2000 Chrysler Intrepid

2000 Chrysler Intrepid

Overview

The 2000 Chrysler Intrepid, part of the second generation of the LH platform, offered a blend of spaciousness and comfort, aiming for the mid-size sedan market. It featured a distinctive cab-forward design and a range of V6 engine options. While generally considered a comfortable cruiser, like many vehicles of its era, it has specific areas that have shown a propensity for issues over time. Owners often report on the performance and longevity of its powertrain, as well as the electrical systems and interior wear. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical faults that go beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair needs for this model.

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Engine

2.7L V6 (EER)

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and associated seals. May require cylinder head machining.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,500

Oil Sludge Buildup

• Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased oil consumption, potential for bearing damage.
• Solution: Frequent oil changes with high-quality oil, engine flush procedures, and potentially engine overhaul if severe.
• Cost: $100 - $500 (for flushes/maintenance), $2,000+ (for overhaul)

3.2L V6 (EHB)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

3.5L V6 (EGW)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

42LE Automatic Transmission

Slipping Gears / Delayed Shifting

• Symptoms: Transmission hesitates to shift, slips out of gear, or feels rough during shifts.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $800 (fluid/filter/solenoid), $1,500 - $3,000 (rebuild)

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, or failure to engage.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $700 - $1,500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Premature Strut/Shock Wear

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible leaks from struts/shocks.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Power windows, locks, interior lights, or dashboard indicators malfunctioning intermittently.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Instrument Cluster

Gauge Malfunctions / Dead Pixels

• Symptoms: Tachometer, speedometer, or fuel gauge not working, or display issues on the odometer.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels and Paint

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Paint fading or peeling, especially on horizontal surfaces like the roof and hood.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas or the entire vehicle.
• Cost: $500 - $3,000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding / Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy appearance.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $200 (restoration), $200 - $500 (replacement)

Interior

Seat Upholstery

Tearing and Wear

• Symptoms: Fabric or leather seats showing signs of wear, tears, or cracking, especially on bolsters and seams.
• Solution: Seat cover installation or professional upholstery repair/replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $500 (covers), $500 - $1,500 (repair/replacement)

HVAC Blower Motor

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent fan speed operation.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

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Summary Verdict

The 2000 Chrysler Intrepid presents a mixed reliability profile. The 2.7L V6 engine is a notable weak point, prone to head gasket failures and oil sludge issues, necessitating careful maintenance and potentially costly repairs. The 42LE automatic transmission can also develop problems like slipping gears or torque converter issues. Beyond the powertrain, common concerns include worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, struts), electrical gremlins often stemming from the BCM or instrument cluster, and typical exterior wear like clear coat peeling. Interior components like seat upholstery and the HVAC blower motor are also areas where owners may face repairs. While the 3.2L and 3.5L V6 engines are generally more robust, potential buyers should be aware of these common failure points and factor in potential maintenance costs.