🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Intrepid

Year:

2003

Trim Levels Covered:

ES, SE, SXT

Chassis Code:

LH

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2003 Dodge Intrepid was positioned as a full-size sedan in the North American market, competing with established domestic and import rivals. It aimed to offer a blend of comfort, performance, and distinctive styling within its segment.

Competitive Analysis:

Key competitors included the Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, and Honda Accord. The Intrepid often appealed to buyers seeking American-style comfort and V6 power, often at a competitive price point.

Key Features:

Distinctive cab-forward design, spacious interior, available powerful V6 engines, comfortable ride, wide range of standard and optional features for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, HVAC, Suspension, Brakes, Powertrain, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications, Maintenance

Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (3.5L High Output V6, 2.7L V6), Automatic Transmission (42LE), Drivetrain, Steering, Suspension (Front/Rear), Brakes (ABS), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including Powertrain Control Module - PCM, Body Control Module - BCM, lighting, accessories), Climate Control (HVAC), Body & Frame, Interior Components, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Removal & Installation, Component Repair & Overhaul, Engine Tune-Up, Brake System Service, Suspension Alignment & Repair, Electrical System Diagnostics, HVAC System Servicing, Body Panel Repair, Fluid Level Checks & Replacements, Torque Specifications, Wiring Harness Repair, OBD-II Diagnostics

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to in-depth engine and transmission diagnostics and rebuild procedures. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts for advanced troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear reproduction of diagrams, schematics, and text when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.5L (3497cc) SOHC V6 (EGA)

Engine Variants:

2.7L (2736cc) DOHC V6 (ECL)

Horsepower 3 5L:

234 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 3 5L:

241 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 2 7L:

200 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque 2 7L:

192 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Packs

Compression Ratio 3 5L:

9.7:1

Compression Ratio 2 7L:

9.6:1

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

Transmission Features:

Includes Electronic Pressure Control (EPC) for smoother shifts, driver-selectable modes (e.g., 'Normal', 'Performance/Overdrive Off').

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 US quarts (9.0 Liters) for a fluid and filter change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

200.0 inches (5080 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

56.8 inches (1443 mm)

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2870 mm)

Front Headroom:

39.6 inches (1006 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.7 inches (958 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.3 inches (1074 mm)

Rear Legroom:

37.4 inches (950 mm)

Trunk Volume:

16.1 cubic feet (456 L)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg), depending on engine and trim.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4700-4900 lbs (2132-2223 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (2003)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (2003)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

4 stars (2003)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4 stars (2003)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims)

Passive Features:

Front airbags, Side-curtain airbags (optional), Pretensioners for front seatbelts, Crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Available CD player, AM/FM radio. Higher trims may have premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, available steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; primarily analog systems. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports as standard.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlamps, available fog lamps.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil, with filter replacement.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace at approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs. Refer to manual for exact type and gap.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Severe service may require more frequent changes.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler/Dodge/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent meeting MS-9769

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Chrysler/Dodge/Mopar Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Transmission issues (specifically the 42LE, including solenoid failures, torque converter shudder), cooling system problems (radiator leaks, fan clutch issues), EGR valve clogging, headliner sagging, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, and ABS sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history in the American automotive market, known for performance-oriented vehicles and distinctive styling.

Model Evolution:

The Intrepid was introduced in 1993 as part of Chrysler's 'LH' platform, characterized by its cab-forward design. The 2003 model is part of the second generation (1998-2004), which featured updated styling, improved chassis, and powertrain enhancements. The 2003 model year saw minor revisions, including potential new features or packages.

Production Years:

1993-2004

Assembly Location:

Brampton Assembly, Brampton, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2003 model year may vary, the Intrepid platform historically received mention in various automotive reviews for its comfort and value proposition within its segment.