CarComplaints.com Notes: The Dodge Intrepid, Stratus & other Chrysler sedans are infamous for oil sludge problems with the 2.7L V6 engine. If someone offers to sell you a 2.7L V6 model, it's only worth the price of the scrap metal it's going to shortly turn into.
NOTE: Only the 2.7L V6 has the oil sludge problem. Our "Avoid like the Plague" designation is ONLY for models with the 2.7L V6 engine. All other available engines are very reliable with no major problems.
Even with regular maintenance, the oil sludge defect eventually destroys the 2.7L engine typically around 80,000-100,000 miles. The only true fix we know about is to put in the larger 3.2L engine, which has a great reputation.
This issue was never deemed a safety defect by the Feds, so there was no recall. In the end, Chrysler got away with FOUR YEARS worth of defective 2.7L V6 engines in their sedans.
I am having problems with the brakes on my 2001 Dodge Intrepid. I reside in Wisconsin and at the beginning of Winter 2010 my brakes started acting up. When the problem started I would hear a hissing sound emitting from the brake pedal as if I had air shocks. When it is very cold outside; I'd say about 25 degrees or lower, the brakes will partially work or not work at all. Sometimes when I pressed down on the brakes it feels as if I was pressing down on a concrete surface. I've discovered that after I park my Intrepid in the garage or a warm place the brakes begin to work better. The brakes usually start acting up when the Intrepid is parked outside over a long period of time while I'm at work. Also, occasionally the brake lamps will remain illuminated and my cruise control wont work. Any help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I am having problems with the brakes on my 2001 Dodge Intrepid. I reside in Wisconsin and at the beginning of Winter 2010 my brakes started acting up. When the problem started I would hear a hissing sound emitting from the brake pedal as if I had air shocks. When it is very cold outside; I'd say about 25 degrees or lower, the brakes will partially work or not work at all. Sometimes when I pressed down on the brakes it feels as if I was pressing down on a concrete surface. I've discovered that after I park my Intrepid in the garage or a warm place the brakes begin to work better. The brakes usually start acting up when the Intrepid is parked outside over a long period of time while I'm at work. Also, occasionally the brake lamps will remain illuminated and my cruise control wont work. Any help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
- Adam M., Chippewa Falls, WI, US