2002 Chrysler Intrepid

The 2002 Chrysler Intrepid was a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior and distinctive styling. It offered three engine options: a 2.7L V6 (200 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque), a 3.2L V6 (225 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.5L V6 (242 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the Intrepid’s comfortable ride and roomy cabin but often cited reliability issues as a major drawback.

Engine

2.7L V6

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: This engine is prone to sludge buildup, especially if oil changes are not performed regularly. Symptoms include engine knocking, oil light illumination, and potential engine failure.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality oil and potentially engine flush treatments. If the damage is extensive, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity and repair strategy, engine replacement may be $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail prematurely, leading to overheating. Symptoms include temperature gauge rising, steam coming from the engine bay, and coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Water pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

• No Issues Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Note: All engine options are paired with the same 4-speed automatic transmission (42LE). Therefore, common transmission issues apply regardless of engine choice.

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, especially when cold. Can also cause harsh or delayed shifting.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, repair of valve body, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for fluid flush, $500+ for valve body repair, $1,500 - $3,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering on the road, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Control arm replacement or bushing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Power window motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Timer Module (CTM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent issues with interior lighting, door locks, remote keyless entry, and alarm system.
  • Solution: CTM replacement or reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can appear on the lower body panels, wheel wells, and around the windshield.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and sags down.
  • Solution: Headliner replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Chrysler Intrepid, while offering a comfortable and spacious ride, suffers from several reliability issues. The 2.7L engine is particularly prone to sludge buildup, which can lead to costly repairs or engine replacement. Transmission issues, such as slipping and torque converter failure, are also common across all engine options. Suspension and electrical problems further contribute to the ownership experience. The cost to address these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work.