1996 Dodge Intrepid

Introduction

The 1996 Dodge Intrepid is a midsize sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.7-liter V6 that produced 162 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine was a 3.5-liter V6 that produced 214 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with a four-speed automatic transmission.

People who like the 1996 Dodge Intrepid praise its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful V6 engines. However, some people complain about the Intrepid’s poor fuel economy and outdated interior design.

Engine

2.7-liter V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating engine
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Four-speed automatic

• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn sway bar links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, loose steering
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaking struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from struts, rough ride, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights, flickering dashboard
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking sound when turning key
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose, door won’t open
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows don’t work, windows get stuck
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard develops cracks or breaks
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty gauges
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges don’t work or give inaccurate readings
  • Solution: Replace faulty gauges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Dodge Intrepid is a reliable and affordable midsize sedan. However, it is not without its problems. The most common issues reported by owners include intake manifold gasket failure, torque converter failure, and worn sway bar links. These issues can be costly to repair, but they are not typically severe enough to cause major problems.