1997 Dodge Avenger from North America - Comments

It had a number 2 cylinder misfire at 61,124 miles.

I do not know how other people take care of their cars, but I take good measures with mine. The reason I see a lot people complaining about their car is because they don't know how to take care of one. You cannot expect great performance when you treat your car like a race car. It does not come with the premium race parts you think it should have. Baby your car and you will have results and reliability. I have not had many problems with my car. Well, none have ever been serious. The only thing you must be on the watch for, especially if you don't know much about cars, is mechanics that want to milk you for your dollar. I only went to the Five Star Dodge dealership with my minor problems and check-ups while it was under warranty. I went in once when it was not, and found how much they lie, all the way to $3500.00 in repairs. It cost me $200.00 with my technician to replace a fuel injector. So do not take your car there, unless under warranty. Dealerships have higher prices and do not car for your car. They care about your money. I have my own technician, who I know will only fix what is broken. I urge you to find one of these rare people. Preventive maintenance is the best thing you can do. I am presently modifying my car, because I know mine will last a very long time. I love my car.

I agree that an avenger is a great car, but I don't agree with not taking your car to a dealership. Preventive maintence, which is what most dealerships really look for, is key to any car. If you fix the things that are about to break, before they break, it saves you money in the long run. And as far as changing a fuel injector, have you ever looked to see how hard it is to change one? You have to pull most of the top half of the motor apart inorder to get at it. Try changing spark plugs and wires once... it takes a long time and you still have to go further to get at the fuel injector. I hope you have good luck with your avenger because I know I have had it.