While backing out of a parking stall, front drivers side wheel lower control arm broke free from engine cradle resulting in total immobilization of vehicle. Upon inspection it was obvious that the mounting bracket which is welded to the engine cradle frame had rusted out causing failure. Similar failures on older models have had NHTSA recalls, see NHTSA campaign id # 99V215000, issued due to loss of power or control resulting in a potentially life threatening condition. It is understandable for wear parts such as brakes, shocks and suspension joints to fail due to use and mileage but frame members should be made solid and the responsibility of the auto manufacturer to ensure long term reliability.

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA

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 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. Next me they told me the invoice numbers were too close together. The work was done at four different garages. Then they told me there was sludge that showed the vehicle was not properly maintained. Then they asked me the brand of oil the garages used as it may have been faulty. End result is that they refuse to change their position in regards to warranty coverage or goodwill repairs and I will have to replace an engine that was bought brand new in May 2001. I am frustrated and do not know where to turn. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

- Barrie, UN, USA

Since I bought this car on October of 1999, I have taken it to the dealer 31 times to fix things. I have been without a car 100 days. I have paid out of pocket $3,137.64. I am now on an extended warranty. I still owe $8,000 on my car. It has 60,000 miles. I have maintained it every 3,000 miles as suggested in the owners manual. I only use 97 octane gas. I am a very cautious driver. I take care of the car but the car has left me stranded in the middle of highways putting my life and the lives of my passengers in danger. I never know when the car is going to break down again and where so I am always under terrible stress. I pray as I drive that I make it to my destination. This car has been a lemon since I bought it. The biggest problem is the engine blowing. My brother in law was driving and I was the passenger on South dixie highway (US1) in South miami when we were at a red light and then started to go when the light turned green and without any warning lights, noises, or anything the car stopped running. It died in the middle lane. We had to push it to the side. It was rush hour and this highway is filled with very aggressive drivers. They were all cursing, beeping, signaling, and driving so close to us as to almost touch us. I was petrified. I thought a car was going to hit us. I paid for the engine repair out of my pocket, because the extended warranty company told the dealer they could not cover it because there was sludge build up. They send an adjustor who reported it to them. The dealer told us to fight it because the sludge was normal for that type of engine. We provided the extended warranty all the receipts for the maintenance that we religiously did about every 3000 miles. We also had another mechanic go in and look at the car. The other mechanic said that these types of engines always had the problem of sludge build up and that it was normal for the engine and that the extended warranty should cover it.

- Miami, FL, USA

Consumer took vehicle to dealership for maintenance. While traveling on highway felt vibration inside of steering wheel.

- Goose Creek, SC, USA

Consumer was in an accident traveling 70mph. Accident damaged right front corner panel, every thing electrical was knocked out, air bags didn't deploy, 2-3 inch crease right underneath left head light. Since accident fuel emissions light has been off and on. Vehicle has been in 5 times since first week in November. Dealer said it was a fuel emissions leak, consumer didn't know how to put on gas cap. After the vehicle was repaired for damages caused by the accident, the ses light came on and the vehicle was serviced four times for the same fuel emissions leaks. Finally, a broken fuel line was found and was fixed.

- Red Bluff, CA, USA

Vehicle pulled to the left while traveling at any given speed. Vehicle has been in dealer's shop on two occasions, and problem still reoccurring.

- Olds, IA, USA