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.
I have had problems since 6,000 miles. Rotors warped first time at 20,000. Replaced under warranty. Second time was
at 24,000 miles. Turned rotors at no cost to me. Third time
was a charm. Car had to be towed in because front brake caliper come loose and lodged in the wheel rim causing car to come to a slamming stop. Was not covered by extended warranty so I had to pay.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I have had problems since 6,000 miles. Rotors warped first time at 20,000. Replaced under warranty. Second time was
at 24,000 miles. Turned rotors at no cost to me. Third time
was a charm. Car had to be towed in because front brake caliper come loose and lodged in the wheel rim causing car to come to a slamming stop. Was not covered by extended warranty so I had to pay.
- Brenda M., Edmond, OK, US