I have a 1995 Dodge Intrepid. Until 4 months ago, it never had a problem, only did routine maintenance and that was constantly done. It has a new transmission and radiator (under extended warranty), and new starter, alternator, and battery.

Four months ago, the car started to act up. First, I noticed a "burnt oil or anti-freeze" smell. I took it to my mechanic, who I have had for more than 15 years. He couldn't find any leaks or problems and reminded me that all the hoses and accessories were replace a year before. He said that he saw nothing dripping or building up anywhere. A week later, I would drive it somewhere, get out and do whatever it was I needed to do, go back and it wouldn't start. Everything sounds normal, like it wants to start, but doesn't. If I wait 30-90 minutes and try again, it will start right up and a check engine light would come on, but go back off within a few minutes.

A month later things got worse. It started to die while driving. I would be in the car for less than 10 miles and all the lights on the dash would "flash" and the car would die. It takes between 2-3 hours before getting it to restart when this happens.

Since then, I can't go 1 mile without it dying or not start again. As a matter-of-fact, if I leave it idling in my driveway, it will die with 2-4 minutes. I have taken it to my shop 4 times and 2 other ones trying to find out what is wrong.

They all say that since the "check engine" light only flashes and then goes off, the computer can't catch the problem. Sometimes they think it is the fuel pump or fuel lines; sometimes they think it is electrical; most of the time they just have NO IDEA WHAT IS WRONG!