1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Cargo room
- Steering/handling
- Passenger room
- Ride
Cons
- Trunk liftover
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Sharing mechanical and interior design with Chrysler's Concorde, the restyled Intrepid shared no body panels with its more costly cousin. Like the Concorde, Dodge's front-drive full-size model was dramatically redesigned for 1998, with an especially striking front end and a substantially revised chassis. No Eagle counterpart appeared, because Chrysler discontinued that make after the 1998 model year. Base engine was a 2.7-liter V6, making 200 horsepower. A stronger and larger 3.2-liter V6, producing 225 horsepower, went into the sportier ES edition. That model also gained Chrysler's Autostick transmission, which could be shifted manually. Base Intrepids used an ordinary 4-speed automatic transmission. Both engines had aluminum blocks and cylinder heads. Front bucket seats and a floor-mounted gearshift lever were standard. A front bench seat and column shift could be installed instead in the base model, increasing seating capacity to six. Antilock braking was standard on the ES, optional on base models. All Intrepids had dual front airbags. Rivals included the Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Eighty Eight and LSS, Pontiac Bonneville, and Toyota Avalon.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Dodge Intrepid ES w/3.2-liter V6 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 62 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Dodge Intrepid:
Changes were minor in the restyled Intrepid's second season. Remote keyless entry now was available on base models. Seat materials were new this year. Chrysler's Sentry Key, which disabled the ignition unless the proper key was used, was added to the optional theft-deterrent system.
2000 Dodge Intrepid:
A performance-driven R/T model with a 3.5-liter engine joined the lineup during 2000, featuring unique trim, standard antilock brakes, and 17-inch wheels. Changes to the regular models were few. The base model switched from 15-inch to 16-inch tires and added a power sunroof to its options list. Antilock brakes no longer were standard on the ES edition, but an option, as on the base Intrepid. Both models now had the 2.7-liter V6 as base engine, with the 3.2-liter V6 an option for the ES only.
2001 Dodge Intrepid:
New for 2001 were optional front side airbags, 3-point safety belts for the rear-middle seat position, and, optional on SE and R/T models, split/fold rear seat (formerly only standard on ES).
2002 Dodge Intrepid:
17-inch wheels became available in chrome mid-2002. There were no other significant changes for this model year.
2003 Dodge Intrepid:
Building on ES models, a new SXT version inherited from the discontinued R/T a high-output 3.5 V6, now at 250 hp.
2004 Dodge Intrepid:
Intrepid saw no major changes in 2004.
Our road test for the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The Intrepid's suspension is firm and stable at highway speeds, without growing harsh on rough pavement. Suspensions of the two models are tuned identically, but the wider tires on the ES provide slightly sharper feel in directional changes. Brakes provide short, straight stops from high speeds, with fine pedal modulation. Although the 2.7-liter engine moves this full-size sedan with adequate swiftness, acceleration is hardly neck-snapping. Though it's no powerhouse, the stronger 3.2-liter V6 can chirp the tires during rapid takeoffs, and delivers a quicker burst of power for passing and merging. Autostick helps the ES scoot through traffic, and produce more confident passing and merging. Both engines are smooth and quiet, and road noise is less noticeable than in earlier Intrepids. Wind noise is noticeable but not excessive. As for economy, a test ES averaged 20.7 mpg. Head room is generous in front, though the Intrepid's sloping roofline puts the heads of taller back-seaters right up to the headliner. Leg space is sufficient for 6-footers to be comfortable in all seats. Most gauges and controls, including those for the climate system, are easy to see and reach. Radio controls are more difficult to reach, and demand some study to decipher. Intrepid has a much larger rear window than the Concorde, allowing the driver to see the trunk for parking and enjoy a better view of surrounding traffic. A high rear parcel shelf does impair visibility, however. Cargo space is ample, and split folding rear seats increases that total capacity.
Value for the Money
When first seen as 1998 models, both the Intrepid and the Chrysler Concorde made other full-size automobiles look--and feel--dated. Roomy, athletic, and eye-catching, handling much like European sport sedans, Intrepids also offer plenty of interior space. Long-term mechanical reliability is still a question mark, but these stylish sedans can be good value, whether new or used. Best to stick with 3.2- or 3.5-liter V6 as the 2.7 is know to be troublesome.
When first seen as 1998 models, both the Intrepid and the Chrysler Concorde made other full-size automobiles look--and feel--dated. Roomy, athletic, and eye-catching, handling much like European sport sedans, Intrepids also offer plenty of interior space. Long-term mechanical reliability is still a question mark, but these stylish sedans can be good value, whether new or used. Best to stick with 3.2- or 3.5-liter V6 as the 2.7 is know to be troublesome.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Dodge Intrepid ES w/3.2-liter V6 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 62 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Intrepid includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Intrepid .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Electrical problem:
Moisture getting inside the car behind the kick panels makes the windows, door locks, and power mirrors operate by themselves. (1998)
Electrical problem:
The interior lights will not go out or will not come on because of a blown fuse due to a damaged wiring harness in the roof area. (1998-99)
Engine noise:
Engine tapping noise on startup of V6 engines requires updated exhaust valve swivel pads. (1998-03)
Fuel gauge:
If gas tank is slow to fill or repeatedly trips nozzle, a revised fuel tank vent kit may be required. (2000-01)
Headlights:
Instrument lights may get bright and dim, and headlights and/or fog lights may come on spontaneously due to loose or corroded connector at the headlight switch. (2000-04)
Keyless entry:
Keyless entry transmitter range may be less than 10-feet requiring. A revised antenna will extend range. (1998-99)
Oil leak:
The oil filter adapter may come out of the engine block when the filter is removed on 3.2L and 3.5L engines. When this happens the adapter must be replaced, not reinstalled. (1998-99)
Oil leak:
Oil leak from gallery plug(s) on the 2.7-liter V6 can be fixed by adding an additional plug. (1998-02)
Steering problems:
Drivability problems occur when the speed sensor wires pull out of the transmission. (1999)
Windows:
If power window sticks, motor may have to be replaced. (1998-2001)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $440 |
| Alternator | $360 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $775 |
| Brakes | $615 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,300 |
| Exhaust System | $425 |
| Radiator | $430 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,505 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $360 |
Our price chart for this generation Dodge Intrepid details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2004 | |||
| Intrepid | $5,500-6,600 | $4,700-5,700 | $2,300-2,700 |
| 2003 | |||
| Intrepid | $4,600-5,800 | $3,900-4,900 | $1,700-2,100 |
| 2002 | |||
| Intrepid | $3,800-5,000 | $3,100-4,100 | $1,200-1,600 |
| Intrepid R/T | $5,300-6,100 | $4,600-5,200 | $2,200-2,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| Intrepid | $3,200-4,300 | $2,500-3,400 | $800-1,100 |
| Intrepid R/T | $4,500-5,200 | $3,700-4,300 | $1,600-1,900 |
| 2000 | |||
| Intrepid | $2,800-3,500 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-800 |
| Intrepid R/T | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 1999 | |||
| Intrepid | $2,500-3,100 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| 1998 | |||
| Intrepid | $2,200-2,800 | $1,600-2,000 | $400-500 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Dodge Intrepid include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 203.7 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.9 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3422 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 18.4 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 56 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.4 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.1 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
All Intrepids had V6 engines, in a choice of two configurations. A dual-overhead-cam 2.7-liter V6, installed in the base Intrepid, produced 200 horsepower. The sportier ES model held a 225-horsepower, single-cam V6 with 3.2-liter displacement. That engine became an ES option in 2000, no longer standard fare. For 2000, the high-performance R/T carried a 242-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6. SXT picked up the R/T engine in 2003 and upped the output to 250. All Intrepids used a 4-speed automatic transmission, but the ES, R/T, and SXT got Chrysler's Autostick edition, which could be shifted manually when desired.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 2.7 / 167 | 200 | 190 | 4-speed automatic: 21/30 | 4-speed automatic: 26.2 |
| ohc V6 | 3.2 / 197 | 225 | 225 | 4-speed automatic: 19/29 | 4-speed automatic: 20.7 |
| ohc V6 | 3.5 / 215 | 242-250 | 248-250 | 4-speed automatic: 18/27 | 4-speed automatic: 19.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Canada
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Dodge Intrepid include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Intrepid |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1998:
A few passenger-airbag module assemblies are missing some required components, so airbag would not deploy during a crash.
1998-02:
Some vehicles may have faulty seat-recliner bolts, allowing the seat to unexpectedly recline. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1999:
The front-seatbelt retractor does not comply with the requirements of the standard. If the retractor does not work properly, it will not adequately protect occupants in the event of a crash.
1999-00:
Inadequately manufactured mounting bolt for seatbelt shoulder height-adjustable turning loop may not withstand sufficient force to function properly in certain impact situations.
2000:
Brake master-cylinder piston-retainer snap ring may be bent inward, which could result in brake-drag condition.
2000:
Molding flash on primary lever may prevent operation of G-lock and tilt lock functions on some driver-side retractors, which could reduce driver protection during a frontal crash.
2000:
Passenger-airbag inflator assembly on some cars contains incorrect inflator charge amount.
2000-01:
In the event of a crash, there is a potential for injury if the occupant's head were to contact the B-pillar. Owners will be sent a storage-bin accessory unit that can be attached to the B-pillar along with installation instructions.
2000-01:
Some of the owner's manuals for these vehicles are missing instructions for properly attaching a child-restraint system's tether strap to the tether anchorage.
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