Chrysler Cars OK ??
- Thread starter Jerryb
- Start date
- Status
Kestas
Staff member
Living in Detroit and having worked for Chrysler, Ford, and sattelite outfits, as well as being immersed in the American car culture, I don't think Chrysler cars are such a bad choice.
If you look further at the CR ratings, though they are rated low, sometimes they are rated high when it comes to value for your money. They aren't priced as high as the competition. I haven't had any horrible nightmarish experiences with Chrysler products. They may have more of the niggling problems that require repair than their competitors, but it doesn't seem to overwhelm the DIYer when compared with german vehicles. With proper regular maintenance, they can last as long as competitive product. I never hesitate to buy Chrysler vehicles - new or used.
If you look further at the CR ratings, though they are rated low, sometimes they are rated high when it comes to value for your money. They aren't priced as high as the competition. I haven't had any horrible nightmarish experiences with Chrysler products. They may have more of the niggling problems that require repair than their competitors, but it doesn't seem to overwhelm the DIYer when compared with german vehicles. With proper regular maintenance, they can last as long as competitive product. I never hesitate to buy Chrysler vehicles - new or used.
My dad and I both own Jeeps and they've both been reliable, quality vehicles. He's had a few more problems with his than I've had with mine including a broken heated seat pad and a cracked heater core, but no powertrain problems in either. His is a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited with the V8 and full-time 4x4, I have a '99 Cherokee Sport with the 4.0L and part-time 4x4. Both now have over 170K miles.
A friend just bought a Wrangler recently, so far no problems. Seems like a really nice vehicle. Shame they moved away form the 4.0 engine, though.
On my last trip for work I had a Dodge Caliber, which was, pretty poor. The interior felt really cheap, and I hated the way the electric steering felt (thought I'm fine with the electric steering in other cars, such as the Pontiac G6). The engine was rough but I recall getting pretty good economy (about 27, IIRC) for the time I had it. My rental was the absolute base model, though, with manual windows and locks, etc. Perhaps a better-equipped model would be more livable.
If Chrysler made a car I was interested in, I would buy it. The Challenger is tempting but of the three new muscle cars it's probably my least favorite.
A friend just bought a Wrangler recently, so far no problems. Seems like a really nice vehicle. Shame they moved away form the 4.0 engine, though.
On my last trip for work I had a Dodge Caliber, which was, pretty poor. The interior felt really cheap, and I hated the way the electric steering felt (thought I'm fine with the electric steering in other cars, such as the Pontiac G6). The engine was rough but I recall getting pretty good economy (about 27, IIRC) for the time I had it. My rental was the absolute base model, though, with manual windows and locks, etc. Perhaps a better-equipped model would be more livable.
If Chrysler made a car I was interested in, I would buy it. The Challenger is tempting but of the three new muscle cars it's probably my least favorite.
Last edited:
One of our cars is an 07 Caliber with which we've been very pleased. I often use it as a commuter vehicle when I go to a client site and can easily get 30+ MPG on the highway. I like it because it sits up higher than a car, can haul more than just groceries, and is relatively simple.
I've only had one issue since it was new-a check engine light that reflashing the ECU corrected. Other than the check engine light I've only changed the oil/filter. I have just over 30K on it.
A few weeks ago we put stone tile on the floor of a family room and hauled all 35 boxes of 13X13 tile in the Caliber 15 miles. I made a second trip a few days later for the mortar, grout and sealer. The Caliber handled it without a problem.
I have hauled the following with the Caliber:
8' lumber
38 fence posts
A replacement screen door
An office chair
A custom made wooden rocking chair & 2 custom made end tables
10' pieces of vinyl downspout
Lots of other things for around the house.
It was a decent value for the price given the level of utility and the fuel mileage. I like the bright, fairly spartan interior-it's easy to keep clean. I would purchase it again.
I've only had one issue since it was new-a check engine light that reflashing the ECU corrected. Other than the check engine light I've only changed the oil/filter. I have just over 30K on it.
A few weeks ago we put stone tile on the floor of a family room and hauled all 35 boxes of 13X13 tile in the Caliber 15 miles. I made a second trip a few days later for the mortar, grout and sealer. The Caliber handled it without a problem.
I have hauled the following with the Caliber:
8' lumber
38 fence posts
A replacement screen door
An office chair
A custom made wooden rocking chair & 2 custom made end tables
10' pieces of vinyl downspout
Lots of other things for around the house.
It was a decent value for the price given the level of utility and the fuel mileage. I like the bright, fairly spartan interior-it's easy to keep clean. I would purchase it again.
My old Dakota hasn't been bad, although since it's a 1991 it really is from another era and I can't compare it to today's vehicles. Peeling paint problem that is common from that era.
But when Chrysler is ranked dead last in CR's reliability chart, I would find it difficult to buy one. And when I rented a Caliber recently I also found it cheap (and with 5k miles the hatch was broken and the washer fluid leaked already).
John
But when Chrysler is ranked dead last in CR's reliability chart, I would find it difficult to buy one. And when I rented a Caliber recently I also found it cheap (and with 5k miles the hatch was broken and the washer fluid leaked already).
John
I would worry more about the low resale/residual on Chrysler products, than on the reliability ratings.
My preferred Dodge dealer has a 2006 Ram 1500 Ext. Cab, Big Horn, loaded, power seats, satellite radio, 20" wheels, 19,000 miles, excellent condition in and out, priced at $15,995.
If it was a Chevy/GMC at that price, it would already be in my garage.
Someone took a beating when they traded in that truck, and since it is a Chrysler, that's not terribly unusual.
My preferred Dodge dealer has a 2006 Ram 1500 Ext. Cab, Big Horn, loaded, power seats, satellite radio, 20" wheels, 19,000 miles, excellent condition in and out, priced at $15,995.
If it was a Chevy/GMC at that price, it would already be in my garage.
Someone took a beating when they traded in that truck, and since it is a Chrysler, that's not terribly unusual.
Our family has owned numerous Chrysler models since the 1970's. Only ones in the family now are a Jeep Commander and an older Dodge Ram truck, but we've had Dodges, other Jeep models, even a couple of Eagles. Everything from turbo coupes to family sedans to trucks and minivans. Our first family experience with Mopars goes back to 1978 and a Dodge Aspen wagon. So let's call that 30 years of Chrysler products in our driveways.
Our experience has been mixed. Obviously we've liked them over the years or they would not have been bought. Quality control has been an issue on some vehicles but other than the old pos Aspen, none have been a bad car.
The issue today is not about Chrysler making a good car, its about the intense competition in the US market. The wide variety of quality products is staggering and bewilders almost everyone. That's why you mostly read complaints about styling, design and fit & finish. That's pretty much all people can intelligently complain about. Sure, someone will have a serious problem now and then but no one makes a really bad car, so the definition of a "good car" has changed to minor things.
Don't put a lot of credence into what others say, especially from the internet. Everyone has an ax to grind. Go out, drive the cars, do you own comparo based on your personal values and make the best decision for you. After all, you are the one making the payment. Good luck.
Our experience has been mixed. Obviously we've liked them over the years or they would not have been bought. Quality control has been an issue on some vehicles but other than the old pos Aspen, none have been a bad car.
The issue today is not about Chrysler making a good car, its about the intense competition in the US market. The wide variety of quality products is staggering and bewilders almost everyone. That's why you mostly read complaints about styling, design and fit & finish. That's pretty much all people can intelligently complain about. Sure, someone will have a serious problem now and then but no one makes a really bad car, so the definition of a "good car" has changed to minor things.
Don't put a lot of credence into what others say, especially from the internet. Everyone has an ax to grind. Go out, drive the cars, do you own comparo based on your personal values and make the best decision for you. After all, you are the one making the payment. Good luck.
My dad bought a 96 Dodge Stratus new. Before it was out of warranty it needed a head gasket. It needed several window switches, an a/c control panel, steering rack, wheel bearings, starter, the cat converter was on its way out, and it showed signs that a new head gasket was needed. Traded the car in at 8 years old with 61000 miles after hearing the latter 2 needed fixing. The interior was cheap. Gas mileage wasn't great for a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder. It was a good looking car compared to its competitors at that time though.
I don't have any experiences with the new Chryslers. I did sit in a couple briefly though and I think they are using even cheaper materials.
I don't have any experiences with the new Chryslers. I did sit in a couple briefly though and I think they are using even cheaper materials.
I was raised in a Chrysler/Plymouth family (grandfather had a dealership) so keep in mind that I've been emotionally attached to the brand since the 300's and original Plymouth Fury cars. Six years ago, my wife was looking for a convert with 4 useable seats which limited her choice to Chrysler or a few expensive imports. The motor that seems to be the problem with Chrysler is the 2.7 V6 which, of course, we have and is how I ended up finding this site (just google Chrysler sludge problem.)
I will say that we've had no engine problems, but I am religious about OC's and use PP every 3K. We also had an electrical problem that the dealer couldn't solve and I finally did (so much for Chry.Corp extended warranty option.) Like many Chrysler dealers, that one is finally out of business and the Dodge franchise has inherited their repair business.
If I could do it all over, I think I'd avoid Chrysler. Unlike some other mfgrs. with problem engines, they have failed to admit a problem and have taken no action to correct what seem to be inherent design flaws. There's a reason everyone buys Toyota & next time I'll be in there with them.
Good luck,
Bill
I will say that we've had no engine problems, but I am religious about OC's and use PP every 3K. We also had an electrical problem that the dealer couldn't solve and I finally did (so much for Chry.Corp extended warranty option.) Like many Chrysler dealers, that one is finally out of business and the Dodge franchise has inherited their repair business.
If I could do it all over, I think I'd avoid Chrysler. Unlike some other mfgrs. with problem engines, they have failed to admit a problem and have taken no action to correct what seem to be inherent design flaws. There's a reason everyone buys Toyota & next time I'll be in there with them.
Good luck,
Bill
"The issue today is not about Chrysler making a good car, its about the intense competition in the US market. The wide variety of quality products is staggering and bewilders almost everyone. That's why you mostly read complaints about styling, design and fit & finish. That's pretty much all people can intelligently complain about. Sure, someone will have a serious problem now and then but no one makes a really bad car, so the definition of a "good car" has changed to minor things.
Don't put a lot of credence into what others say, especially from the internet. Everyone has an ax to grind. Go out, drive the cars, do you own comparo based on your personal values and make the best decision for you. After all, you are the one making the payment. Good luck." bretfraz.
absolutely. CR is an excellent mag, when it comes to rating things such as appliances, large and small, electronics items (cameras, tv's, video equipment,computers, etc.) paints, and most household goods. when a mag rates things like food items, and cars -- that's a different animal, altogether. people have too many likes and dislikes about these products to believe a mag article as gospel. the writers cannot be objective about rating cars, as there are too many variables and personal tastes that come into play. such as -- drivetrain NVH, suspension, braking, style, instrument panel style, seating support/comfort/position -- as examples.
the intelligent way to choose is to drive 3 or 4 different products, and choose the one that suits your needs the best, and gives you the best bang for your buck. avoid ,like poison, people who bash a company's products. decide for yourself. good luck.
Don't put a lot of credence into what others say, especially from the internet. Everyone has an ax to grind. Go out, drive the cars, do you own comparo based on your personal values and make the best decision for you. After all, you are the one making the payment. Good luck." bretfraz.
absolutely. CR is an excellent mag, when it comes to rating things such as appliances, large and small, electronics items (cameras, tv's, video equipment,computers, etc.) paints, and most household goods. when a mag rates things like food items, and cars -- that's a different animal, altogether. people have too many likes and dislikes about these products to believe a mag article as gospel. the writers cannot be objective about rating cars, as there are too many variables and personal tastes that come into play. such as -- drivetrain NVH, suspension, braking, style, instrument panel style, seating support/comfort/position -- as examples.
the intelligent way to choose is to drive 3 or 4 different products, and choose the one that suits your needs the best, and gives you the best bang for your buck. avoid ,like poison, people who bash a company's products. decide for yourself. good luck.
Originally Posted By: Bill888
I was raised in a Chrysler/Plymouth family (grandfather had a dealership) so keep in mind that I've been emotionally attached to the brand since the 300's and original Plymouth Fury cars. Six years ago, my wife was looking for a convert with 4 useable seats which limited her choice to Chrysler or a few expensive imports. The motor that seems to be the problem with Chrysler is the 2.7 V6 which, of course, we have and is how I ended up finding this site (just google Chrysler sludge problem.)
I will say that we've had no engine problems, but I am religious about OC's and use PP every 3K. We also had an electrical problem that the dealer couldn't solve and I finally did (so much for Chry.Corp extended warranty option.) Like many Chrysler dealers, that one is finally out of business and the Dodge franchise has inherited their repair business.
If I could do it all over, I think I'd avoid Chrysler. Unlike some other mfgrs. with problem engines, they have failed to admit a problem and have taken no action to correct what seem to be inherent design flaws. There's a reason everyone buys Toyota & next time I'll be in there with them.
Good luck,
Bill
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
I was raised in a Chrysler/Plymouth family (grandfather had a dealership) so keep in mind that I've been emotionally attached to the brand since the 300's and original Plymouth Fury cars. Six years ago, my wife was looking for a convert with 4 useable seats which limited her choice to Chrysler or a few expensive imports. The motor that seems to be the problem with Chrysler is the 2.7 V6 which, of course, we have and is how I ended up finding this site (just google Chrysler sludge problem.)
I will say that we've had no engine problems, but I am religious about OC's and use PP every 3K. We also had an electrical problem that the dealer couldn't solve and I finally did (so much for Chry.Corp extended warranty option.) Like many Chrysler dealers, that one is finally out of business and the Dodge franchise has inherited their repair business.
If I could do it all over, I think I'd avoid Chrysler. Unlike some other mfgrs. with problem engines, they have failed to admit a problem and have taken no action to correct what seem to be inherent design flaws. There's a reason everyone buys Toyota & next time I'll be in there with them.
Good luck,
Bill
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
My dad worked for Chrysler for 20 years and is also a mechanic of 35 years, and he wouldn't buy the product. We are happy owners of 2 Hyundai's and a Kia. Until the Big-2 and part of Ford's products get MUCH MUCH better I wouldn't go near those Manufacturers.
(And yes we have owned multiple Chrysler products with multiple problems. We finally got fed up and switched to Hyundai/Kia and have been so happy we have never looked back.)
(And yes we have owned multiple Chrysler products with multiple problems. We finally got fed up and switched to Hyundai/Kia and have been so happy we have never looked back.)
Originally Posted By: Cutehumor
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
How do you figure that? Sounds to me like he's had one electrical problem and a "sludger" engine designed and built by that Japanese, that in his case, is working fine.
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
How do you figure that? Sounds to me like he's had one electrical problem and a "sludger" engine designed and built by that Japanese, that in his case, is working fine.
Our bus(school) company uses a dakota for moving breakdowns around town.
Amazing
Amazing
Originally Posted By: mstrjon32
Originally Posted By: Cutehumor
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
How do you figure that? Sounds to me like he's had one electrical problem and a "sludger" engine designed and built by that Japanese, that in his case, is working fine.
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Quote:
To clarify again - the 2.7 was developed from the 3.2, which was developed from the 3.5 — all at Highland Park and later, CTC, in the early days — there were several changes, but the starting point for all was the 3.5.
http://www.allpar.com/mopar/new6.html
The thing that is telling is that his FAMILY ran a Chrysler dealership and he would no longer recommend such cars.
Originally Posted By: Cutehumor
Perfect example why the Big 3 are in trouble especially Chrysler
How do you figure that? Sounds to me like he's had one electrical problem and a "sludger" engine designed and built by that Japanese, that in his case, is working fine.
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Quote:
To clarify again - the 2.7 was developed from the 3.2, which was developed from the 3.5 — all at Highland Park and later, CTC, in the early days — there were several changes, but the starting point for all was the 3.5.
http://www.allpar.com/mopar/new6.html
The thing that is telling is that his FAMILY ran a Chrysler dealership and he would no longer recommend such cars.
I've always owned Fords and was happy with them. I was never a fan of Chrysler products, but the 08 Jeep we bought has changed my views. Having sold Kia's, and hung with the mechanics in the shop I wouldn't touch a Kia or Hyundai with a 10' pole. But like the the debates on 5W20 vs 5W30, Dino vs. Synthetic, or our favorite brand oil we're all entitled to our opinions.
Originally Posted By: javacontour
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Fine, you get a cookie.
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Fine, you get a cookie.
Last edited:
Originally Posted By: mstrjon32
Originally Posted By: javacontour
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Fine, you get a cookie.
Wow, what a gracious reply.
Trying to take the focus off the real issue, that via his family he has intimate experience with Chrysler and now says no?
Originally Posted By: javacontour
Sorry, the 2.7 is a US design
Fine, you get a cookie.
Wow, what a gracious reply.
Trying to take the focus off the real issue, that via his family he has intimate experience with Chrysler and now says no?
Originally Posted By: javacontour
Trying to take the focus off the real issue, that via his family he has intimate experience with Chrysler and now says no?
I have nothing else to add, you're right about the engine.
He didn't even give me a remotely compelling reason that there is a problem with Chrysler's products. He said he bought a Sebring 6 years ago and it's got a "known" sludger and has had one electrical problem the dealer couldn't fix. If I bought a car and in 6 years all that went wrong was one electrical problem (albeit one that was difficult to resolve), it seems ridiculous to not buy another car from that manufacturer. I can think of plenty of friends with Toyota's, Honda's, Chevy's, and everything else under the sun that has had more than 1 problem in 6 years.
Trying to take the focus off the real issue, that via his family he has intimate experience with Chrysler and now says no?
I have nothing else to add, you're right about the engine.
He didn't even give me a remotely compelling reason that there is a problem with Chrysler's products. He said he bought a Sebring 6 years ago and it's got a "known" sludger and has had one electrical problem the dealer couldn't fix. If I bought a car and in 6 years all that went wrong was one electrical problem (albeit one that was difficult to resolve), it seems ridiculous to not buy another car from that manufacturer. I can think of plenty of friends with Toyota's, Honda's, Chevy's, and everything else under the sun that has had more than 1 problem in 6 years.
I have bought 2 new Chrysler products over the years, a Plymouth Breeze in 97 and a Dodge Neon in 04. I sold the Plyumouth about 2 years ago, it had about 150k miles on it. The Neon has 134k on it and I still have it. One of my daughters has a 2006 quad cab Ram 1500 she bought new, I'd definitely hear about problems on it if it had any. None so far.
When I had the Breeze I had 2 problems, the head gasket started leaking oil on the backside, it ran fine but would make oil spots in my garage. The dealer changed the head gasket for free in one day and this was out of warranty. The other problem was a map sensor that went bad turning on the engine light. It had other minor things like a sunvisor clip and a knob for the drivers seatbelt height adjustment that broke but that's it. I ran in to the guy I sold it to recently and he says he hasn't had to do anything to it so far and it has 170k+ miles on it.
The Neon has been trouble free. No problems at all, everything works, no rattles, squeaks, nothing.
Am I lucky with Chryslers? I don't think so, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another Chrysler product today.
When I had the Breeze I had 2 problems, the head gasket started leaking oil on the backside, it ran fine but would make oil spots in my garage. The dealer changed the head gasket for free in one day and this was out of warranty. The other problem was a map sensor that went bad turning on the engine light. It had other minor things like a sunvisor clip and a knob for the drivers seatbelt height adjustment that broke but that's it. I ran in to the guy I sold it to recently and he says he hasn't had to do anything to it so far and it has 170k+ miles on it.
The Neon has been trouble free. No problems at all, everything works, no rattles, squeaks, nothing.
Am I lucky with Chryslers? I don't think so, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another Chrysler product today.
- Status
