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.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Purchased 2000 Dodge Intrepid 2.7 engine with 72,300 miles
No recalls on Daimler Chrysler website for this problem.
Car soon leaking fluids, 2 pinon seals , 2 axle seals and converter seal
new trans filter, pan gasket, case sealer.
The mechanic removed trans and disassembled and resealed as needed and reinstall.
- nhwi, Kenosha, WI, US