1997 Dodge Intrepid

Introduction

The 1997 Dodge Intrepid is a mid-size sedan known for its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. It is available with three engine options: a 2.7L V6, a 3.2L V6, and a 3.5L V6. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic transmission for the 2.7L V6 and a 3-speed automatic transmission for the 3.2L and 3.5L V6s. Owners praise the Intrepid for its spaciousness, performance, and comfort, but common complaints include poor fuel economy, transmission problems, and electrical issues.

Engine

2.7L V6

• Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings or overhaul the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken timing belt, resulting in severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (2.7L V6)

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, vibration, difficulty accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

3-Speed Automatic Transmission (3.2L and 3.5L V6s)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, reduced suspension performance.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises while turning or cornering.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, battery not charging.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not functioning properly, difficulty rolling them up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on or blinking, dimmer switch not functioning properly.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced airflow or complete loss of airflow from the HVAC system.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cruise Control Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not functioning properly, difficulty setting or canceling.
  • Solution: Replace the cruise control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Dodge Intrepid is a reliable and comfortable mid-size sedan with some potential issues in certain areas. While the engine options are generally reliable, the 2.7L V6 can experience issues with oil consumption and intake manifold gasket failure. The 4-speed automatic transmission used with the 2.7L V6 is also known to have problems with slipping and torque converter failure. Other less severe issues such as strut mount failure, sway bar link failure, and electrical problems have also been reported. Overall, the cost of repairs can range from minor to expensive, depending on the severity of the issue.