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.
Rear strut mounts on vehicle failed resulting in separation of the strut from mount of the car. Smelled smoke coming from back tire, to find out that the strut rubbing on the tire and caused the tire to pop. Strut mount turned into a fine magnesium powder. Had to replace struts and mounts on both sides, paying 1,000 dollars. Could result in accident.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Rear strut mounts on vehicle failed resulting in separation of the strut from mount of the car. Smelled smoke coming from back tire, to find out that the strut rubbing on the tire and caused the tire to pop. Strut mount turned into a fine magnesium powder. Had to replace struts and mounts on both sides, paying 1,000 dollars. Could result in accident.
- Travis P., Sterling Heights, MI, US