According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1996 Dodge Intrepid has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure with 350 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1993-2004 Dodge Intrepid, the 42LE (1993-1997) and 42RLE (1998-2004) 4-speed automatic transmissions in the Intrepid are prone to premature failure, including solenoid pack issues, torque converter lockup failure, and internal clutch pack wear. The transmission often develops harsh shifting, slipping, and eventually limp mode. The solenoid pack is the most common failure point and is accessible through the oil pan without removing the transmission. Late model 42RLE units are somewhat improved but still problematic.
Scan the TCM/PCM for transmission-specific codes (common ones point to the solenoid pack, input/output speed sensors, or torque converter clutch performance), then verify fluid condition and line pressure before condemning the unit. If the transmission has harsh shifts, limp mode, or lockup shudder with no major metal debris in the pan, replace the solenoid pack/filter, service the transmission with the correct ATF+4 fluid, and inspect the valve body and wiring; this repair typically runs about $400-$900. If slipping persists, the fluid is burnt, or clutch material/metal is found in the pan, the transmission usually needs a full rebuild or quality remanufactured replacement with updated internal components and torque converter, typically costing $2,000-$3,500 installed.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 350+ owners who fixed this issue
High Confidence350 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 1993-2004 Dodge Intrepid, the 42LE (A606) automatic transmission solenoid pack develops electrical failures causing harsh shifts, stuck in gear, or limp mode (locked in 2nd gear). The solenoid pack is an all-in-one unit that must be replaced as an assembly.
Replace the solenoid pack assembly and transmission filter. Flush the transmission fluid. Updated solenoid packs from Mopar address the earlier design weaknesses.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
⚠️NHTSA Recalls9 recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Campaign #09E02500011/05/2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Campaign #09E01200007/04/2009
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.
Campaign #03V03500005/02/2003
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES (NON-SUNROOF ONLY) FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT."
Campaign #01V27300002/08/2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: NON-ABS EQUIPPED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER PISTON RETAINER SNAP RING MAY HAVE BEEN BENT INWARD DURING THE ASSEMBLY PROCESS. THE MASTER CYLINDER PISTON MAY BE IN A "BRAKE APPLIED" POSITION DUE TO THE DAMAGED PISTON RETAINER SNAP RING. WHEN THE PISTON IS IN THE APPLIED POSITION, THE FLUID COMPENSATION PORTS ARE CLOSED WHICH RESULTS IN A BRAKE DRAG CONDITION.
According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1996-1996 Dodge Intrepid has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure, 42LE Transmission Solenoid Pack Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Intrepid reliable?
The 1996-1996 Dodge Intrepid has 2 known issues documented across 350+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Intrepid problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Intrepid issues range from $200 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $200-$3,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1993-2004 Dodge Intrepid 42LE/42RLE Automatic Transmission Failure?
The 42LE (1993-1997) and 42RLE (1998-2004) 4-speed automatic transmissions in the Intrepid are prone to premature failure, including solenoid pack issues, torque converter lockup failure, and internal clutch pack wear. The transmission often develops harsh shifting, slipping, and… Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1993-2004 Dodge Intrepid 42LE Transmission Solenoid Pack Failure?
The 42LE (A606) automatic transmission solenoid pack develops electrical failures causing harsh shifts, stuck in gear, or limp mode (locked in 2nd gear). The solenoid pack is an all-in-one unit that must be replaced as an assembly. Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
