Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, interior lights).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2000 Dodge Intrepid owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Tl* the contact owns a 2000 Dodge Intrepid. While driving at 55 MPH, there was a burning odor. In addition, the steering wheel made an abnormal noise when turning in both directions and all lights, meters, and gauges on the instrument panel failed to function. The contact also stated that the rear lights failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 135,000.
Engine in 2000 Chrysler Intrepid started tapping noise at 58017km brought to dealer with complaint, told they would not take engine apart to check noise. I told them I had been told that the 2.7 engine had problems with sludge that prevented the oil from circulating properly. They still refused to check engine. At just over 62000 km engine became noisy. Brought it back to dealer who kept the car for two weeks, then told me engine needed to be replaced at a cost of $6500.00 and there would be no warranty coverage or goodwill. I gave them a complete history of maintenance records showing that proper maintenance was done with in the required mileage and time. They have told me that the invoices do not clearly identify my 2000 black Intrepid and that it could of been another car. I only own one 2000 Intrepid. The invoice shows the work the mileage and my name and date. …
I have 2000 Intrepid, the headlights are badly discolored almost as if the lens are melted. I have seen a number of other Dodge vehicles with the same problem, Intrepid, Mini vans etc. This is such a problem that driving without the high beams at night is nearly impossible due to lack of light coming through the defective lens. I also own a 2004 Dodge durango that was resently rolled over, the roads were snow covered. I was traveling 15 MPH max when the durango slide sideways off the road and the back end started to slide over a small embankment and then rolled over, I do not feel that it was steap enough that the durango should have overturned. Luck is no one was hurt.
Had mild tapping sound from engine a few months ago, took vehicle to the mechanic and that is where I learned the reputation of the 2.7 liter engine. He advised that we should look for another vehicle before we became the latest victim. Unfortunately, on the way home from work one afternoon the engine started developing an even more pronounced clattering, knock and vibration; as if it were about to tear itself apart. Pulled over to avoid subjecting engine to even more damage. Had to have it towed home. Will not spend another dollar on this vehicle until Chrysler hands me a check from a lawsuit settlement.
Tl* - the contact stated that in approximately January of 2006 he developed a crusty, foggy film on both head lights of his 2000 Dodge Intrepid. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. The contact stated that this inhibits the amount of light. The dealer said this condition came from the heat on the headlights and they have a process to clean the headlights. The contact stated he would have to pay for the repair and does not feel that this is reasonable. . Updated 2/16/2007 -the light output has been reduced by about 50% of the original output and continues to get worse over time.
2000 Dodge Intrepid. Head lamps. Plastic lens cover is deteriorating and becoming cloudy/translucent. Head light intensity is decreased due to discoloration and fogging. No visible moisture inside lens. Appears to be uv damage to the plastic. Cost per unit is over $300.00. Was told by manufacturer that the vehicle is out of warranty (3 years/36,000 miles) and this is a maintenance item not a safety item. At end of the warranty there was no evidence of this problem. Local dealer said there was nothing they could without direction of manufacturer.
There was no accident. My cars clear plastic headlight covers have been getting more and more yellow through the years. At night I can barely see the street as the yellowed covers substantially decrease the amount of light the headlights can give off. The cost of replacing the covers is prohibitive for me as you need to replace both assembly's completely. This situation is dangerous and could cause an accident. Maybe you can get Chrysler to replace them. I will do the labor but need the new assembly's. Thank you
I have also replaced front passenger side door lock actuator. Now the driver side back lock actuator is going out. I have not fixed the radio, dash lights or dome lights. I am out of money for the time being. I had to refinance and add $4900. To get most of the repairs done. My engine blew due to sludge and I now have a used rebuilt one that will probably do the same thing.
Intermittently the interior lights flashed on and off. When this occurred it obstructed the driver's visibility. Dealership lubricated the headlamp switch controller, but the problem recurred. Dealership indicated that this was a common problem and they were waiting for the manufacturer to send them the repair kit.
When driving at night in fog head light beams projects off a bright light. The light is so bright that it causes the driver to have poor visibility. Ts. Headlight beams project off a bright light. Light beams are reflected up directly in front of vehicle. The light iluminates the fog, and visibility is greatly reduced.
Headlight complaints in other Intrepid years
Frequently asked questions
How common are headlight problems on the 2000 Dodge Intrepid?
NHTSA has 23 complaints about the lights of the 2000 Dodge Intrepid, 2% of the model year's 1,065 complaints. The component named most often is headlights (5 mentions).
Is there a recall for 2000 Dodge Intrepid headlight problems?
No. NHTSA lists no lights recall for the 2000 Dodge Intrepid, though it has 7 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2000 Dodge Intrepid headlight problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 60,000 miles, and 13% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 0 crashes, 1 fire and 0 injuries to lights problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.