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The timing chain on my 1999 Chrysler Intrepid broke and the...

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Answer by Gunde
Submitted on 1/4/2004
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It is an interference engine on the Intrepid so it can be a write off if you are unlucky. In any case it's a major repair job whoever does the job for you. The same thing just happened to my 2000 Intrepid with 125.000 km on it. (I don't know yet how much damage was done. Best-case scenario is that it's only the timing chain that needs to be fixed and then it will cost about $2000. Just the labour is 9 hours.) I have read elsewhere on the Internet that this problem is very common and that Chrysler is trying to sweep it in under the carpet. They offer no support and are usually trying to blame it on bad maintenance. It's totally unacceptable that a car has damage of this magnitude so prematurely. If anybody else has had the same problem, please respond here. I think we all should put pressure on Chrysler to compensate for something that's clearly a design flaw

Answer by Peter
Submitted on 3/23/2004
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I am Canadian, an Ontario resident, and my timing chain blew apart at 95,000km, which I believe is roughly 60,000miles. My Chrysler dealership told me I was lucky that the chain did not destroy the cams, pistons..but the repair costs totalled $1700 Canadian since labour alone was approx 9 hours, and the tensioner, guides and chain had to be replaced. The dealership admits to a design flaw, but there is no compensation available. The mechanic who worked on my engine has now worked on 4 more since I brought mine in 2 1/2 months ago. His story ranges to as high as a $6,000 engine replacement (since the alternative would have been a $10,000 repair). When a Canadian class action lawsuit transpires, please post a website we can link to here. Please, anyone who reads this, please do not buy a Chrysler ever again. P.S. the dealership found no evidence of my engine not being maintained properly, not that they blamed me, but I wasted good money on its upkeep, using synthetic oil the whole works.

Answer by Patty D
Submitted on 3/30/2004
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The timing belt of my 2000 Intrepid blew at 56,000 miles in January. I called the salesman that sold the car to me and he said to buy a new from him. I said NO!!! I still owe $8,000 on it and a new engine will cost about $5,000 with labor. I've been to two different mechanics and they said that the 2.7L engine is crap. Some shops don't even fix them because they stink and some shops specialize in them because that's how they make a lot of money. I sent an e-mail to their customer service department and they said "Sorry we can't fix it, your warranty is up. There is nothing we can do." I think we should all call the state Attorney General and file a complaint, call the Daimler Chrysler Zone Rep in your area and open a complaint file, e-mail or call Daimler Chrysler and open a complaint file with them. It's also very important that you submit your complaint to Bigclassaction.com I don't like to make a big deal about things but we should also call 20/20, Dateline and Walter Jacobsen from Fox. I think we all got fooled and taken advantage of because Daimler Chrysler knows about these problems and wont fix it. Most of us are still paying for the car and they should take responsibility for what has happened. Instead they want to blame us and say that we didn't maintain our cars. The engine is defective and we should all get our money back. If any one has any other ideas please contact to me through e-mail at pattyd42@yahoo.com Good luck to everyone

Answer by 94FordF150
Submitted on 4/10/2004
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I have a 1994 Ford pickup running a 5.0 liter engine with 227,500 miles and still get 16 miles per gal on the highway and 13 mpg in town. All that I have had to do to it (out side of regular maintenance) is replace the ball joints and put on a new water pump gasket. This was done at 225,000. I also have a 1999 Concorde with the 2.7 engine with 87,000 miles. The timing chain jumped on a cold start and bent all the intake valves. I did all the work myself and spent $540 on 12 intake valves a gasket set and $120 at the machine shop to have the heads done. I hate to do it but I am going to sell this pile of s..t to someone else. I estimate the work I did will be good for about 30,000 more miles before it goes down again. For all of you thinking about buy a new engine DON'T DO IT, because you will have the same thing happen again. The 2.7 is junk right out of the box.

Answer by Sean F
Submitted on 5/13/2004
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Just like everyone else i have also had problems with the 2.7 engine.. I first bought the vehicle with 62,000 miles on it and at 80,000 miles the engine blew.. Well thank god i had a warranty on it at that time and the warranty company paid for a new engine to be put in the car and now at 96,000 miles the timing chain has broken and bent my valves and all types of stuff and now with my warranty company in the middle of bankruptcy i am unable to get a new engine less than $4000 and that's with a friend working at a shop giving an awesome discount.. I am willing to do anything to get this car fixed without having to spend $4000 on this car when i still owe $3000 on it.. Please e-mail me at seanfinlay@cox.net if i can do anything!!

Answer by Ms. V
Submitted on 5/14/2004
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My car has been at the dealer since March 29, 2004 for what they first stated was the cylinder head and the tensioner to the timing chain malfunctioning due to sludge in the engine. Also, the power door lock on the driver side was malfunctioning. I purchased an extended warranty who I am in dispute right now with who stated that this was not covered due to the sludge in the engine. After I agree to pay the $1500.00 for the repair, then they say that the oil pump is not working which the car did not have any oil pressure when it was towed into the dealer. After the warranty company agreed to pay for the oil pump then they call and say that the valves are bent which would cost another $2000.00 dollars. I am not budging on payment right now, I have talked with an attorney and lately have gotten the General manager of the dealership involved. I even sent an email to the manufacturer asking what is up with this car and should it have given me some type of check engine light or even an oil light and the response was the car was not equipped to give you that type of warning. I just happen to have ran into someone today at the salvage yard that was paying for an engine for a 2001 Concorde the same engine problems. We have talked about looking for owners to see if we can ban together to do a class action suit

Answer by Yvonne
Submitted on 5/15/2004
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Hey Guys, you are NOT alone. I am experiencing the same problem. I have a Dodge Intrepid 2000 with 20,398 miles. As you can see from the miles, I do NOT do alot of driving. Two months after my warranty expired, I hear this noise and takes it to a Dodge dealership. I was informed that it was the timing chain in the engine. To fix the problem will be $1000 not a guarantee that it will fix the problem; the engine will need to be replaced ($5000 rebuilt engine) I have sent an email to Dodge with this website so they can see the complaints also, I have sent an email to 20/20 with the website address. We MUST let everyone know what's going on. Everyone of us MUST contact Dodge, 20/20, Attorney General, Better Business Bureau, etc. In order to be heard we MUST let these agencies know. PLEASE ACT NOW. Good LUCK; will keep you posted.

Answer by 98trepid
Submitted on 6/5/2004
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98 intrepid with 2.7 engine, 93K miles. oil lamp going on, heater not working properly, white smoke and oil coming out of exhaust pipe. cam and crank sensors reacting to oil leak. Dodge service manager said I need a new engine, all same old story I've read here and other sites, The design problem in the engine does not allow for proper amount of oil to get to top of engine, cooking the top and causing sludge. All dealers are telling their customers they did not properly maintain their cars. This is a highly dishonest practice and they're getting away with it. Daimler-Chrysler knows the problem and now they are doing away with the Intrepid, They have committed a crime by selling such junk and steal our hard earned money. Are we gonna let them get away with it? I have spent $4000 on this car and lost two jobs because of reliability problems and I am mad as hell, I have joined the class action suit. All of you should do the same as soon as possible, How does it feel getting ripped off like that and then blamed for it? NO MORE

Answer by krosen
Submitted on 6/17/2004
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Unfortunately...they've put the 2.7L engine in both the Intrepid...and the Chrysler Concorde. Same engine...same story. This week our 1999 Concorde with just 39,000 miles experienced complete engine failure when the timing chain jumped and caused irreparable damage. Of course, just a couple hours earlier our auto repair shop discovered sludge in the engine...oil passages blocked...and bearing material in the oil filter...not to mention the fact that the power locks and A/C had failed as well. Chrysler customer service answer -- it's your own fault, you must not have maintained it. They say the only problems with those engines are consumer error. Amazing...since I found thousands of complaints posted all over the Internet for the Intrepid and Concordes...all experiencing the same problems with the 2.7L. Like you...we always had routine maintenance done on our vehicle...just like we were supposed to.

Answer by billyd4120
Submitted on 6/21/2004
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We own a 1999 Intrepid with a 2.7L. When purchased it had 36,000 on it, with a current oil change. My wife and I had to get special financing because of problems in the past. We have to pay a high interest rate of 19%. They call this the "put you into a nice car with no problems, to establish credit deal". Well 2,500 miles later while driving the motor blew, no warning of any kind. Our mechanic took the motor apart and found the Timing Belt broke and there was a lot of sludge in the engine. He informed us that the oil passages are to small, so the motor was not getting oiled correctly. We took out a 3yr loan on the car @ $11,000. We still owe $9,000. We currently have no car with a huge loan to repay. The Dealership or Chrysler doesn't care. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My email address is erieextreme@yahoo.com

Answer by Tiffany Verret
Submitted on 6/23/2004
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I too own a Chrysler with the 2.7l V6 engine. At only 24,000 miles my engine has burned up! The dodge dealership says it was due to me never changing the oil. Bull!! I have had the oil change every 3000 miles. The past couple of times I brought the car in the oil was low. The most recent time I brought it in around 2200 miles cause the engine was knocking. The car was about 3 quarts low but no leak. JUST SLUDGE!! The doge dealership service department has had my car since early May. Even though I have the proof of my oil changes and the same dependable Lube business changing my oil with records...chrysler is still deciding whether or not to cover my car under warranty!!Clearly they are responsible . Meanwhile my car is sitting over there, hostage.Are they gonna sit on my car until I give in? Can they do that? Then I guess they are gonna put the same type crappy engine in my car. Oh yeah and still paying a note, thank you.

Answer by Mingo35
Submitted on 7/14/2004
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I have a 2000 Dodge Intrepid and the timing chain came apart and now I need a new Short Block Engine...there were NO signs of Sludge!!! I only have 45000 miles, no towing, no abuse...this is totally ridiculous. What happens now after the repair, drive for another 45000 miles and car will need another new engine??? DCX needs to do something to protect all the consumers with this faulty 2.7 engine. Does anybody remember when Lee Iaccoca sent a letter to all the people who had faulty transmissions back around 1990??? It stated Chrysler would stand behind the transmission 100%...anyone with problems would have it taken care of free of charge for as long as they owned the vehicle. Don't you think they need to do something like that with this engine????

Answer by Falcon-Eye
Submitted on 9/7/2004
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WHAT CAN I SAY??????? I have Intrepid 98, 2.7 L engine. I had so many problems with it: The sensor for the mileage doesn't show the right reading and the actual mileage done. It is always more than I do. If I drive 10 miles it shows that I drove 70, 20, 200, or even 90000 miles which screwed my car. The fuel pump is another disaster. Too much money to replace it for the price and the labor costs. Finally the car suddenly stopped last week. I sent it to the dealer where I always maintain it. The first checking was that it is the fuel pump. They replaced it. Does not work. Then they told me that the Power-train Control Module is broken. They checked to find new one but they couldn't Today the same dealer told me it is not the PCM but the Timing Chain had jump from its place and I am waiting for their estimation. When I was looking on the Internet for that chain, I found this site for which I was looking for for years. I recommend everybody not to buy Chrysler/Dodge product although my family is dealing with this company products for more than 50 years. I am going to get rid of this car. NEVER Again. Never to encourage anyone to buy their products. I will do all possible means to sue those companies.

Answer by Randall Carroll
Submitted on 9/13/2004
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I have a 99 dodge Intrepid. With 100000 mile on it. These are the problems I�ve had starting at only 80000 miles: Engine smokes Bracket on window broke (replaced whole window) Cooling fans went out now air conditioner doesn�t work Loose about 2 qt of oil a week. Oil pan leaks. Stabilizer links went out three time�s already Motor on windows went out. My dad works as a service manager for a Dodge Dealership in Knoxville Tennessee and he tells me that these problems are very common in the Intrepid. He said that the company actually knows about the problems but they make more money on repairs and parts rather than putting out a recall on the Intrepid. The only problem for me is that I�m in the Army stationed in Germany so it�s hard to get the work done to fix my problems. I would like to be one of thousands, im sure, to be part of this class action law suite. Randall S Carroll CMR 415 Box 4439 APO, AE 09114 jrcarrollc@kooltechs.com 011499641924958

Answer by BLUEIDQT
Submitted on 10/13/2004
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I own a 2000 intrepid 2.7L and along with everyone else here have had nothing but problems. First it started off small with the interior lights flashing while i was driving,dealer finally fixed the door switches after much hassle. Then the weather strip started to crease had to have replaced 3 times. Now the big stuff oil light comes on flickers then goes off bring it to the dealer needs a oil pressure switch. A few weeks later loud ticking noise from engine NO PROBLEM FOUND AT FIRST. Then they tell me I need a oil pan gasket. Two weeks later back in for same loud ticking noise thankfully the timing chain did not break but that was the problem. Had to have the timing chain,guides,tensioner, gaskets changed.

Answer by Tawana Porter
Submitted on 11/16/2004
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Oh my Goodness! My car broke down this past aug 2004. It is a Dodge Intrepid 2004 with the 2.7 liter dual cam v6 engine. What a piece of crap. We purchased the car in 2000 with 24,000 miles and purchased the extended warranty which covered it for 75,000 miles. The care broke down with 95,600 miles on it. Great for Chrysler. We are upside down in the loan owing a little over $7,000. It is not fun paying for a vehicle that does not run.The timing chain came apart and after the chrysler dealership looked at it, they decided there was $1100 worth of damages and it would not guarantee the car would run and by the way a new engine is $4000 before labor. Great news, huh? Where do we sign up to sue Chrysler for this malfunction of a engine? They should definitely pay for the replacement of all faulty parts on the car. We never had a problem out of the car until August 24, 2004.

Answer by Tawana Porter
Submitted on 11/16/2004
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Oh my Goodness! My car broke down this past aug 2004. It is a Dodge Intrepid 2004 with the 2.7 liter dual cam v6 engine. What a piece of crap. We purchased the car in 2000 with 24,000 miles and purchased the extended warranty which covered it for 75,000 miles. The care broke down with 95,600 miles on it. Great for Chrysler. We are upside down in the loan owing a little over $7,000. It is not fun paying for a vehicle that does not run.The timing chain came apart and after the chrysler dealership looked at it, they decided there was $1100 worth of damages and it would not guarantee the car would run and by the way a new engine is $4000 before labor. Great news, huh? Where do we sign up to sue Chrysler for this malfunction of a engine? They should definitely pay for the replacement of all faulty parts on the car. We never had a problem out of the car until August 24, 2004.

Answer by Blu47nav
Submitted on 12/5/2004
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My 2.7L V6 engine sputtered to death as I approached a stop light. The vehicle was incapacitated on a very well travelled and busy highway in Western Massachusetts. It was just in the shop for complete maintenance. Belts to brakes. 92,357 Miles. I could not move my vehicle, and I was trapped on the road and unable to move. I was blocking an entire lane of traffic, and could easily have been rear ended by another motorist. I had to call a local police officer to sit behind me until a towing truck could reach the scene. I was told that the engine repair would cost about the same as putting in a new engine. Both way out of my price range. I am a high school student and I inherited this car from my grandfather. Now the car is junk. It sits in my driveway until I can get it fixed, or I can sell it for scrap. Does anyone know if the 3.2L engine, which doesn't seem to have nearly as many problems, can be put in instead?

Answer by mark.s
Submitted on 1/2/2005
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I am a owner of a 2000 dodge intrepid w/2.7L and So far I have had good luck.My sugestion to all that people out there that havent experienced the problems that these people are facing,please take the time out to use a sludge treatment for your car. use it on a normal basis if you dont want problems. you can use 1qt transmission fluid added to oil prior to oil change because it has conditioners that will get rid of the sludge,or you can pick up a oil additive at napa called(reslone).for all the people that have allready experienced these problem i have the deepest sympathy for you and I hope that daimler chrysler gets sued its the only way that they will deal with this problem.

Answer by moejoe15
Submitted on 1/12/2005
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I have 1999 intrepid that has 91,000 miles on it. I have owned it for alittle over a year after buying it from local credit union for close to nothing which is the good news. The bad news is my timing chain skipped on me yesterday in crazy traffic with no warning at all before hand. Total engine failure. I am now looking at same outrageous costs as everyone here to replace motor all together for around 4,000 dollars. That is from a freind who owns auto repair shop and is a "deal" if you know what I mean between freinds. I am very fortunate to own this car outright and will be having it towed to the nearest junkyard for parts or burned for all I care. What a sad sad way to treat loyal customers by telling them its our fault after regular maintenance too! never ever again will I own a chrysler or dodge vehicle.

Answer by Bimmer_2002
Submitted on 2/2/2005
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Well, well, well......looks like alot of people have problems.....all you guys could do an engine swap (3.2L or 3,5L) much cheaper than rebuilt and why would you go and put back another 2.7 in there??? That wouldn't be the best idea........So, that said.....for those of you interested, go visit: www.dodgeintrepid.net , a very interesting community/club with alot, alot and alot of infos on maintenance and mods.......oh and did you know that you had to run your 2.7 with synthetic oil??? and change your belt (timing chain), water pump and related stuff at around 90,000 to 100,000 miles??? It's not to hard to look around for tips on how to take care af your car or/and read the owners manual. Anyways, hope this helps.

Answer by Andrew
Submitted on 2/19/2005
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Hi, I have a Chrysler Intrepid 2.7L.. I bought it brand new from Galt Chrysler. Unfortuantly all of these comments are scaring me..So far my Intrepid has had no problems at all. I do regular oil changes and maintain the car very well. It has occurd to me that these cars start to have problems at 125 000km. My Intrepid is at 119000KM. I have drivin it to the States many of times i feel very safe with this car only becuase it has NEVER let me down, it has NEVER made any strange noises. I am thinking that i should trade it in for the 2004 Chrysler Intrepid 3.5L becuase i here those engines are great it is only the 2.7L with all these problems. What i dont understand is how Chrysler/ Dodge will not help there customers out. I think Chrysler is a great car, but i am very dissapointed in them for letting all of these innocent people down like this. If you want a bad car look at Ford. we are lucky we are driving Chrysler, compared to Ford.

Answer by Andrew
Submitted on 2/21/2005
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The 1999 Chrysler Intrepid 2.7L. I love Chrysler. I also had a 1987 Plymouth Voyager, belive it or not i put 350 000KM and it still runs beautifully. I traded it in for the 2005 Dodge Durango, the wife deserves a new truck i herard there have been lots of problems with the Durango but i bought the biggest engine and fully loaded i even got GPS :)..I also have a 1999 Intrepid 2.7L that i purchased 6 years ago. She runs like a beauty. it has 119 000KM. I have had no problems what so ever, oil changes every 4500KM it is in perfect shape. i am now pondering on buying a new car only because of what is happening to everybody. NOTHING has happend to me yet but you never know what will happen. The car is already paid off anyhow so i got my well use out of it. But people just because Chrysler made one mistake with the 2.7L engines dont mean never to buy one again. If you plan on buying a new car i would still go with a chrysler ( if you want an American engine) except but the bigger engine..(3.0L, 3.5L depends the car) possibly with a HEMI!

Answer by Chris
Submitted on 2/27/2005
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I am so glad that I found this site. I have a 2000 Intrepid with a BLOWN ENGINE ALSO!! I took my car in to have the timing belt replaced and a tune up. The car only had 52,000 miles on it but we had planned on keeping it until the wheels fell off so I wanted to keep good maintenance on it. The dealership told me that those services did not need to be done until at least 75,000 miles and that I was wasting my money to have it done now. One month later the timing belt broke and destroyed my engine! If Dodge knew that there was problems with the timing belt why did they tell me not to get it serviced!? After it broke, I contacted the dealership and they could care less that it broke. If anyone has any suggestions I would love to hear them! My e-mail is AgapeLefever@aol.com

Answer by \|ANDREW\|
Submitted on 3/11/2005
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I own a 1999 Chrysler Intrepid 2.7L. I also own a 2005 Dodge Durango fully loaded. My intrepid has 117000KM, my car has been running great. Every year i drive it from Ontario to Massachesuets USA. Now i take the Durango because it is my new car:). My Intrepid has been running great but now these horror stories have made me wonder. Should i buy a new chrysler intrepid with a bigger engine possibly the 3.2? or should i just keep this one. The only problem i have had with my wonderful intrepid is the air conditioning has just been knocked out. But its a cheap easy fix says my mechanic. Anyhow what should i do? will my Intrepid start having problems..it is properly maintainted

Answer by T.Yardley
Submitted on 8/22/2005
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My 2001 Intrepid ran like a dream until 5 days ago when the timing chain broke and caused damage to the tune of $1900.Car has 59,000 miles and mechanic told me the engine looks like it has 159,000 miles. I still owe 2 years so I have no choice but to get this piece of crap fixed. I am on a fixed income and I'm having to use the money intended for my recently deceased mother's grave marker to pay for this.I wish I had done some research before I bought this car, I certainly will in the future. My late dad always told me to stick with Ford. All previous cars (4) have been Fords and all repair bills together have totalled less than $300.00. I have certainly learned a very costly lesson and hope others see this website before making the same mistakes all of us did.

Answer by bob
Submitted on 10/12/2005
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my 2001 dodge intrepid with 73,000 miles on it never gave me any problem at all. i have been doing my own oil changes for over 30 years. Recently my oil light has started coming on , only when the engine has been running a while and hot. I had just recently done a oil change witch i do every two months if it needs it or not about every 2,500 miles. i had a extended warrenty on it so i took it back to a local dealer. the shop mechanic told me the oil sending unit was leaking and he replaced it for 35 dollars and 40 bucks labor. next day i go to work about 35 miles away and the oil light is back on. that night i went on line and read all the problems with the 2.7 engine with the timing chains and the slug problem. i went back to my dealer he said he never heard of it. next day i took it in and traded it in. and this time i bought a Jap car my first. Chrysler can go to hell i will never buy another Chrysler product

Answer by Jeff9848
Submitted on 10/30/2005
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My 1999 Dodge Intrepid with the 2.7 liter engine has sat in the driveway for a year now while I continue to wait until I get the loan payments paid off. It started making that "dieseling" sound and when we brought it to the dealer they said we would need a new engine and that we shouldn't spend the money on all the diagnostics because it would need a new engine no matter what. They all seemed to be aware of the 2.7 problem. So this beautiful car sits dead in the driveway a year now. I'm waiting for the neighbors to complain about it. When I tell them my story, they won't buy Daimler Chrysler anymore either. You see, when I called Chrysler they were rehearsed, and claimed no fault. It was all my fault according to them. It is not. I do top notch maintenance. I have a full shop complete with hoist. My oil changes are at less than 3,000 mile intervals. My fault? Bull. I have been Mopar all the way since the days of Shirley Muldowney. I'm done. I visited a Honda dealer today. No more American cars for me (I feel awful just saying that).

Answer by steve
Submitted on 1/11/2006
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For those of you that had or have a 2.7 engine, you are waisting your time calling chrysler.My engine blew at 137,000. kms and i was told to do better maintenance next time..i didnt give into rebilding a 2.7 or replacing junk with junk..I installed a 3.2 but the maodifications are quite extensive. The computor needs to be changed(both of them) the body side computor as well, the exhaust, the air conditioner, the altenator and brakets, i made a deal with the local scrap yard, bought the engine and he agreed to give me whatever i needed to convert.This cost me a total of 1300.00 canadian and 13 hours work. thats the only solution unless the car is stolen and never found^^ you know what i mean

Answer by walker17_22
Submitted on 3/6/2006
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I have a 1999 Dodge Intrepid I just found out today that the timing chain has gone bad and it will cost at least #3,000. to put in a rebuilt motor. If the motor is bad I don't want another motor I need a different car. I drive an hour to work each day. If I don't have a car I will not be able to work. I just missed one day because of the $#%#%$& Intrepid. I will never buy another Chrysler vehicle!!!! My first 1995 Intrepid burst into flames as I was driving down the road I should have learned then!!!! I will be printing all of these responses and to keep for whatever lawyer, Attorney General or T.V. show that needs more information and I am going to be doing a lot of research for hard facts. Look out Chrysler! We're fighting back! Contact me at walker17_22@yahoo.com

Answer by chevelle1972
Submitted on 4/2/2006
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I am an automotive wholesaler. Chrysler products are very popular cars and bring quite a bit of money at the auction compared to their Ford and GM counterparts. That is, unless they have a 2.7 engine. For example, I recently bought a 1999 Concorde with 88k miles on it, loaded with everything available. It has a 3.2l in it. I had to pay 2900 for it. That was a little high but I needed the car. 20 minutes later, the same car (it was even the same color) with 79k on it brought only 1600 because it had a 2.7. It's pretty common knowledge that these engines are crap. Buying a vehicle with a 2.7l is a gamble. You might get more than your money's worth out of it or it could blow up on your way home from the dealership. The latter is the more likely.

Answer by Harry
Submitted on 4/29/2006
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Our family owns a '99 intrepid, Power Steerng pump is going out and needs repair. We have 115K on the original engine, but I think it may be time to replace it. Those that have problems with the tranny being stuck in 1st gear "limp mode", change the speed sensor, it probably failed, I did it in 30 minutes and $20 Those with the blinking oil light, replace the sender, it is know to fail and cause that $20-30 and 1 hour. Those with sloppy steering fix it quick, the rack'n pinion is going bad $400 & 2 days. I know this cuz I did all the repairs on this car, and saved my family $$ by making 5k-7k reapairs at shops cost about $1k and a week of my life total so far.. Knock on wood.. Going to shop for a GM car today, maybe a New Malibu Maxx... I feel for those that have lots on there car still, we ourselves have $4k left, but this car has got to go. I personally have a Stratus with a 2.7L and 72K mi on it... I am worried...

Answer by John & Susan
Submitted on 4/30/2006
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We purchased a 2001 Intrepid and like the car until our Oil light came on. We took it to the dealer and the dealer told us that this is our fault. We change our oil & oil filter every 2800 to 3000 miles along with the air filter every time. We were told that we are using the incorrect oil at one point. We were told that there was nothing wrong with the 2.7 engine and we have only 70,000 miles at the time. We were told today that this could be $200.00 to $1200.00+ after they open it up and look, the service tech told us that this could be thousands if we have to put a new engine in it. We are disappointed because this is my wife's daily driver and I do not want her breaking down on long stretches. More to come....

Answer by roberto lopez
Submitted on 7/24/2006
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I own a 1999 concorde with 121000 miles on it, I agree but the manual says change the timing belt at 100000 miles.So i didit at 75000, lucky for me my mechanic says it was about to go. I over manintain my car. syn oil I still change at 3000 , transmision pan 6 qts and filter every 10000, dealer says 25000. So far im lucky but I have a 3.2, as for buying a new engine you cant on the older models. Even the dealership motors are rebuilts. you should be able to rebuit a 3.2 99 chysler engine for 2,500 in calif out the door with a 3 yr warranty, but dont wait till it blows up.If you like the car and have maintained it well rebuilt it at 180000 even if its still running decent.

Answer by TamNBama63
Submitted on 8/1/2006
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After reading all of these posts, I sit here speechless (typeless??) I just found out my 2000 Dodge Intrepid (2.7) has to have a timing chain. 129,000 miles on mine but I did a Vin # history search and it came back stating there were 12 reports linked with my Intrepid. I would have to pay to see what exactly each reportis about, but being a single parent, one income, I couldn't afford to pay for the history so see what was reported. If I had to guess, it had something to do with past timing chain problems. I still owe 6,000.00 on mine and my mechanic said it would be 2,500.00 to repair this problem. On top of that is has caused the head gasket to leak. Not sure what I am going to do at this point except pray and hope the Good Lord leads me out of this mess! I agree that Dodge should step up and take some responsibility for this. If not well, you know the ol saying "you reap what you sow!" I do count my blessings as I have read here that some experienced this much sooner and at a way lower mileage rate than I. I will pray for all Dodge Intrepid owners out there facing the financial hardship this has caused for us all. I will pray for Dodge/Chrysler as well!!! This is disheartening as my grandmother retired from the old Chrysler building right before they tore it down in Detroit. They don't make em like they used to!! Be blessed!

Answer by dannie
Submitted on 12/11/2006
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hi all i'vestarted reading this site a bit too late i have a 99 intrepid that has been sitting in my drive way since january 06, i still have to pay till dec 07 before i done my payments. My timming chain broke somehow in my driveway, the car just never started it, i got in it one morning on my way to take it for its regular oil change, i started my car and got out to brush off the snow and noticed no exust comming out of it so i got back in the car turned off the radio and heater and tried to start it again nothing happend not a sound no bangs not ticking nothing just like that but it ran perfect 2 days before hand. Now after being told by the time they order a used motor from somewhere out or town its going to be over 5,000 like i have that kind of money lying around i had 5 other people look at it and get the same thing its the timming chain one guy told me 800$ to fix it then after he left it sitting in his lot for 3 months he comes back to me saying its going to be over 3,000 now so once again its sits in my driveway till either i fix it myself which it looks like thats what im doing since as a single mother of 4 i cant afford someone else doing it and dont get me wrong i know its a big job but hell its already finished i cant make it worse so if any law suits come in canada count me in i want them nailed to the wall for this crap.

Answer by Lisa T.
Submitted on 12/20/2006
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Same Problem. Same piece of crap! 1999 Concorde w/Less than 100,000. First the problem started with a/c not blowing on all settings after the heater is used. Then automatic door locks and window motors start to go. Oil light begins flickering. Will start to come on at stop signs and lights, go to take off and light goes off. If your lucky the Check Engine light will come on and then POW! Timing chain jumped and Complete Engine Failure! I owe just under $4000, debating on whether to pay for rebuilt engine to be installed (about the same as what I owe) and keep paying (not sure how long new engine will last. OR should I pay off what is owed and cut my losses.???? What to do?????

Answer by stupidtater
Submitted on 3/8/2007
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Live and Learn. If everyone would think back and stop driving a car the moment something doesn't seem right and have potential problems looked into you might avoid such costly repairs. Lack of maintainence and ignoring check engine lights and noises from under the hood that don't seem to fix themselves are the biggest reason for the need for major repairs. You whiners know who you are and the symptoms that you ignored or the money that you did not want to spend upon having your oil changes (you know that thing you need to do every 3k miles)when the service mgr tells you it might be a good idea to....then next time give it some thought before calling the service manager a terrible monster that wants to steal all your money. MAINTAIN and DO NOT IGNORE OBVIOUS PROBLEMS !!!! You folks for the most part deserve a huge repair bill !!!

Answer by Christine
Submitted on 4/2/2007
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Yet another. I own a 2000 Chrysler Concorde. Last week, it started sounding like a diesel. I immediately had several mechanics look at it. Every one of them was aware of the crap 2.7L engines. I have a friend at a service department of a Chrysler dealership who said replacing the timing chain would silence the problem long enough for me to dump (sell) the car. Unfortunately, on the way to drop it off last night, I lost all acceleration and the car would barely stay running. I had it towed to the dealership and just got a phone call this morning that the valves would need to be replaced as well now. $1500.00 so far. My car is 13 days from being paid off. Figures.

Answer by ashley
Submitted on 7/19/2007
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I own a 1994 Intrepid and recently had to have the timing chain replaced. Then the next week I had the A/C rebuilt and was told that about 40 other things needed to be replaced. Now I only paid 1300 for the car. I've now put in OVER 4000 dollars in it and it STILL runs like CRAP! I was getting 22 miles per gallon... on the interstate. Now I get 9!!!! What the hell! You could blame my mechanic, yes, but the car in general has just been awful. The only thing I really liked about my car was that 5 people could ride comfortably... and I could beat the 2000 corvette while racing... but even 84 VANS are passing me!!! What could be causing this problem? Who knows.. probably the timing chain off... but man this is all too stressful, I understand how you guys feel!

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Question by Katrin
Submitted on 12/28/2003
Related FAQ: rec.autos.makers.chrysler FAQ, Part 1/6
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The timing chain on my 1999 Chrysler Intrepid broke and the repair shop is quick to sell me a rebuilt motor. Does the 2.7l engine always "self-destruct" or is there hope to fix it inexpensively?

Answer by telecaster
Submitted on 1/2/2004
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look this engine up on internet and find out if it is an interference, or non-interference engine. a non intereference engine should have no piston, valve or head damage. or, call chrysler- in detroit mi. did you ask exactly what the extent of the damage was? tell them you want to see for yourself. if it is dismantled it will be visible. broken, banged up and in pieces.

Answer by little henry
Submitted on 2/4/2004
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Absolutely - the chrysler Intrepid is a complete piece of crap. The timing chain on my 2000 Intrepid broke and now Chrysler is trying to blame me for not maintaining my car. To me this is completely "crooked" of Chrysler. I have the extended warranty and yet they will not honour it. I will never buy a Chrysler again and HIGHLY SUGGEST THAT NO ONE ELSE DOES EITHER.All they have suggested to me is to buy a new motor costing me $5,200! Outrageous!!!! the question i really think should be asked is - why should i buy another motor - so that one can break too???? Please - if your Chrysler Intrepid is a piece of crap too - write your comments here! Thanks.

Answer by Bruce
Submitted on 2/7/2004
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There is a lawyer in Ohio that is collecting people for a possible class action suit. The lawyers name is DAVID ROLOFF, ATTORNEY AT LAW 1350 Euclid Avenue, Suite 1550 Cleveland, OH 44115-1817 Phone: (216) 781-1700 or (800) 321-9199 droloff@shaperoroloff.com I contacted him and he sent me a document to fill out, Please do the same and send this out to anyone you can that has the same problems. the more the better case.

Answer by james y
Submitted on 2/13/2004
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I don,t have a Intrepid but i do have a chrysler concore with a 2.7 engine. the timing chain jumped at 44.000 miles. I was told it would 5.000 dollars to fix.

Answer by John
Submitted on 1/5/2004
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The design of this 2.7 Liter Chrysler engine is faulty. Thousands of people have problems with it. (Soon probably hundreds of thousands.) Law suits are brewing both in the USA and Canada. You can read more about it at, e.g., these websites: http://intrepidhorrorstories.blogspot.com http://www.complain-complain.com/com/list_complaint.asp?table=chrysler

Answer by cmc4430
Submitted on 2/25/2004
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2001 Stratus 2.7 engine timing chain at 80,000 miles repaired for $1000.00 90 Days later timing chain again new engine recommended.2.7 is junk per 3 mechanics.Will never buy Chrysler ever again

Answer by Dan M
Submitted on 3/6/2004
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My timing chain broke at 81000 miles, engine is blown. I havent been able to find another engine les that 4000 dollars. this is bull crap, Dodge should buy the new engine and install it. Please contact me so i can sign up for any suit against Dodge to get our cars repaired.

Answer by Houseman
Submitted on 3/25/2004
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I had to replace the engine in my 99 intrepid at 140,000 Kilometers. $4300 later. They also blamed it on improper maintainance. Ontario, Canada House

Answer by DANIEL
Submitted on 4/2/2004
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HOW IS CHRYSLER INTREPID

Answer by smiller0422
Submitted on 4/6/2004
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How is Chrysler Intrepid?? CRAP!. I own a 1999 Intrepid with 75,000 mile and the engine has to be replaced at a cost of $7800. I still owe $2000 on the car. I like everyone else, knew the importance of changing oil and I did on schedule. The 2.7 is CRAP! I will never buy a Chrysler product as long as I live. My message to anyone looking to buy a new/used car - "make SURE! it is not a Chrysler".

Answer by Stephanie Harper
Submitted on 4/8/2004
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I am very glad I found this sight, it rocks however my 2001 Chrysler I ntrepid sits in my drivway until I can comeup with $3,000 + to fix it. All the while still paying on it for another year and a half. If anyone has any further information other than what has already been post please conract me at sharper274@comcast.net. At this pont I'm willing to try anything seeing as how Daimler Chrysler doesn't want to do anything about this.

Answer by robt esquivel
Submitted on 4/12/2004
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Just bought a 2000 intrepid with 62,000 miles and the oil pump went out and ruined my engine. cost is crazy looking at 4,000

Answer by Ontario Canada (former) Chrysler owner
Submitted on 4/12/2004
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Well, well, well. I hate to say it, but misery loves company! My mechanic told me about this web-site so I thought I would check it out and I'm glad I did. I can't believe there are so many others out there with the same problem. My 1999 Intrepid just blew the timing chain at about 165,000 km, and I am also looking at a similar bill(and with a year to pay on the vehicle). My mechanic told me he's having a hard time even getting a re-built engine because they're so hard to find. When you buy a vehicle you expect it to last you more than 5 years. Never again!

Answer by Sniper24
Submitted on 4/28/2004
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My 1999 Intrepid Blew at 28,678 miles and cost me $4,000. The cam had to be replaced at 30,000 miles. I made the mistake of keeping the car and the engine has just blown again at 95,000 miles. If I had known the first time about the 2.7L engine problems I would have sold it. The Dodge Dealer said that the timing sensor went bad and it will cost $5,500 for a remanufactured engine plus $3,000 for labor. I was told the oil looked sluggish and that there was no reason why it happened. I think I will contact the Ohio Attorney. Check out this web site also for a complaint. http://anyboard.net/autos/cars/cars/posts/118.html

Answer by Dave M
Submitted on 5/3/2004
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I was looking for a Chrysler Intrepid up until 5 minutes ago... but what about the 3.2L engine? Is it better/worse than the 2.7L? Any info will be appreciated!

Answer by Jeff C
Submitted on 5/4/2004
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My timing chain just broke yesterday at 135,000 km (84,000 miles) on the way to my mechanics to have him fix this 'noise'. It cracked the cap and spewed oil all over the engine. By the time I got there that oil was on fire. The dealership told me that they might be able to fix the timing chain alone ($2000) but if not, replace the engine ($7000). I still owe about $10 grand on it. I'll be getting rid of this car. It's a time bomb.

Answer by Chris B
Submitted on 5/11/2004
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Same thing happened to my 2000 Intrepid this last weekend (105k miles). Stalled at a stop sign and the engine's shot. Same timing chain problem referenced elsewhere. Mechanic says it "might" be possible to tear the engine apart and repair, from reading this list it sounds like it's probably not worth it.

Answer by Varrus
Submitted on 5/22/2004
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Jeez... 2 Days ago I was backing up out of a parking space, and suddenly it felt and sounded like I hit something.....nope. I haven't taken it to my mechanic yet, but my car shifts strangely, won't shift out of 2nd gear, and the check engine light is on.... I think I've heard this sort of story before....Anyway, suffice it to say, I'm sure it's the same sort of problem everyone else on here seems to be having...hopefully Canadians are starting a class action lawsuit. I'm normally not the type of guy to take legal action, but this is flipping ridiculous.

Answer by Lesbia O. Marrero
Submitted on 5/22/2004
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I have always taken care of my car. Changing the oil every 3,000 miles and doing the appropriate. This week, May 17, 2004, the timing belt broke without any warning and thanks God it happened when the mechanic was going to change the oil, once again. In addition, the A/C has not been able to get fixed. I am voting to have us all to begin a class law suit against the Dodge/Chrysler for not taking care of there customers and products.

Answer by azeedah
Submitted on 5/25/2004
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Hey everyone, great site, we have a 98 intrepid - 3.2l engine, 105 000 KM. Lately the car refuses to start. ( the dash board lites not comming on or flickers on and off) After trying for about 10 minutes then it starts and behaves normal. What's up with this ? anyone have that problem ?

Answer by Adam K.
Submitted on 5/28/2004
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I am an owner of an Intrepid 99, 3.2 fully loaded with 80,000Km on it made on Canadian roads. I decided to go with a bigger engine since I heard a lot of bad things about 2.7 liters. So far the car runs like a charm. All the recommended maintenance and proper oil changes. Only minor problems: 1. Front passenger door latch noisy and replaced. 2. Output Speed Sensor failed and replaced. 3. Burnt bulb in one of the interior lights. I have all the reasons to believe it is a great car with an excellent fuel economy and dynamics.

Answer by Baghsagh
Submitted on 5/28/2004
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I just got my 2000 Intrepid with the 2.7. No sludge but may have new timeing chain and guidgs put in. It has 50,000 on it and I wish to keep her. Am useing Mobil 1 and de gunker "GUNK" at the oil changes. Only paying $200/month so was good deal for me and car is black and turns heads. Steering is fu**** but still love this car! May die in it, reminds me of my 71 road runner unsafe.

Answer by roy d
Submitted on 6/9/2004
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I am in the same boat . 2001 intrepid 119000km . Diagnosed slapping timing chain and plugged oil ports. 4000 plus tax to rebuild. Dealer refers to the car as old and blames me for not looking after it. I was using Amsoil synthetic oil. Apparently synthetic oil doesn't help. I'm thinking about putting a 3.2 liter in instead. engine is a lot cheaper to buy. roberta.de@sympatico.ca

Answer by Bill Creech
Submitted on 6/24/2004
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Just wondering if anyone has Chrysler car with 3.2 engine. I have a '99 Intrepid, bought with 64k miles. Only problem to date, is one of the cooling fans went bad.Had to replace the whole assembly. Dealer wanted $550.00, just for the fan assembly, no labor. I found one on the internet for $225.00, and installed it myself. Quiet a task, but managable. I certainly don't claim to be a mechanic. I'm wondering if anyone here has changed their own timing belt. Please reply. e-mail address----thumbpick@fuse.net

Answer by Scoop
Submitted on 6/28/2004
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I have a 1999 Chrysler Concorde that's tensioner just went out and has bent all the valves. The dealership quoted me $7,000.00 for a re-built 2.7 liter engine. Or $2,500.00 to replace the valves and who know what else. This is bulls**t. Everyone should contact this Attorney in Ohio with regards to the 2.7 Liter engine failure. His name is David Roloff at (800)321-9199 or Email him at droloff@shaperoroloff.com and join in the class action suit at bigclassaction.com

Answer by MsScarlett
Submitted on 7/1/2004
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I purchased a new 1998 Dodge Intrepid with 3.2 Liter engine. I now have almost 105,000 miles. I hate to admit this but.....I've never had my car regularly serviced, except changing oil occasionally. I've had only a few repairs,(cooling fan included) knock on wood. I absolutely LOVE my car, no complaints. Before reading the horror stories on this website I had considered purchasing another new Dodge Intrepid but now not so sure. Good luck to all of you, guess I'm glad I have 3.2 Liter engine.

Answer by Anna
Submitted on 7/11/2004
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Well, my husband is a wonderful mechanic and unfortunately is now being sued by a young man with a 2.7L Chrysler engine. My husband told him about the sludge following an oil change and referred to him to a reputable dealer to have it fixed and now we are being sued by him stating it was our fault for a "faulty" oil change.......any thoughts or suggestions.....

Answer by NJGreenBudd
Submitted on 7/17/2004
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I also own a dodge intrepid, its a 99 3.2L with 145,000 mi on it, surprised it actually lasted this long, the car ran great(strong and clean) up until a couple days ago when it overheated, stalled and won't start again, looks like the valves are all bent, haven't ripped the motor apart yet, but looks like the timing chain might have broke as well...Unfortunate that there are dealerships and companies out there that are only looking to make a buck and screw over their own customers.

Answer by LoganCorwin
Submitted on 8/4/2004
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I bought a 2000 Dodge Intrepid 2.7 just over 6 months ago. It has 60,000 miles and I still owe 6 thousand USD on it. I was just out of my extended warranty when my engine blew. I just had to roll that $6K into a new car because I couldn't afford the $5K to fix it. I have been told that there is a class action lawsuit against Chrysler regarding the 2.7 engine. Does anybody have any information on how to get info on that? much appreciated. -Logan

Answer by ken
Submitted on 8/7/2004
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hey folks...just got my 2000 Concorde back from the dealer...$1400 poorer. I was told that the timing chain guide broke, thank heavens it didn't throw the chain. The entire interior of the engine was covered with sludge. The dealer recommends I unload the car ASAP. He isn't even willing to stand behind the repair he just did. I was told to change the oil every 500 miles until I sell it. Had to change oil 2 days after I got it back because sludge is dislodging and plugging things up. Chrysler should stand behind these pieces of crap. They have to know there's a problem.

Answer by sarah
Submitted on 8/16/2004
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I have a 99 intrepid with a 3.2L engine and it just blew out on me after about 77K miles. I have been praying each problem will be it's last. I just got it 6 months ago used and i've had it. I wish I would've known before... Now i'm selling it and buying a Honda!

Answer by Eric Wong
Submitted on 8/20/2004
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I heard tapping sound from my 1999 Intrepid, 2.7L engine. The mechanic said it is about time to trade in for a new car before too late. Anyone has any experience how long it will last after hearing that tapping engine noise? I am so busy lately I don't have time to shop for a new car. Am I in real danger having the engine breaking apart in days??? Thanks fro any tips. Trading for a new M300 would be questionable, any ideas here?

Answer by O'Gucci
Submitted on 8/30/2004
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I have also lost 1999 Corvette engine in July due to broken chain. My dealer immediately explained the cause as poor lubricant management of previous owner since they have the record of my maintenance. If this is well-known problems among Chrysler dealer, the manufacturer should take actions to warn customers. From the engineering perspective, since I am engaged in industrial diesel engine development, this is design flaw by not having any warning/ pre-caution devices to fatal failures. I paid 6700 USD for repair since my stay in US is limited for 2 yrs and there were no other ways for me.

Answer by jimbob
Submitted on 10/5/2004
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YEEEEEAP.....just blew mine this morning on my way to class...i heard a lil clankety noise especially at idle when i believe there was more slack then under power. Let it go hoping to make it through my last yr of college, and this morning it went (cold morning as well, but i warmed it up for 10mins before i left). Mine flung off and destroyed the valve cover as well...so in for it now. Problem is im a po'azz college boy..but im a good mechanic and plan on attempting this feat in my buddies garage...worst case scenario..i cant do it and i put it back together..no harm done!