1999 Dodge Avenger automatic: Wont shift into drive gear-rpms rev up and do not shift in next gear also alarm system -horn, lights all go on for no reason.

- Flint, MI, USA

I have a 1999 Dodge Avenger. I bought the car in 2004 and I had the heads done on it. The transmission started acting up in 2005 and is still giving me problems. Sometimes it won't change into second until I turn the car off and restart it. The O2 sensors keep going out. The check engine light is always coming on. I am a single parent and cannot afford to keep fixing this car nor can I afford a new car. The brakes keep wearing out. I am having so many problems out this car that I don't know what to do. The shocks and struts are out. The half shaft is messed up again. I need so help with some of this repairs. Chrysler and Dodge knew these cars weren't made right now they need to help those of us who have them.

- Shelby, NC, USA

Have been told that the transmission casing is cracked and leaking transmission oil. This was found during an inspection of the front end, where there was noise when turning steering toward the left. Also, included in defective rim settlement class action matter.

- Flushing, NY, USA

I have a 1999 Dodge Avenger sport (2.5L auto). At 48,000 miles the torque converter failed on my automatic transmission (infamous A604 transmission). Dodge refused a goodwill repair, the car is just out of warranty, and I feel that it is ridiculous for a car that is 3 years old with barely any mileage to require a transmission rebuild. I have seen many people have suffered from similar problems with their A604/41te transmission (look to bbs.asog.net under transmission forum). I also know this transmission has been defective going back to it's introduction in 1989. When is enough enough, and when will Chrysler be held responsible for this? not to mention that I almost died when the limp-home-mode switched on as I was traveling 70 mph on I-95 (the car automatically switched into second gear from fourth, the car behind me almost crashed into the rear of my car, and this caused damage to my engine). I did not get into an accident or cause any fatalities, but I cannot see how this transmission or limp-home-mode is safe. How can they sell a transmission that dies under 50,000 miles?

- Jackson, NJ, USA

Multiple problems with this car since purchase. Unknown engine failure problem (dealership was unable to pinpoint problem), transmission sensors failed, rotors replaced 8 times in 4 years, black tar coming from doors, numerous alignment problems, and the big problem - the seat belt buckles keep failing. Passenger side replaced by dealership under warranty. Driver side now failing as well. Huge safety hazard! dealership says "car not under warranty".

- Troy, IL, USA

Transmission seals failed while driving. Vehicle stopped shifting correctly, just stuck in second gear. Consumer states that the brakes failed and rotors warped at 18000 miles.

- Twinsbury, OH, USA

Transmission failed to shift out of first gear properly and downshifted harshly, to the point I cringed at the sound. Upon replacing original tires local mechanic notified me of a worn wheel bearing at right front being ase certified myself I inspected the part and came to the same conclusion

- Odenton, MD, USA

Transmission would be sluggish when gas pedal is pressed. There are no leaks. Fails to change gears properly. Took to dealer & had diagnostic check, with dye, done. No problem found. Mechanic replaced transmission. Also had brake disc replaced due to excessive wear.

- Chicopee, MA, USA

While going down the road about 45mph vehicle jerks violently. It feels like driver is slamming on the brakes, although driver is not applying the brakes at all. Also, checked transmission fluid, and noticed that there was fragments of metal pieces. Contacted dealer, will have vehicle towed. This is the third time this has happened. The second time it was taken to the dealer, and they replaced transmission on 03-Apr-2000, and now it has to go back to the shop.

- Shermandale, PA, USA

This vehicle has been a costant burden since the day it was drove off the lot. Ross park Dodge claims since they have fixed the problems they have "found" the are not responsible for my loss of time or any inconviences. I was told by the manager that since the problems with this car are cosmetic he intends to do nothing. I recomend no one waste valueable time or money with a Dodge Avenger it is unreliable and truely a nightmare to own. My comment is thank god it is leased! no safety defect listed in the summary.

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA