Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1998 Dodge Intrepid
The 1998 Dodge Intrepid has a notable number of engine-related complaints but relatively fewer for other components. Five recalls, including issues with lighting, transmission linkage, seat recliners, and airbags, should prompt careful inspection. While the engine complaints are significant, other areas may pose less risk.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1998 Dodge Intrepid has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 375 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09E025000 FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E012000 FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V021000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FLOOR SHIFT IGNITION-PARK INTERLOC NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V035000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/SEAT BACK RECLINING BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #98V049000 CHRYSLER/PASSENGER AIR BAG NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 197 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 38 complaints
- Power Train 34 complaints
- Electrical System 32 complaints
- Steering 29 complaints
- Visibility 26 complaints
Of the 375 complaints on file, 30 report a crash and 12 a fire; across all 375 complaints, owners report 25 injuries and 5 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Cooling system failures
How to check: Inspect for leaks or overheating signs.
Interlock failure allows shift without key
How to check: Check if shifter moves out of park with key removed.
Missing airbag components
How to check: Verify airbag deployment and recall completion.
Seat recliner bolt breakage
How to check: Test seat recline function for stability.
Electrical malfunctions
How to check: Look for intermittent power issues or faults.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for unusual noises at startup.
Red flag: Knocking or tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe idle stability and RPM consistency.
Red flag: Rough or fluctuating idle
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Feel for hesitation or rough shifts.
Red flag: Lag or hard shifts
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test maneuverability and brake response.
Red flag: Unresponsive steering or brakes
- 05
Highway cruising
What to check: Listen for engine struggles or noise.
Red flag: Unusual engine vibration
- 06
After highway drive
What to check: Ensure smooth deceleration and low-speed control.
Red flag: Jerky or unstable deceleration
- 07
Park and inspect
What to check: Check for leaks or burning smells.
Red flag: Oil or coolant leaks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine cooling system been serviced?
- Were all recalls completed by a dealer?
- Have there been any transmission issues?
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Are there any known electrical problems?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service records
- Recall completion receipts
- Title status and history
- Previous ownership history
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1998 Dodge Intrepid at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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