2001 Chrysler Intrepid

The 2001 Chrysler Intrepid was a full-size, front-wheel-drive sedan known for its spacious interior and distinctive styling. Available engine options included a 2.7L V6, a 3.2L V6, and a 3.5L V6. The 3.5L V6 engine produces around 242 horsepower and 234 lb-ft of torque. It was offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Intrepid for its roomy cabin, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price. Dislikes often centered around its reliability issues and somewhat lackluster fuel economy.

Engine

2.7L V6

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil sludge formation in the engine, leading to oil starvation, potential engine knocking, and ultimately engine failure. This is exacerbated by infrequent oil changes or use of incorrect oil.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil. Some may try engine flushing, but it’s not always effective. In severe cases, engine replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump, often driven by the timing chain, is prone to failure. Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and timing chain as a preventative measure as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

No Issues Found

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gaskets, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift. Often caused by a failing transmission solenoid pack or worn clutch packs.
  • Solution: Replacing the solenoid pack, rebuilding the transmission, or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (solenoid pack), $1,500 - $3,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncing, excessive body roll, and poor handling. Leaking fluid from the struts/shocks is a visual indicator.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 (for all 4)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tie Rod End Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, and clunking noises from the front end.
  • Solution: Replace worn tie rod ends and perform a wheel alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to go up or down, or moves slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Remove the rust and paint the affected areas, or replace the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner detaches from the roof and sags down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, with hot air blowing on one side and cold on the other, or a clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400

Summary

The 2001 Chrysler Intrepid can be a comfortable and spacious sedan, but it’s plagued by a number of reliability issues. The most significant concern is the potential for engine sludge, particularly in the 2.7L V6. Transmission problems and electrical gremlins are also common. Repair costs can range from relatively minor to very expensive, depending on the specific issue. Due to the age of these vehicles, finding well-maintained examples is crucial, and a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.