1997 Dodge Avenger Engine cooling Problems

“I own a 1997 Dodge Avenger I bought it brand new it has the 2.0 dohc 4 cyl engine the head gasket is leaking on it and I almost ran it out of oil. I have heard that this is a default head gasket from the manufacture on this type of engine my car has been regularly maintained and has real low mileage since I bought the car brand new miles is (71,000).”

“Recuring problems with brake vibration and fast wear, also with suspension repair, was twice quoted for a full replacement of front suspension. Have not done this yet. Major problems with engine electical and check engine light. Have replaced wires and plugs 2-3 time per year. Replaced engine coil once to fix problem with spark plugs arching and burning up. Problem was solved temporarily. Problem is back 3 months later. Chugging and sputtering.”

“Problem 1: since july '98, I have observed (smelled) noxious fumes -not your typical sulphuric rotten egg smell-when I accelerate,usually above 40mph. The smell is outside the car,but in summer and warm months it's quite overpowering with the windows down. I have taken it in at least 3 times for this problem, the service dept. Says they can't do anything about it-it's normal -I understand some sulphuric smell, but this is not acceptable or normal ! …”

“This should be a recall. I have low miles on my car & their should be no reason why my head gasket needs to be replaced. I have my car serviced for oil changes on a regular basis. I read people's complaints & the amount of people that had to replace their head gasket is riduculous. This should definantely be a re call. I contacted cyrsler but it seems they cannot be bothered. I also found that the Dodge neons have the same problem. I don't understand why crysler does not look into this further. Their are numerous complaints.”

“A leaking head gasket was confirmed by our local Dodge dealership, at which time they volunteered information that inferior headgasket material had been used when the vehicle was manufactured. I asked if it had been recalled and was advised that it had not. I was informed that there was no other relief available, as the warranty had long expired. I obtained a quote for repairs from the dealership and several independent shops. Because of a significant difference in price, the vehicle was not repaired at the Dodge dealership. …”