Faults:
Interior lights and headlights flickered within 2 months of purchase. Dealer could not find problem. Recently a mechanic found a wire that was rubbing behind the dash and re-wrapped it and now the lights do not flicker.
Oil light comes on whenever I use the brakes. The car is not low on oil. According to mechanic the sensor is broken.
Transmission had to be replaced at 92,000 miles.
Replaced 2 transmission computer chips. One before the transmission replacement, one after.
All 4 windows have stopped working at one time or another. Replaced all 4 motors.
Drivers window slips off track frequently.
The drivers seat has gotten stuck with the back reclined too far twice.
The fan for heat/air conditioning has stopped working altogether once. Replaced a resistor. Currently the fan only works on High.
Replaced battery recently. Why is the battery so extremely difficult to replace? Had to remove the front wheel and take off a panel in the wheel well to replace battery.
General Comments:
I bought the car brand new in 1999. I think the Intrepid is very comfortable to drive. I have driven it all over the U.S. with little or no trouble. The interior is very roomy and comfortable.
The troubles I have had with the lights, battery, seat and fan are what I consider problems with any car, although the battery is hard to replace.
I was very disappointed to have to replace the transmission at 92,000 miles. The computer chips that had to be replaced were frustrating and expensive because if the chips malfunction the car will not go out of 2nd gear.
Replacing the motors in all 4 windows seems a bit extreme.
Overall, I like the Intrepid. As a single woman who owns a car it has not given me many more problems than any other car I have owned in the past. For 6 1/2 years I have driven this car on long trips, around town, and in all weather. It has not impressed me any more than any other car I have owned. I drive my Intrepid because so far it is still cheaper to fix than buy a new car.
24th Jan 2006, 11:00
I totally agree with you, I finally was about to trade our 1999 Dodge Intrepid in, with very little trade in. We are now driving a 2005 KIA Sedona. It's amazing what the foreign car companies are giving on their warranties. 5 years, 50,000. (bumper to bumper) or 10 years, 100,000 (on all major components). Plus 5 years road side assistance. Tells me that they believe in their products.