1992 DODGE STEALTH

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Coolant loss with no visible leaks, White smoke from exhaust, Overheating under boost, Oil contamination in coolant reservoir, Rough idle when warm

Fix: Transverse V6 layout makes this a nightmare job — 18-24 hours labor to pull heads due to tight engine bay. Often find warped heads requiring machining or replacement. Timing belt, water pump, and all coolant hoses should be done simultaneously since you're already in there. Many shops quote head gasket jobs then discover cracked heads once removed.

Estimated cost: $3,500-6,500

Typical onset: 90,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Delayed engagement into gear, Slipping between 2nd and 3rd, Shuddering on acceleration, Burnt transmission fluid smell, Check engine light with transmission codes

Fix: The 4-speed auto is weak behind these engines, especially turbo variants. Oil cooler lines rust and contaminate fluid, accelerating wear. Rebuild runs 12-16 hours, but most techs recommend replacement with low-mileage junkyard unit (8-10 hours swap). External oil cooler upgrade essential during any trans work to prevent repeat failure.

Estimated cost: $2,200-4,800

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Grinding or whining from center of car, Fluid leaking at front of transmission, Binding sensation in tight turns, AWD system warning light, Vibration at highway speeds

Fix: Transfer case shares fluid with transmission and fails from neglected service or cooler line contamination. Requires transmission removal to access — 10-14 hours labor. Rebuilt units available but core availability is getting scarce. This was subject to a recall for propshaft issues that can damage the transfer case if not addressed.

Estimated cost: $2,800-4,200

Symptoms: Front spoiler stuck in up or down position, One headlight won't pop up, Clicking sound from headlight motors with no movement, Active aero ECU codes, Rear spoiler won't retract

Fix: Motors and controllers for pop-up headlights and active aero wear out from age and use. Headlight motors are 2-3 hours per side if you replace the whole assembly; rebuilding is possible but time-consuming. Active aero system is dealer-only diagnostics nightmare — many owners disable it entirely. OEM parts discontinued, aftermarket quality is hit-or-miss.

Estimated cost: $400-1,200

Symptoms: Soft brake pedal, Visible rust perforation on lines under car, Fuel smell in cabin or under hood, Brake fluid loss, Fuel pressure drop

Fix: Northeast and Midwest cars develop serious rust in steel brake and fuel lines, especially along frame rails and rear subframe. This was recalled for brake lines but many weren't fixed. Complete brake line replacement is 6-8 hours, fuel lines 4-6 hours. Pre-bent line kits scarce — most jobs require custom flaring. Cannot pass inspection with corroded lines in most states.

Estimated cost: $800-1,800

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Limp mode with reduced power, Overboost or underboost codes, Turbo whine changes pitch unexpectedly, Check engine light, Boost gauge readings erratic or stuck

Fix: Twin turbo models have miles of vacuum lines that harden and crack with age. Boost control solenoids fail or get clogged. Chasing vacuum leaks is 3-6 hours minimum because everything is buried. Smart shops replace ALL vacuum lines during any turbo work — OEM lines are discontinued, use high-temp silicone replacements. Solenoids are $150-300 each, often both need replacement.

Estimated cost: $600-1,400

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking when shifting into gear, Excessive vibration at idle, Engine movement visible when revving, Transmission tunnel heat and noise, Shifter vibration in manual cars

Fix: Hydraulic engine mounts collapse and the heavy transverse V6 moves around excessively. Front mount is 2 hours, rear is nightmare at 4-5 hours due to access. Transmission mount another 3 hours. Most techs quote all three as a package deal since labor overlaps — 7-9 hours total. Aftermarket solid mounts reduce lifespan but improve performance, not recommended for street cars.

Estimated cost: $800-1,600