2002 Dodge Atos

The 2002 Dodge Atos is a subcompact hatchback that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 1.0-liter three-cylinder that produced 68 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque. A 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine was also available, producing 78 horsepower and 80 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Atos was praised for its fuel efficiency and affordability, but it was criticized for its lack of power and its cramped interior.

Engine

1.0-liter Three-Cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

1.1-liter Four-Cylinder

• Timing belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud noise from the engine, loss of power, engine damage
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Shifter linkage failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace the shifter linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission fluid leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Repair the leak and replace the transmission fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting the engine, battery warning light on
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, dimming lights, battery warning light on
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuse box failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, electrical components not working
  • Solution: Replace the fuse box
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door lock failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty raising or lowering the windows
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat or air conditioning, blower motor not working
  • Solution: Repair or replace the HVAC system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Atos is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. However, most of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the Atos is a good choice for budget-minded shoppers who are looking for a fuel-efficient and affordable vehicle.