Blown Head Gasket problems of the 1996 Dodge Stratus

Currently own a 1996 Dodge Stratus 4 cylinder, and it is sitting in my driveway and I am unable to use it, as the head gasket blew out of it, and will cost over $1500 do replace(and so I hear even if you do replace it, the head gasket will blow again shortly after due to the improper design of the engine). . This is so well known a problem, and I am disgusted to think that with our family being lifetime Dodge/Chrysler people, the company would ignore safety and allow this problem to continue in later models. What is it going to take to get some help here!!!! I am a poor mom of two children, one disabled, and thought that I was makng a good purchase with the Stratus. I currently cannot afford to have the vehicle fixed, and have been unable to get my disabled child to the doctor as I do not have reliable transportation. . . . . . This is pathetic! please someone help!.

Head gasket blewout between two cylinders. Oil was leaking from between the head and engine block. Dealer contacted. .

In oct 1999, head gasket was replaced at 35900 miles. Went back 2 weeks later complaining of oil still leaking on my driveway. They tightened one valve cover bolt which was loose. In February, 2000, with 39500 miles, complaining that the vehicle still has an oil leak. They used an engine dye to try to detect source of leak. They test drove the car, let it run for a few hours, and could not detect any leaks. So I lived with slight oil leaks, which recently got worse, but did not notice immediately because my driveway is loaded with spots. While driving on the expressway, the head gasket blew. Construction barriers were lined up alongside the expressway. It was difficult to pull off to the side because of these barriers. This presented a real hazard. I feel it is important for a recall of Dodge Stratus 1995-1998 head gaskets to be implemented. (as well as other models which use this same type of head gasket. ) head gaskets should be good for at least the typical life of a car. That is a very costly item. It already has happened twice, and I only have 50000 miles on my car. I know I will never buy another Dodge in my lifetime. My dealer has given me horrible service on numerous occasions. It was never a pleasure to get my car serviced.

Two complaints: first - never received a recall notice # 671 issued on 4/1996 of which this vehicle should have been included (built through 10/13/1995) this car was built on 10/13/1995. At state inspection this past March noticed it was starting to leak oil and now is leaking about 2 to 3 qts a week (10/6/2001). Went to dealer & asked about recall they contacted crysler and were told to check if galley plugs were the cause. Dealer checked and said the head gasket was leaking badly. Contacted Chrysler today and said they will get back to me. Went to your consumer complaints listing and found that of 287 complaints filed under the engine catagory 217 or 76% were for oil leaks or head gasket blown! under engine gasket covers 124 records all 100% were for oil leaks. Safety hazard of fire is quite possible why isn't the manufacturer required to do a recall? from what I have heard this is quite a problem with all status's through model year 2000. Thank you.

Head gasket blew out on vehicle.

Headgasket blewout since purchase. Also, consumer has had to replace master cylinder, power steering pump, catalytic converter, and valve cover gasket.

I had an oil leak took to dealership they advise me my head gasket is blown which I always had an oil change every three months.

Engine head gasket blew at 40,000 miles, causing loss of oil. Please provide further information.

Engine head gasket blew out 46,000 miles of wear, causing vehicle to lose oil. Dealer/mfr. Notified .

Engine head gaskets have blown out. Dealer and maufacturer have been notified.

Head gaskets blewout, causing oil leakage. Dealer will be notified.

Was driving when the head gasket blewout. Vehicle was parked , and noticed oil leaking out after moving vehicle. Had oil in the water. Took vehicle to mechanic, and problem was diagnosted as head gasket leaking.

Engine head gaskets blow out, causing oil to leak from the motor. Please give any further details.