Lions and Tigers and a 99 Intrepid, oh my
I have a 99 Intrepid (75,000 miles). Bought it new in mid-99. I love my car. However, it loves to drive me insane. I'm sure you already know about the bad power window motors. I do. Seven different times. You probably know all about the the bad A/C systems. Dodge did. After several letters back and forth, they finally agreed to replace the system for 1/2 of parts and labor. You having any problems with the dash lights intensifying on their own? Kind of like the car is possessed. I pat the dashboard, tell the car everything is fine and then they return to normal.
Actually, I've got two on-going problems at this time and hoping someone can assist me. I've been to the dealer so often that just the thought of what the repair bill will be makes me run into my bedroom, turn out the light and hide under the bed.
Anyway, the A/C blower only operates on Hi speed. I know that a previous post dealt with this problem and the solution is most likely a "thermal protection device in the resistor module". Question I have is what is the part number, is it an easily obtainable part (like from NAPA or otherwise reputable Auto Parts retailer) and where exactly is this mysterious module located?
Question 2 is a bit more complicated. My brakes work. Kind of. They will stop the car, but not on a dime. More like 6 cents. They sloooow the car to a stop. If someone happens to stop short in front of me at, I'll probably hit them. Yeah, I know, keep a lengthy following distance. The front tires will not lock up tight to bring the car to a screetching, leave a solid patch of rubber on the ground, halt. (No they are not ABS)
Pads are in excellent condition, rotors were cut prior to installation and perfect. No fluid leakage from fittings or master cylinder (still have the original brake fluid in the car).
Brakes have been bled but did not help.
Auto repair shop says the power assist unit is probably bad. Of course the unit is buried rather deep and the cost is at least $600 (ball park figure - they'll check it out then let me know the real price).
I think I hear a vacuum leak under the hood, but thats really hard to tell. I've checked whatever vacuum hose I can find and nothing appears to be leaking. There appears to be a vacuum leak at the rubber boot around the brake pedal where it comes in from the firewall. If I crimp it in one area with my fingers, the noise appears to go away until I release it. Then it comes right back.
Any ideas, hints, pointers?
Trading it in or selling it is not an option. Like I said, I really like my car and want to keep it for many more years.
Thanks for any assistance,
cHarley
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