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2000 Dodge Avenger

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2000 Dodge Avenger was a mid-size coupe offering a mix of affordability and sporty styling. Available engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L V6 engine producing 163 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, although the 2.0L engine could be found with a 5-speed manual in some instances. Owners generally liked the Avenger’s aggressive looks and comfortable ride, but common complaints centered around reliability issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, and the quality of interior components.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. This can lead to low oil levels, potential engine damage, and oil spots on the ground.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, often caused by a faulty thermostat, radiator issues, or a clogged cooling system. Can result in serious engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat, flush the cooling system, repair or replace the radiator, and check for leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail if not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to significant engine damage, including bent valves and damaged pistons.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles). If the belt breaks, the engine needs a complete rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (timing belt replacement); $1500 - $3000+ (engine rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.0L, oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Slipping/Erratic Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The automatic transmission is prone to slipping between gears, erratic shifting, and harsh engagement. This can be caused by worn clutch packs, a faulty valve body, or low transmission fluid.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush (may provide temporary relief), valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (fluid flush); $300 - $800 (valve body); $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at low speeds, is a symptom of torque converter failure.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per axle)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises when turning or going over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per side)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or switch.
    • Solution: Replace the window motor or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per window)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Check Engine Light Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminating for various reasons, ranging from minor issues like a loose gas cap to more serious problems like a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter.
    • Solution: Diagnose the underlying cause using an OBD-II scanner and address the specific issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure, such as wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Rust repair, involving sanding, patching, and painting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (per area)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and splitting of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover installation.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (cover); $500 - $1500+ (replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Panel Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Door panels coming loose, or fabric detaching.
    • Solution: Reattach door panels using clips, or replace them. Reglue any detached fabric.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200+ (reattach); $100-$400+ (replace)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Dodge Avenger, while stylish, suffers from a variety of reliability issues, particularly concerning its automatic transmission and engine oil leaks. Suspension wear and electrical problems are also common. Repair costs can range from minor fixes to more substantial engine or transmission work, potentially making it an expensive vehicle to maintain in the long run. The severity of the issues depends greatly on the specific configuration of the vehicle (2.0L vs. 2.5L) and how well it was maintained.

Dodge, Avenger
Dodge Avenger 2000
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