Summary
The Dodge Intrepid has 10 recalls spanning the 1993-2000 production run, with the most serious on 1998 models where a seat back recliner bolt can break and cause the seat to fall rearward unexpectedly while driving, raising the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
The 1998 model year also has a passenger airbag concern where some airbag module assemblies are missing internal components and will not deploy in a crash, leaving the front passenger without that protection. On 2000 models, the passenger airbag inflator carries an incorrect charge amount, which can affect how the bag deploys in a crash. Also on 2000 models without a sunroof, the B-pillar trim does not meet federal head impact standards, meaning an occupant's head can make harder contact with that pillar in a crash. The 2000 model year additionally has a seatbelt retractor defect on the driver's side where a manufacturing flaw can prevent the belt from locking properly in a frontal crash, reducing the restraint it provides. On non-anti-lock brake equipped 2000 models, a bent snap ring inside the brake master cylinder can keep the brakes in a partially applied state, causing the brakes to overheat and fade and extending the distance needed to stop. Going back to 1999, the shoulder belt height adjuster is secured with a bolt that may not hold under crash forces, allowing the belt anchor to give way when it is needed most.
On 1993 models, three separate issues exist. The floor shifter park interlock can fail, either allowing the shifter to move out of park with the key removed or allowing the key to be pulled out before the transmission is fully in park, both of which can cause the vehicle to roll away. Also on 1993 models with the 3.3-liter engine, fuel injector rail O-rings can deteriorate and leak fuel into the engine compartment, creating a fire risk near ignition sources. The 1993 model also has front suspension tension strut washers that can crack and fall away, producing a clunking sound under braking and affecting suspension integrity.
