1999 Dodge Intrepid review from North America

Transmission hydraulic hoses had to be replaced because they were weeping fluid through the rubber.

Driver's side electric window control panel and driver's side window motor failed. Both items were replaced.

Headlight lenses discolored, reducing effectiveness of headlights.

Rotors warp easily and must be turned more frequently than expected.

Speed Sensor on transmission failed was replaced.

Oil pressure sensor switch failed and leaked oil. Sensor was replaced with Dodge modified kit.

Passenger side electric window motor failed.

Engine failed at 103,000 miles. Mechanic thinks it has "spun" a bearing. A loud, metal on metal, knock comes from the engine and it blows blue smoke from the exhaust pipe.

During the five years and 85,000 miles that I have owned and driven my 1999 Intrepid car I have I have enjoyed it's looks and comfort when it was not in the shop.

I became concerned about the quality of the car's engineering and manufacturing as time went on. The transmission hoses supported that concern when I was told that the hose's material of construction was incompatible with the transmission fluid. The dealer's mechanic passed it off as a "no big deal" issue. He stated that it only happened to some of the cars. It should have turned on a warning light for me, but I liked the car. When I talked with the dealer about the headlight lenses they inferred that somehow I was responsible for them fogging. The dealer would be happy to sell me headlight assemblies for an exorbitant amount of money; they would even install them for an additional fee! So much for a "Five Star" dealer! The problems with the rotors, the speed sensor, the oil pressure switch and the windows only highlight the poor quality of Daimler Chrysler engineering and manufacturing. I should have sold the car, but it was paid for and I liked having a good looking car and no car payments. During the entire time I drove the car (it is parked while I try to salvage some value from it) I maintained the car hoping to get an extended life out of. My efforts were in vain! As I was accelerating onto the interstate a couple of weeks ago I experienced a sudden loss of power, the engine was blown at 103,000 miles! From what I have learned since then, I am lucky to have run that engine for as long as I have. The salvage yard owners, mechanics and re-manufactured engine suppliers all sing the same song; the Dodge 2.7L engine is one of the worst engines ever manufactured. To all persons who are in the market for a vehicle, stay away from Daimler Chrysler products!

The 1999 Intrepid is a good looking and comfortable car, but there are fatal flaws in it's engineering and manufacturing.