2003 Dodge SX 2.0

Introduction:

The 2003 Dodge SX 2.0 is a compact car powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 132 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The SX 2.0 is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling. However, it has also been reported to have several common issues.

Engine

• 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket. Symptoms include oil stains on the engine and a burning oil smell. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300.
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Coolant leaking from the intake manifold gasket. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and a rough idle. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400.
  • Timing belt tensioner failure: The timing belt tensioner can fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break. Symptoms include a loud noise from the engine, a loss of power, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700.
  • Crankshaft position sensor failure: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, causing the engine to stall or run poorly. Symptoms include a no-start condition, a check engine light, and a rough idle. Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200.

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • No issues found.
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip while shifting gears. Symptoms include a loss of power, a rough shifting, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000.
  • Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to shudder or slip. Symptoms include a loss of power, a grinding noise, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000.

Suspension

• Front struts leaking: The front struts can leak hydraulic fluid, causing a loss of ride quality and stability. Symptoms include a bouncing or rough ride, uneven tire wear, and a clunking noise. Solution: Replace the front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600.
• Rear shock absorbers leaking: The rear shock absorbers can leak hydraulic fluid, causing a loss of ride quality and stability. Symptoms include a bouncing or rough ride, uneven tire wear, and a clunking noise. Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400.

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery can drain quickly, even when the car is turned off. Symptoms include a dead battery, dim lights, and a slow start. Solution: Test the battery and electrical system to identify the source of the drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400.
• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge. Symptoms include a dead battery, dim lights, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500.
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a no-start condition, a clicking noise, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400.

Exterior

• Tail light leaking: Moisture can leak into the tail light assemblies. Symptoms include condensation inside the tail lights and a dim or flickering tail light. Solution: Replace the tail light assemblies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300.
• Door lock actuators failure: The door lock actuators can fail, causing the doors to become difficult to lock or unlock. Symptoms include a door that will not lock or unlock, a grinding noise, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400.

Interior

• Dashboard rattling: The dashboard can rattle or squeak over bumps. Symptoms include a rattling or squeaking noise from the dashboard. Solution: Inspect the dashboard and find the source of the rattle or squeak. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies.
• Seat belt retractor failure: The seat belt retractor can fail, causing the seat belt to not retract properly. Symptoms include a seat belt that will not fully retract or a seat belt that is stuck in the retracted position. Solution: Replace the seat belt retractor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200.

Summary:

The 2003 Dodge SX 2.0 has several common issues, including engine leaks, transmission problems, suspension issues, electrical problems, and interior rattles. The severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical failures. The cost to fix these issues can be significant, especially for major repairs such as transmission or engine work. While the SX 2.0 offers affordability and fuel efficiency, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues before purchasing one.