1996 Dodge Intrepid engine problems

Filed Oct 24, 2008 · Body, Engine · 148,689 miles · CA

Repeated overheating problems resulted in replacing my radiator two times, thermostat three times and thermostat w/ breather housing two times. Cooling system includes external metal pipes which help circulate coolant to heater. The pipes are hidden from clear view and when mine sprung leaks due to their placement the leaks were diagnosed as being blown head/head gasket by three separate shops. Replacement of pipes solved overheating. Moisture gets trapped in and around the frame and subframe areas where the motor and transmission mounts are located and allows for unnecessary premature deterioration of all the mounts, bushings, main frame and subframe. This hidden condition has resulted in all mounts needing replacement, transmission dropping, front inner&outer tie rods and bushings going out, rack n pinion problems and the subframe collapsing. Documented records show that from 2004 through 2008 on average I drove 7000 miles a year. In that 28000 miles I replaced all motor/transmission mounts, all 4 inner&outer tie rod bushings/ends twice, radiator twice, thermostat housing twice, coolant pipes once and have gone through two sets of tires. I am replacing subframe, transmission mounts and front axle again. I continue fixing the car because I cannot afford to replace it but I am getting very concerned about the steering, axle or brakes giving out while driving on the highway or in heavier traffic. So concerned my documentation has been given to family members in case of fatality resulting from the defects mentioned.

Filed Sep 13, 2007 · Engine · 86,000 miles · GA

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 dodge intrepid. While driving 35 MPH, the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle shut off. As of september 13, 2007, the dealer had not inspected the vehicle. The failure mileage was 86,000 and current mileage was 103,301.

Filed Apr 17, 2007 · Engine · NY · fire

I purchased this vehicle used from a reputable dealer. All repairs are well documented. Over the last 2 years there have been recurring problems with overheating that no one was able to diagnose. My husband went out to start the car after it had been sitting for approximately 12 hours and the engine burst into flames. Thank goodness there was a snow bank or our house would have been a loss as well. Through the internet I have discovered a recall for symptoms that we have experienced, without repair, but are listed in recall information. We are getting the run around about how to pursue repairing the vehicle under the recall provisions.

Filed Mar 9, 2007 · Electrical, Engine · 75,000 miles · GA

My 1996 dodge intrepid received a clean air waiver in the years 2003 and 2004. The obd could not be read by the emissions stations. For the past two years I have tried to rectify this problem without resolution. The clean air force says the software is updated and should be readable and dodge insists it's the caf software. There is a technical service bulletin (18-005-01) for 1996 dodge vehicles failing for readiness. I keep failing for readiness, and the dealer nor clean air has further information. I have been without my vehicle for two weeks while a master mechanic tries to solve my situation. The length of time tells me a favorable reply may not be forthcoming. I was told I can not sell the car, as the emissions issue will always be my (the owners) problem. I can not get a tag for this car and therefore legally can not drive it. What can I do?

Filed Dec 28, 2005 · Engine, Fuel system · 64,000 miles · SC

Dt*: the contact stated there was the federal safety agency recall campaign 98v184000 for the fuel system. The recall indicated the dealer would replace the fuel rail o-rings, and reinforce the outlet on passenger's side fuel rail. Also, it indicated that if the vehicle showed signs of fuel leakage on the outlet fuel rail the upper and lower injector o-rings would need to be replaced. The recall lead the contact to believe that the outlet fuel rail, the upper and lower injector o-rings would be replaced as part of the recall remedy if necessary. She was informed by both the dealer and manufacturer that this was not true. The recall remedy was completed according to the dealer and manufacturer guidelines. Additionally, the upper and lower injector o-rings were replaced. *ak the head gasket was replaced. Updated 01/25/06.

Filed Sep 22, 2005 · Brakes, Engine · 85,000 miles · MD

Purchased 1996 dodge intrepid in may 2005. Following week had to take car back to dealer re: brakes, to no avail. A mechanic stated brakes will need to be replaced. Was advised that tires were not in such great condition either. Kept hearing strange sounds (rattling noises) from the car. In august, smoke started coming from under the hood. Car would not steer at all. Had to take car to mechanic, who told us fan belt had come off while driving. Power steering pump had to be replaced and power steering line. He also advised that rack and pinion would need to be replaced. Finally, on august 26th, was getting in car to drive and did not get very far, when the car came to a sudden stop and made a loud noise. Got out of the car and found two bolts on the ground. Please help !!! Distressed. Do we have any recourse here? Have receipts, but do not have old parts. *jb *ak

Filed Sep 19, 2005 · Engine · 87,500 miles · NY

1996 dodge intrepid w/3.5 engine heard loud bang,smoke and oil,knocking noise. No warning at all, the gauges were in normal range, no prior trouble with engine. Had vehicle towed to goodyear tire store & upon inspection found two (2) holes in the right side of engine block near front of engine about the size of silver dollar,we think engine connecting rod for one cylinder failed and broke at bottom near crankshaft and punched both holes in block.

Filed May 20, 2005 · Body, Engine · 34,500 miles · OH

Consumer states: the engine cradle mount on the right side is rusted in the back, and the engine mount on the left is starting to rust in the back. Was making noise, got louder and louder, and couldn't see anything.

Filed Feb 25, 2005 · Engine · LA

The vehicle has 55000 miles. The engine blew consumer has the 2.7 liter engine in the vehicle. Consumer states that he has had the proper oil changes, and there was no warning upon the vehicle blowing. Please provide any further information.

Filed Jan 5, 2005 · Engine, Fuel system · DC

1996 dodge intrepid water pump was replaced twice.***no answer required***. *mr the fuel ijjectors leaked fuel onto the engine.