CarComplaints.com Notes: The Dodge Stratus, Intrepid & 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. Also the 2.4L engine doesn't have the oil sludge problem.
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.
Alright I am sooo pissed! My mom bought this thing used but in great condition, and twice now when I have been driving it the thing locks up! Everything does! The wheel won't turn, the gear shift won't budge, and the key will not turn even slightly in either direction! She's pissed because she thinks it's my fault, when it's just the car that keeps crapping out! I have heard of other people having the same problems! If you have any advice, please help! At this moment, the crappy thing is over in my highschool parking lot waiting to get the crap beaten out of it! :(
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Alright I am sooo pissed! My mom bought this thing used but in great condition, and twice now when I have been driving it the thing locks up! Everything does! The wheel won't turn, the gear shift won't budge, and the key will not turn even slightly in either direction! She's pissed because she thinks it's my fault, when it's just the car that keeps crapping out! I have heard of other people having the same problems! If you have any advice, please help! At this moment, the crappy thing is over in my highschool parking lot waiting to get the crap beaten out of it! :(
- briannamichelle, Hermiston, OR, US