Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2001 Dodge Intrepid
The 2001 Dodge Intrepid has a significant number of engine-related complaints and several recalls, mainly concerning lighting and seat recliner issues. The evidence suggests potential problems but isn't comprehensive. Inspect thoroughly for signs of these issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2001 Dodge Intrepid has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 656 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 #03V035000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/SEAT BACK RECLINING BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #01V273000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FMVSS 201/HEAD PROTECTION NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V366000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FMVSS 225/CHILD SEAT ANCHOR NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 520 complaints
- Steering 37 complaints
- Power Train 32 complaints
- Air Bags 20 complaints
- Electrical System 16 complaints
- Equipment 14 complaints
Of the 656 complaints on file, 22 report a crash and 22 a fire; across all 656 complaints, owners report 17 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent overheating
How to check: Inspect for coolant leaks and radiator condition
Seat back recliner failure
How to check: Test seat recliner function thoroughly
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Knocking or loud tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for stable idle RPM
Red flag: Rough or unstable idle
- 03
Low-speed maneuvers
What to check: Feel for steering responsiveness
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
City driving
What to check: Notice the engine temperature gauge
Red flag: Temperature rising past normal
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth gear shifts
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 06
Braking from speed
What to check: Observe braking response
Red flag: Vibrations or pulling to one side
- 07
Parking and shutdown
What to check: Look for dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Any warning lights illuminated
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine been replaced or rebuilt?
- Are there any current engine issues?
- Have you addressed any recall notices?
- What is the vehicle's accident history?
- Have there been any seat recliner repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records and history
- Recall repairs documentation
- Vehicle title
- Accident report
- Owner's manual
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2001 Dodge Intrepid at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2001 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.