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.
Belts (alternator, PS, AC) cause a vibration racket between 900 and 1500 rpm. Can get rid of noise by having them tightened, but it will be back in a few thousand miles. Noise can be heard/felt inside car, can be heard outside car. I've had belts retensioned several times, have finally decided to just live with it since there appears to be no permanent cure. This is very common with 2nd generation Intrepids with 3.2 or 3.5 engine. Do a search at Dodgeintrepid.net if you're interested.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Belts (alternator, PS, AC) cause a vibration racket between 900 and 1500 rpm. Can get rid of noise by having them tightened, but it will be back in a few thousand miles. Noise can be heard/felt inside car, can be heard outside car. I've had belts retensioned several times, have finally decided to just live with it since there appears to be no permanent cure. This is very common with 2nd generation Intrepids with 3.2 or 3.5 engine. Do a search at Dodgeintrepid.net if you're interested.
- Duane H., Independence, MO, US