The Good
The 2003 Dodge Intrepid offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. Its sleek, cab-forward design provided a distinctive look. Performance was adequate for daily driving. It was generally considered a good value for its size and features at the time, attracting budget-conscious shoppers. Emotionally, the Intrepid offered a feeling of space and comfort.
The Bad
The 2003 Dodge Intrepid had some known weaknesses. Common issues included transmission problems, particularly with higher mileage. Electrical issues and premature water pump failure were also reported. Some owners experienced problems with the air conditioning system. Rust could be a concern in areas with harsh winters.
2003 Dodge Intrepid: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L V6: Standard on SE and ES
- 3.5L V6: Standard on SXT, Optional on ES
- Horsepower:
- 2.7L V6: 200 hp
- 3.5L V6: 234 hp - 244 hp (depending on year/tune)
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.7L V6: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 3.5L V6: 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.7L V6: Around 9.5 seconds
- 3.5L V6: Around 8.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- SE: Base model, cloth seats, power windows and locks, air conditioning, AM/FM radio with cassette player.
- ES: Upgraded cloth seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, upgraded audio system.
- SXT: Leather seats, premium audio system, automatic climate control, chrome accents, sometimes included sunroof options. Typically the better equipped model for comfort and styling.
2003 Dodge Intrepid Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2003 |
Make | Dodge |
Model | Intrepid |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Canada |
Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
Doors | - |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.7 L 6-Cyl. |
Engine Size | 2.7L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Dodge Intrepid Have?
Rust could be a significant issue in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage and body panels carefully. There have been recalls related to airbag issues and potential fuel leaks in earlier Intrepid models. While the 2003 may not have been directly affected by all recalls, it's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the transmission, cooling system, and electrical components. Regular maintenance and proactive repairs are crucial to extending the vehicle's lifespan.
How long will the 2003 Dodge Intrepid last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional features included remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, and cruise control. Higher trims like the SXT offered leather seats, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS were generally acceptable for its time, but not exceptional. Remember safety standards have increased significantly since 2003, so it won't offer the same level of protection as a modern vehicle. Driver and passenger front airbags were standard, and side airbags were not available. The Intrepid was designed before many of today's advanced safety features were common. The basic entertainment system consisted of an AM/FM radio and, optionally, a CD player. Overall the technology was minimal, focusing more on basic functionality than advanced features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Dodge Intrepid Prices and Market Value
2003 Dodge Intrepid Cost of Ownership
2003 Dodge Intrepid Fuel Efficiency
2003 Dodge Intrepid Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Dodge Intrepid Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting
Exterior Lighting:headlights
2003 Dodge Intrepid Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Dodge Intrepid Compare to Other Sedan?
The Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala offered similar levels of space and affordability, but the Impala generally had a better reputation for reliability. For someone prioritizing reliability and longevity, a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord from the same era would be a better choice, albeit at a potentially higher initial cost. If spaciousness and affordability are the primary concerns, and you're willing to accept the risk of potential repairs, the Intrepid could be considered. However, due to age and reliability concerns, exploring alternatives is generally recommended.
Ranks #2193 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
2193 | 2003 Dodge Intrepid | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Dodge Intrepid a Good Sedan?
Raff21 on June 19, 2020
Great car and few issues I foundMy dad owned one as well and ran well over 200k miles, very reliable, problem was it died randomly... right after I asked my dad when he was going to get a new car, it stopped running two minutes later. Mine continues to work well at about 120k miles, just has few problems with overheating as well as lack of acceleration power but overall great first car
Minnesota Mel on December 4, 2019
Love This Greatly Designed Vehicle, KudoesThe first thing I notice was the great design & style, leg room front & back the sweet ride, & Quality throughout! after 10 years of driving this Gem we only had to replace the rubber trim around the door area, 1 tune-up & break pads, If I ever had a vehicle that I could call "Satisfaction" this would be it!
Bee on November 14, 2018
Simple car that will you get you where you need toThis car has leather interior which was very nice it has gotten me places as far as to Hemet and has been reliable I love the sun roof
Carolajane on June 17, 2018
I just financed the car so far its been reliableI recently financed the car and so far it has been a blessing. It is comfortable, runs well, and has air conditioning for the summer.
deeder on February 26, 2014
stay away from any intrepid fo matter what yearExterior 3.0
Jokermx on September 14, 2011
2 and 1/2 year and no issues so far.I bouth my intrepid 2 and a 1/2 years ago with 106 k now it has 128 k and I've never been with a mechanic. I think it's a great family car.
NikoMackey on March 17, 2011
A Good First CarAlthough I have some gripes with the performance, I am impressed at how well such a big car handles. I'm not a big fan of the powertrain; the 2.7 liter is weak and it takes a while for the car to register full-throttle. Every once in a while, my transmission takes extra rpms to change into second gear, almost feeling like it is about to stall. The steering is lazy too, making such a large car difficult to park and maneuver in parking lots. There are, of course, some pros to the hangling. The steering wheel offers great feedback, which is important for such a heavy front-wheel driver; when the front tires slip, I notice instantly. Although the handling may be garbage on a much smaller car, it feels feline-like on this behemoth. The Intrepid does handles like a lazy mid-size sedan, which is great considering its size. On the roads, I am quite confident behind the wheel, as long as I drive it like the full-size sedan that it is. Although the steering could be quicker, the ride height is low and the long wheelbase keeps the car planted. The interior is enormous. Three adults can sit comfortably in the back, despite the middle-seats obvious faults. The trunk is more than spacious, offering plenty of cargo room. I am not a big fan of the front seats, which do not offer lumbar support, which is almost necessary for someone like me. Another complaint is that I can't quite see all the in front of the hood, making parking guesswork. This car is great for traveling or people-hauling, as long as the driver is content with the seating. For city driving, much effort is needed. Although the car is not perfect, it is a good first car as long as gas is not a problem. As a young driver, I have the confidence and potential to push the car to its limits to gain precious experience in maneuvering such a large and lazy car. Driving the Intrepid leaves me more prepared for large or bad handling cars in the future as well as a pre-determined mastery of smaller and nimbler cars.
Evora7 on February 8, 2011
Great car minus poor gas mileage.Bought my 2003 Intrepid Se second hand. Has the 2.7L V6 Auto/OD. Doesn't run too bad - purchased with 104K mi on it, has 115K now. Dependable, but I'd definately look into purchasing an engine block heater .... cold starts are miserable. Solid running vehicle, haven't had any trouble with it so far - well apart from poor gas mileage; runs about 17/23.
car_fan7 on December 22, 2010
BAD ENGINEWhoever doesn't know that the Dodge Intrepid is a bad car, you don't know cars. These cars are really bad, the engine anyway, but if the engine doesn't work, why buy it. The engine will make a horrible knocking sound on the header. If you want a good running car, this isn't it. If you like the styling and are willing to replace the engine, go ahead.
daves on January 12, 2010
Nearly 140,000 miles and still going strong.This car has impressed me with it's overall quality design and reliability. It's a car that just seems to do everything well and almost never complains. It is extremely roomy yet handles fantastic in hard corners. Mine has the 3.5 liter engine so its got plenty of power and still delivers good gas mileage. My only criticism of this car is that the engine is a bit noisy under hard acceleration and road noise is not as well managed as I'd prefer, but otherwise a great car and a real sleeper used car value.