1997 Dodge Intrepid review from North America

1.) Have had constant cooling issues. Replaced the thermostat the first time, I also needed to replace the radiator for a leaking drain valve, (which will also cause an air pocket and cause to overheat). I am getting ready to replace the head gasket, and in the process will probably do the water pump, and timing belt just to be on the safe side.

2.) Replaced the o-rings in fuel rails, paid $200.00 and then found out it was a recall.

3.) Headlight knob fell off in my hand. Took car in for PA. inspection and when I got it back it was fixed.

4.) Leaking power steering pump.

5.) Transmission does not always shift the same. That worries me, how long till I need to replace that?

6.) Headlight lenses are cloudy, and can't adjust because adjustments are broken. (I'll deal with it)

7.) Black plastic molding flaking off.

8.) Clear coat flaking off of rear quarter panels.

When first shopping around for a family vehicle I thought I was doing OK, snappy motor with lots of power. Plenty of room for someone six feet tall, and still room in the backseat for family. After the first overheating problem, and smelling fuel running over a hot exhaust manifold I started having second thoughts. The car is great on the highway, with good gas mileage for its size, but its just not reliable. I do most of my own mechanic work, and its NOT a nice car to work on. I know that Ford can't keep the same part, or even model of vehicle for more than a year without changing them, but I had less hassle, and better reliability. Maybe I'll buy a Le Car, do they still exist. Anything has got to be better than the Intrepid.