1992 Chrysler Phantom

1992 Chrysler Phantom

The Chrysler Phantom, an impressive sedan of its time, was available with various powertrain options, including:

• 3.3L V6 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission (162 horsepower, 195 lb-ft torque)
• 3.8L V6 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission (175 horsepower, 190 lb-ft torque)

Despite its undeniable appeal, the Phantom has faced its fair share of issues over the years. Here’s a comprehensive list categorized by major components:

Engine

3.3L V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description: Failure of the gasket between the intake manifold and the cylinder head, causing vacuum leaks and coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description: Malfunctioning of the sensor, leading to engine stalls and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

3.8L V6 Engine

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description: Deterioration of the gasket, resulting in oil leaks from the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description: Failure of the tensioner, causing the timing chain to skip or break.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Overheating:
  • Description: Transmission overheating due to insufficient fluid or internal component failure.
  • Solution: Flush and replace the transmission fluid and/or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
• Gear Slipping:
  • Description: Difficulty engaging gears or slippage during gear changes.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

Front Suspension:

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description: Deterioration of the rubber mount that connects the strut to the car, leading to a clunking noise and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Lower Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description: Wear and tear on the ball joint, resulting in a knocking noise and reduced steering stability.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Rear Suspension:

• Coil Spring Sagging:
  • Description: Weakening of the coil springs, causing the car to sit lower and reducing ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description: Loss of damping ability in the shock absorbers, resulting in a rough ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description: Battery draining quickly even when the car is turned off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain, such as a faulty alternator or electronic component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description: Failure of the alternator to charge the battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

Exterior

• Wiper Motor Failure:
  • Description: Malfunctioning of the wiper motor, causing the wipers to not work or work intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description: Cracking of the dashboard material due to exposure to heat and UV rays.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
• Window Switch Failure:
  • Description: Malfunctioning of the power window switches, causing the windows to not open or close.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Summary

Overall, the 1992 Chrysler Phantom has faced a range of issues across various components. While some issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and battery drain, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, like timing chain tensioner failure and transmission overheating, can be costly and require more extensive repairs. It’s important to consider the potential expenses associated with these issues when purchasing or maintaining this classic sedan.