Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1996 Dodge Intrepid
The 1996 Dodge Intrepid has two recalls, concerning the transmission and fuel injection system, and 505 NHTSA complaints, primarily about steering, fuel system, and engine issues. While some issues are common, the overall reliability is uncertain. Carefully inspect for potential problems.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1996 Dodge Intrepid has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 505 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #04V021000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FLOOR SHIFT IGNITION-PARK INTERLOC NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #98V184000 CHRYSLER/FUEL LEAKAGE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 146 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 76 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 76 complaints
- Power Train 41 complaints
- Suspension 41 complaints
- Air Bags 34 complaints
Of the 505 complaints on file, 32 report a crash and 22 a fire; across all 505 complaints, owners report 23 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent failures
How to check: Test steering for smooth operation and responsiveness.
Fuel leaks
How to check: Inspect fuel rail for leaks and strong smell of gasoline.
Interlock failure
How to check: Ensure shifter locks in park; key must only be removable in park.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises when starting.
Red flag: Persistent knocking sound
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for smooth idle without vibrations.
Red flag: Rough idling or stalling
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Ensure steering is smooth and responsive.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or noises
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Test for smooth acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Stuttering or power loss
- 05
Braking from 60 mph
What to check: Evaluate for smooth, straight-line braking.
Red flag: Vibrations or pulling to one side
- 06
Parking
What to check: Verify gear shifter locks in park position.
Red flag: Shifter moves freely from park
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel system been inspected or repaired?
- Have there been any issues with the steering?
- Has the transmission interlock been addressed?
- Any recurring engine problems encountered?
- What is the vehicle's maintenance history?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle repair history
- Proof of recall repairs
- Current vehicle inspection report
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1996 Dodge Intrepid at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 1996 Dodge Intrepid? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.