SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total for V6)
Engine Management System:
Chrysler's proprietary NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar ECU.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transaxle (42LE)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
None offered for 2002.
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with over-drive.
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4), Chrysler MS-9602
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 201.0 inches
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.8 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.0 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4700-4900 lbs (depending on configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★☆ (4 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4 Stars)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, as per some reports for similar models/years)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player, and optional Infinity premium audio system.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (ATC) systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims (Speed Control).
Instrumentation:
Digital odometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, voltmeter.
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on most trims.
Vehicle Theft Security:
Factory-installed alarm system, immobilizer (Sentry Key) on some models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Long-Life Iridium spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) type coolant, Mopar OAT or equivalent (typically pink/orange).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid failures, ABS module issues, headlight dimmer switch failure, power steering leaks, rear main seal leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (older LH models, less common on facelifted versions), premature wear on suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)
Model Evolution
Generation Timeline:
First generation: 1993-1997. Second generation (LH platform facelift): 1998-2004. The 2002 model belongs to the second generation.
Significant Changes 2002:
Minor styling updates, potential powertrain refinements, and feature packaging adjustments compared to preceding years.
Production
Assembly Location:
DaimlerChrysler's Belvidere, Illinois plant.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards 2002:
Received 4-star NHTSA ratings for front occupants. Specific IIHS Top Safety Pick awards are less common for this specific year but the platform generally performed reasonably well in frontal impacts for its era.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied significantly by year and engine option for the Intrepid, often citing average to below-average reliability for specific components like the transmission and electrical systems.