I'm looking into a 2002 Stratus with the 2.7L engine. It only has 88,000 miles on it and has rear disk brakes and looks to be in great shape. It's from a used car dealer and not a private party. He is asking $4,000 which is down from $5,000 he was asking a couple weeks ago. After some on line research it appears these engines were known for sludge issues and water pumps going out. I'm just wondering if anyone has some advice on things to look for or perhaps to run away fast! I've been looking at this vintage of Stratus because of the prices and lower insurance and licensing fees than newer cars otherwise I would like a new Avenger R/T or Chrysler 200. Thanks for any advice!

I had an 03 intrepid I bought in late 02. It had the 2.7. No problem with it. Sold it with 140,000 miles in 2011. My friend bought it for his daughter. She drove it for over a year and got rear ended and totaled. The only issue he had was he had to replace the camshaft sensor(s). Still had the factory battery! I had no issues with engine or trans. My friends dad is a tech at Chrysler he advised me to change oil frequently. Lew.

Thanks! Yea, I did read to change the oil often and even use synthetic. One thread I found seemed to indicate the majority of the sludge issues were taken care of in the 2001 model year but with my luck I'd get one that still has the issue!

We have had good luck with the Status' that we have sold. And the 2.4 4 banger is a solid engine, too. But the 2.7 is another thing altogether. I would not recommend one, it is just too risky.

Everyone has an opinion as to what causes the problems that the 2.7s have experienced. And that is part of the problem. There does not seem to be a sure fire way to head off the issues that plague them.

I have seen 2.7s that have ton of miles on them and are still running fine. But then we have all seen low mileage ones knocking and smoking.

No two ways about it, if you buy one, you are gambling.

So, are you feeling lucky?

Use synthetic oil and keep a close eye on the rad coolant level{for the waterpump issue if it arises}} and you'll be fine.. I've had this 2.7 for years with no issues...

We've had ours for nearly three years (2002 Sebring Limited convertible) and about 22,000 of the 72,000 miles on it. Had a small oil leak that I had to fix (timing cover) and found a bad engine side motor mount. I don't know if they fixed the design while they were on back order or not...Like any old car there may be some things that need attention, but I'd buy another.

If it is clean inside the engine it is worth buying.Change the water pump and timing belt immediately even if it is not leaking.Run the best full synthetic oil you can afford.The water pump is the main problem they seep,then leak and the cats torch the oil/water mix until the engine is destroyed.Repeat every 80 to 90K.

Call 50 junk yards and try to find an engine.Ill bet if you find one good one you are lucky.That had to be the biggest POS that they made.That and nothing is cheap to fix on them.I hated to see them come in the shop.Rocky

Thanks for all the responses! Seems pretty split as to weather it's worth buying or not. The car is super clean but it's a dealer so they are going to shine it up to look pretty for a sale. The low miles are good but that 80,000 mark seems to be when they start having issues so it could be on the brink of disaster or it could be a great deal. I have some more thinking to do. First I have to check on a small loan since I don't have the money saved so that will have a lot to do with any decision I make.

Last night I was looking at Avengers in my area and there are quit a few 2008 ones with less than 100,000 for around $9,000. If the old Neon keeps going I may wait until next year and look more at that route. I do like the R/T Avengers!

I appreciate all the commits and look forward to more if anyone else wants to share!

My '04 has 145, 000+ on it with a V6. Bought it with 77, 000 miles. No problems here. Might just be a lucky one

JUNK.

This former dealer tech says run. like. hell.

Thanks again guys! I appreciate all the advice. I think for now I'll keep looking around and see what else comes up. I found another Stratus in the area that's a couple years newer with similar mileage and a 2.4 in it. Might not be as quick running around but I shouldn't have to worry about sludge! I'm going to keep an eye on those Avengers also. I really do like 'em.