I have a 2001 Intrepid with the 3.2L engine. I am losing coolant somewhere and also using oil at about a half a qt every 1000 miles. The car runs good except as the coolant gets alittle low the heater dont work worth a darn. I suspect the intake gasket has failed. Anyone else seen this problem or have any ideas? Thanks

 

you might have a bad head gasket also, if its bad it could be bad between a water passage and the combustion chamber. cup your hand behind the exhaust when it is running to try to catch some condensation in your palm and smell it. if it smells sweet your coolant is going into the cylinder. to be absolutely sure you can purchase a kit from your local parts store to test the gasses coming out of your radiator for exhaust gasses. the lack of coolant is going to screw up your heater. as far as your oil you could be burning it due to worn out piston rings or valve guides, if it is a high mileage car one of those are likely to be the cause. if it is an external leak DO NOT CLEAN THE ENGINE, it is much easier to find a leak on a dirty engine, the clean spot will be the area you are looking for or lead you to it. hope this helps, and sorry about the lengthy reply, bowtieguy out

 

I had the same problem (I have the same engine) as far as losing oil and it turned out to be the oil pressure switch. Only $90 to have replaced! Good as new now.