🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Intrepid

Year:

1997

Market Segment:

Full-size Sedan

Platform Code:

LH Platform

Body Style:

4-door Sedan

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size sedan, competing with domestic and import rivals in the mid-to-late 1990s.

Key Competitors:

Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Avalon, Buick LeSabre, and Mercury Grand Marquis.

Design Philosophy:

The Intrepid was a significant departure for Dodge, showcasing a more aerodynamic and modern design language, a focus on interior space, and a premium feel for its class.

Lh Platform Advantage:

Built on Chrysler's LH platform, shared with the Chrysler Concorde and LHS, it offered a refined front-wheel-drive platform with good handling characteristics for its size.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Body And Frame:

Yes

Interior:

Yes

Exterior:

Yes

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Yes

Emissions Control:

Yes

Maintenance Schedules:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (Printable)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Management:

Comprehensive coverage of engine control module (ECM) operation, sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control systems (e.g., EGR, O2 sensors).

Chassis Systems:

Detailed information on brake system components (ABS, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors), power steering system (pump, rack and pinion), suspension components (shocks, struts, control arms, bushings), and wheel alignment procedures.

Drivetrain:

In-depth coverage of the automatic transmission (e.g., 42LE), including service procedures, component identification, fluid specifications, shift control, torque converter, and drive axles.

Electrical And Electronics:

Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical architecture, including battery, charging system, starter, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, and diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Body And Interior:

Covers body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat adjustments, dashboard removal, HVAC system operation, and climate control.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and brake pad inspections.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and system malfunctions, often referencing DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul, including engine mechanical repairs, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, and bodywork.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, bearing tolerances, and alignment angles.

Depth:

Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text.

Readability:

Optimized for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

ECL (3.3L V6 OHV)

Displacement:

3.3 Liters (201.3 cubic inches)

Configuration:

90-degree V6, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Horsepower:

155 hp @ 4850 rpm

Torque:

190 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 Octane Recommended)

Engine Code Optional:

EGJ (3.5L V6 SOHC)

Displacement Optional:

3.5 Liters (214.6 cubic inches)

Horsepower Optional:

214 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Optional:

216 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42LE (4-Speed Automatic)

Transmission Control:

Electronic control with lock-up torque converter.

Optional Transmission:

N/A (42LE was standard across most models in 1997)

Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Specification)

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 quarts (8.9 liters) for a complete refill, consult manual for exact procedure and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

201.0 inches

Width:

74.0 inches

Height:

56.8 inches

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches

Front Track:

62.1 inches

Rear Track:

61.5 inches

Passenger Volume:

104.4 cubic feet

Trunk Volume:

16.7 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500 - 3700 lbs (depending on engine and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (1997 data)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (1997 data)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Optional (TCS) on some configurations.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system.

OBD Ii Standard:

Compliant with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) standards, enabling the use of modern scan tools for diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, using synthetic blend oil. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Check fluid level every oil change. Replace fluid and filter at 60,000-100,000 mile intervals, or as per manual recommendations.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30. Capacity: 4.5 quarts with filter.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Intake Manifold Gaskets:

Potential for coolant leaks and overheating due to degradation of intake manifold gaskets (especially on the 3.5L engine).

Transmission Hard Shifting:

The 42LE transmission can sometimes develop hard shifting or delayed engagement, often related to fluid condition, solenoid issues, or control module problems.

Idle Control Valve:

Stalling or rough idling can occur due to a dirty or failing Idle Air Control (IAC) valve.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can be a weak point, leading to windows failing to operate.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles, expanding into various segments including sedans.

First Generation Start:

The Dodge Intrepid was introduced for the 1993 model year as part of Chrysler's revolutionary 'cab-forward' LH platform cars.

1997 Update:

The 1997 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh for the first-generation Intrepid, often featuring minor styling updates, improved features, and potential powertrain refinements.

Manufacturing Plant:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada (primarily).

Production Years First Gen:

1993-1997

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Internal Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 model are not prominently cited, the LH platform vehicles generally received praise for their innovative design and value proposition upon introduction.