1998 Dodge Intrepid Base model review from North America
"Not bad, a solid 7/10 overall"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Power window motors went at 180000 KM.
Power steering belt fell off at 190000 KM.
One of the lights in the dash does not work.
Vanity mirrors cracked on both sides.
Car starting to have bubble rust on hood
(very minor)
Brake light sensor under the pedal sometimes lets the brake lights stay on all night which makes the battery dead in the morning. Started at 194000 KM.
Occasionally the car blows smoke when taking off. (moderate acceleration)
Other than what is listed above this is a half decent car.
Oh right, another thing I have changed the oil every 5,000 KM since it was new.
General comments?
First I have to say that the 2.7L engine
is not as bad as people say it is.
The only reason why I would not buy another car from this manufacturer is because I like Rear wheel drive cars better.
I have over 200,000 KM on the original
engine and I have had not many problems with it, really none to speak of. And it is 9 years old now.
However, it does lack in power in some areas like passing and things like that.
And since it has 4 cams or DOHC it hardly makes any power until 3 grand
(3,000 RPM)
The front seats need more lumbar support on long drives.
The back seat is angled back too far making it not pleasant for taller people.
But even to this day it is a very smooth
operator at all speeds never shakes, rattles or anything.
The local dealership where I bought the car, needs improvement in the service department.
Some people might say I'm making rubbish look like gold.
But believe me it may not be a perfect car, but I'd say IF you change the oil like I have, YOU will NOT have problems with the 2.7 Litre engine.
Thank-You for reading my review.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | It's a money funnel- buy at own risk |
![]() ![]() | Dodge should make go-carts, they haven't a clue how to build a car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.7L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 27000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 205000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Oldsmobile LSS |
| Date of Entry | 10th January, 2006 |

