always kept up with
> recommended maintenance with the vehicle.
>
> On another note, I must admit that my experience with this Stratus
> precludes me from ever buying another Dodge vehicle. Has Chrysler
> cleaned up its act since Daimler bought them out? I'd like to still
> buy American, but if I have to buy an import I will.