Segment:
Full-size Sedan (Large Car)
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Toyota Avalon, Honda Accord (higher trims), Buick LeSabre
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, spacious interior, focus on comfort and practicality.
Trim Levels:
ES, LXi, and Intrepid R/T (performance-oriented) for various years, offering different levels of features and engine options.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical (2.7L LH SOHC, 3.5L EGJ SOHC), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmissions (42LE, 45RFE)
Chassis:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (ABS/Non-ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical Systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Component Replacement (Alternator, Starter, Water Pump, etc.), Suspension Component Repair, Brake Component Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, DTC Interpretation, Diagnostic Procedures for all Major Systems, Wiring Diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component rebuilds.
2.7L V6 (Eer):
Configuration: SOHC, 24-valve; Displacement: 2700 cc (165 cu in); Bore x Stroke: 83.0 mm x 83.0 mm; Compression Ratio: 9.6:1; Horsepower: 155-160 hp @ 5000-5250 rpm; Torque: 175-180 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.5L V6 (Egj):
Configuration: SOHC, 24-valve; Displacement: 3518 cc (215 cu in); Bore x Stroke: 95.5 mm x 83.0 mm; Compression Ratio: 9.3:1; Horsepower: 204-214 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm; Torque: 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm
Fuel Requirement 2.7L:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Requirement 3.5L:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (premium recommended for optimal performance on some models)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) for 3.5L models, Distributor-based for early 2.7L.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Codes:
42LE (standard on 2.7L), 45RFE (standard on 3.5L)
Shift Modes:
Standard Drive, Economy (E), Performance (P), or AutoStick (manual shifting) on some later models.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) is recommended and often required for these transmissions.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (1998-1999 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (1998-1999 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (varies by year, potential for side airbags improved ratings)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, particularly those with the 3.5L engine.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard. Optional side airbags were available on later models.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Approximately every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations for ATF+4.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically require replacement around 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil 2.7L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil 3.5L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) or equivalent HOAT coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
2.7L Engine:
Known for sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected; potential for head gasket issues on some high-mileage examples.
3.5L Engine:
Generally more robust than the 2.7L, but still benefits from diligent maintenance. Some reports of alternator failures and intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission:
The 42LE and 45RFE are generally reliable, but can experience wear in the torque converter or valve body with high mileage or lack of fluid maintenance.
Electrical:
Common issues can include power window motor failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and intermittent issues with interior lighting.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts are common wear items due to vehicle weight and mileage.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing mainstream and performance-oriented vehicles.
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation of the Dodge Intrepid, introduced for the 1998 model year, significantly redesigned from the first generation.
Styling:
Characterized by its distinctive cab-forward design, aerodynamic lines, and integrated bumper design.
Manufacturing Plant:
Bramalea Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
Production Years:
1998-2004
Initial Reception:
The second-generation Intrepid received mixed reviews upon release, praised for its styling and spaciousness but criticized for some interior materials and the performance of the base 2.7L engine.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable throughout the production run, with some model years rated better than others for reliability. The manual is crucial for addressing common issues.
Compliance:
Meets all applicable U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its respective model years.
