Head-to-head reliability
Dodge Intrepid vs Toyota Camry
How the Dodge Intrepid and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
Dodge Intrepid vs Toyota Camry: The Intrepid averaged 465 complaints per year over 5 years, while the Camry averaged 214.3 over 10 years. The Intrepid had 1,663 engine complaints; the Camry had 395 power train complaints. Both have serious issues, but the Camry's lower annual rate may mean fewer repairs. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Dodge Intrepid or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Dodge Intrepid
The Dodge Intrepid is a full-size sedan that demands careful attention from a used-car buyer. Over five years, owners filed 2,325 complaints, with engine and cooling problems dominating at 1,663 reports. Many complaints describe sudden engine failure, overheating, and stalling, often linked to the 2.7L engine. This pattern suggests that living with an Intrepid can mean unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan with a generally better reliability reputation, but it is not without issues. Over ten years, it accumulated 2,143 complaints, averaging 214.3 per year, which is lower than the Intrepid's annual rate. Power train and brake complaints are common, including transmission grinding and sudden acceleration reports. While the Camry may have fewer problems per year, some reported issues are serious and should be checked.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Dodge Intrepid | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 2,325 | 2,143 Better |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 21 Better | 31 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 84 Better | 181 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 465.0 | 214.3 Better |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 80 Better | 163 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 2 | 1 Better |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
Dodge Intrepid
- 01ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING1,663
- 02POWER TRAIN166
- 03STEERING151
- 04SERVICE BRAKES80
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM80
Owners frequently report cloudy smoke from the tailpipe, oil lights, and sudden overheating that can lead to catastrophic engine failure, especially in the 2.7L engine. This can strand you on the highway and require a full engine replacement.
Complaints include stalling on highways, loss of power, random acceleration, and bucking. Some owners received recall notices for these issues, but problems may persist, making the car unpredictable to drive.
A loud pop from the front end while parking or turning can indicate a steering component failure, potentially leaving you unable to steer. This is a critical safety concern that should be inspected immediately.
Reports describe scraping noises, rear wheel lockup, and unintended acceleration that prevents stopping. These brake failures can lead to crashes, as noted in complaints of vehicles hitting walls.
“I NEVER HAD A MAJOR PROBLEM, EXCEPT CLOUDY SMOKE COMING FROM THE TAILPIPE AND AN OIL. ALL OF A SUDDEN THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON IT BEGAN TO OVER HEAT AND STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSTATE. I HAD IT TOWED TO LANDMARK DODGE, THE MECHANIC SAID IT WAS THE TIMIN…”
“2003 DODGE INTREPID WITH 2.7 L ENGINE- EXPERIENCE SUDDEN AND CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE WHILE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. VERY DANGEROUS THAT THESE ENGINES EXPERIENCE THIS TYPE OF SUDDEN LOSS, AND IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. PUBLIC WEB SITES STATE THIS ENG…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN395
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER342
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES290
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM246
Owners report grinding noises from the transmission, sometimes requiring replacement, and sudden acceleration incidents. These issues can affect drivability and safety, and some are subject to recalls.
Complaints include uncontrollable sudden acceleration and coolant valve bypass problems that trigger warning codes. These can lead to loss of control or engine damage if not addressed.
Some drivers experience a complete loss of brake response, such as when driving downhill, which is extremely dangerous. This suggests potential brake system failures that need immediate attention.
While not detailed in the sample, electrical complaints are among the top categories, often involving warning lights or sensor issues. These can be frustrating and costly to diagnose.
“I turned into a restaurant’s parking lot, found a spot and slowly drove into the lot, I eased off the gas pedal and gently applying the brake as the lot has a slight downward slope. When I reach the chunk (the parking block), I added more force to the brake,…”
“Grinding noise coming from front end upon acceleration. Brought to dealership who confirmed noises coming from transmission. Transmission needs to be replaced per dealer recommendation. Recalls on 2021 Toyota Camry for same issue. Transmissions on backorder a…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
Dodge Intrepid — 21 recalls
The defect: 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…
The risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
The defect: 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…
The risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
The defect: 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…
The risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
The defect: 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…
The risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
Dodge Intrepid or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The Toyota Camry has fewer complaints per year (214.3) compared to the Dodge Intrepid (465.0), indicating a lower frequency of reported issues. However, the Camry still has serious complaints like sudden acceleration and brake loss, so it is not problem-free. In practice, the Camry may require less frequent repairs, but both vehicles need thorough inspection.
Key differences
- The Dodge Intrepid has more than double the annual complaint rate of the Toyota Camry, with engine and cooling issues being the most common.
- Intrepid owners frequently report sudden engine failure and stalling, while Camry complaints include transmission grinding and sudden acceleration.
- The Intrepid has 21 recalls over 5 years, many for headlights, while the Camry has 31 recalls over 10 years, covering air bags, seats, and wheels.
- Crash-related complaints are higher for the Camry (181) than the Intrepid (84), but the Intrepid has more deaths (2 vs. 1) and injuries (80 vs. 163) in the data provided.
- Check for any signs of engine overheating, oil leaks, or cloudy exhaust smoke, which could indicate impending engine failure.
- Test the steering for any popping noises or looseness, especially when turning at low speeds, as this may signal a steering component failure.
- Listen for grinding noises from the transmission during acceleration and test for any delayed or harsh shifting.
- Test the brakes on a downhill slope or in a safe area to ensure they respond immediately and without unusual noises.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report to check for open recalls and past accident damage.
- Have a certified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, and brakes.
- Test drive the vehicle in various conditions, including highway speeds and parking maneuvers, to detect stalling, hesitation, or unusual noises.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and transmission service, to gauge how well the car was cared for.
- Verify that all safety recalls have been addressed by checking the NHTSA website with the VIN.
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific Dodge Intrepid or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Dodge Intrepid vs Toyota Camry
- Dodge Intrepid total complaints
- 2,325
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,143
- Dodge Intrepid total recalls
- 21
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- Dodge Intrepid avg complaints/year
- 465.0
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 214.3
- More reliable overall
- Toyota Camry
- Dodge Intrepid top complaint area
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN