Positioning:
The Dodge Intrepid served as Dodge's flagship sedan during its production run, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and distinctive styling. This manual targets owners and technicians seeking to maintain or repair this vehicle effectively.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Maxima, offering a distinctly American take on the large sedan segment.
Model Highlights:
Distinctive 'cab-forward' design, spacious interior, availability of powerful V6 engines, and a focus on comfort and performance.
Value:
Enables DIY repairs, cost savings on maintenance, accurate diagnosis, and proper repair procedures, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (PCM/ECM).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, charging system, starting system, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience systems.
Body:
Body repair, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, HVAC system, emission control systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems.
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including specifications and tolerances.
Overhaul:
Component overhaul procedures for various systems.
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures.
Depth:
Expert-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.2L V6 (EAW), 3.5L V6 (EGL).
Horsepower Torque 2 7L:
Approx. 190 hp @ 5600 rpm / 200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Horsepower Torque 3 2L:
Approx. 214 hp @ 6500 rpm / 211 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm.
Horsepower Torque 3 5L:
Approx. 234 hp @ 6400 rpm / 241 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI).
Ignition Type:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil packs.
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically purple or orange. Refer to manual for specific Mopar coolant part numbers (e.g., Mopar OAT - 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula).
Oil Type Capacity 2 7L:
SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate). Capacity: approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter. Verify with manual.
Oil Type Capacity 3 2L 3 5L:
SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate). Capacity: approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter. Verify with manual.
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission.
Availability:
All engines paired with the automatic transmission.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid type 4) is typically specified for later models, but earlier models may use ATF+3. Crucial to verify with manual for specific year and transmission.
Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for fluid change. Full rebuild capacity higher.
Length:
Approx. 200-203 inches (5080-5156 mm).
Width:
Approx. 74 inches (1880 mm).
Height:
Approx. 56-57 inches (1422-1448 mm).
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 104-107 cubic feet (2945-3030 L).
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 16 cubic feet (453 L).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg).
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4-star (1998-1999), 5-star (2000-2001 for driver).
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4-star (1998-1999), 4-star (2000-2001 for passenger).
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base models in early years.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear 3-point seat belts.
Audio System:
Various audio systems including AM/FM stereo, cassette, CD player, and premium Infinity sound systems available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control and automatic climate control (ATC) systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Optional feature on many models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km), especially if towing or driving in severe conditions. Critical to use correct fluid type (ATF+3/ATF+4).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium). Manual will specify exact interval and plug part numbers.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact type.
Engine Coolant Leaks:
Common issues include failing intake manifold gaskets, radiator leaks, and water pump failures, particularly on the 2.7L and 3.2L engines.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Transmission control module (TCM) issues or solenoid failures can lead to hard shifting or failure to engage gears.
Electrical Gremlins:
Faulty body control modules, window regulators, and various sensor failures are reported.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear prematurely, leading to noise and steering looseness.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Especially on V6 engines, exhaust manifolds can crack, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking sounds.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and family cars.
Generation I:
First generation (1993-1997) introduced the cab-forward design and LH platform. Second generation (1998-2004) featured updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and updated powertrains.
Production Years:
1998-2004.
Manufacturing Location:
Bramalea Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
