ABS problem: The owner sold the car because of this. The dealer could not correct ABS problem, even after replacing the ABS controller (this was done before I bought the car). The problem was with a broken tone ring (this is how the ABS senses how fast a wheel is turning). I had to replace the driveaxle--$80 w/lifteime warranty from local autoparts chain. The system believed the wheel had locked up because it couldn't 'see' the tone ring.
Transmission is quirky. It hasn't failed (yet). An older Chrysler mechanic gave me a long list of No-No's to follow: don't accelerate until you have been in drive for at least 3 seconds, don't stomp and release the gas (this confuses the transmission controller), make sure you keep the tranny fluid changed and use the correct fluid (ATF+3). This is true for all Chrysler car & minivan transmissions since about 1989 (knock offs of the A604).
Water pump is driven by timing belt... this is a roadside problem waiting to happen. I sure hope the pistons don't hit the valves when the belt breaks. (does anyone know?)
Brakes are squeaky. An application of brake quieting grease ($2) to the back of the pads every 3000 miles takes care of this, but this is far too often.
Headlight mounts have broken twice. These are expensive at the dealer, so I bought the first replacement from a salvage yard. I repaired them using fiberglass filler when they (the replacements) broke. I also improved the aim to better illuminate the road. So far so good.
The clear coat is peeling. The clear coat on the aluminum wheels is also peeling. The wheels corrode and have to be scrubbed regularly.
Steering is noisy. There is no free play to speak of yet, though.
I fell in love with the styling.
I have never had a problem I couldn't fix.
I love the power of the 3.5. Nice sound as well.
Too bad this car is not offered with a true manual transmission.
Handling is great for a full size car.
Climate control lighting is too dim, especially when you turn on the headlights (dash lights go dim). Even with the dimmer all the way up, the LEDs are invisible on a cloudy day w/headlights on.
Wiper performance is poor. I am still playing with the wiper arm springs to get them just right.
Headlights are dim and poorly aimed.
Car is very roomy.
Some crankiness is to be expected around 100k miles, but there are some fundamental design issues that need to disappear from future models before I get another Chrysler.
The Inner tie rod bushings on this vehicle are a cheap alternative to traditional (ball joint-like) tie rod ends--thank Chrysler for another cheap alternative to a well-established piece of automotive technology.
Rubber bushings worn out at 110k. More wear to left side than other, causing substantial toe problem when turning. Tires squeal in parking lot at low speed.
Aftermarket replacements are cheap ($10) but access is difficult. Chrysler dealer recommends over $500 in services "while you're in there" including ball joint, sway bar link, & outer tie rod end replacement. Besides inner bushings, no other component shows excessive, or even measurable wear, so I do not consider this necessary.
Beware of the Chrysler money maker machine that is the five-star service center. The car is a challenge for the do-it-yourselfer--it is built to deter such people, but it is serviceable. Get a good repair manual & be patient.
Oh yeah--get a case of beer to give to your buddy who will run you to the auto parts store several times while your Intrepid is on jack stands in pieces.
The 3.5L engine is a non-interference engine. This means it will not bend valves should you lose your timing belt. That's what the guys at dodgeintrepid. net say.
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