1995 Chrysler Spirit

Introduction:

The 1995 Chrysler Spirit is a midsize sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price. It came with two engine and transmission options:

• 2.5L V6, 152 hp, 173 lb-ft torque with a 4-speed automatic transmission (A604)
• 3.0L V6, 162 hp, 195 lb-ft torque with a 4-speed automatic transmission (A606)

Drivers generally appreciate the Spirit’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and value for money. However, some common issues have been reported.

Engine

• 2.5L V6:
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Intake manifold gaskets degrade over time, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, coolant loss, and poor engine performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Rear Main Seal Leak: The rear main seal can fail, leading to oil leaks from the rear of the engine. Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and low oil levels. Solution: Replace the rear main seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• 3.0L V6:
  • Head Gasket Failure: Head gaskets can fail, allowing coolant and oil to leak into the cylinders. Symptoms include overheating, white or blue smoke from the exhaust, and poor engine performance. Solution: Replace the head gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to slip and potentially damage the engine. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, misfires, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000

Transmission

• A604 4-Speed Automatic:
  • Solenoid Pack Failure: Solenoids in the transmission can fail, causing shifting problems, slipping, and premature gear engagement. Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed shifts, and inability to shift gears. Solution: Replace the solenoid pack. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail, preventing the transmission from engaging and causing the vehicle to stall. Symptoms include slipping, shuddering, and stalling. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• A606 4-Speed Automatic:
  • Overdrive Band Failure: The overdrive band can fail, causing slipping in overdrive gear and a loss of power. Symptoms include delayed shifts into overdrive, slipping while cruising, and poor highway performance. Solution: Replace the overdrive band. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Valve Body Leaks: The valve body can develop leaks, leading to shifting problems, fluid leaks, and premature failure. Symptoms include hard shifting, inconsistent shifting, and fluid leaking from the transmission pan. Solution: Repair or replace the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Suspension

• Struts and Shocks: Struts and shocks can wear out over time, leading to poor ride quality, excessive bouncing, and uneven tire wear. Symptoms include a rough ride, body roll, and difficulty handling. Solution: Replace the struts and shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Tie Rods: Tie rods can bend or break, causing the vehicle to pull to one side while driving. Symptoms include a pulling sensation, uneven tire wear, and poor steering response. Solution: Replace the tie rods. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Alternators can fail, leaving the vehicle without power and potentially causing battery damage. Symptoms include dim headlights, flickering lights, and difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Starter Failure: Starters can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start, no response from the engine, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch can fail, causing intermittent or complete loss of headlights. Symptoms include headlights not turning on or flickering, and difficulty switching between low and high beams. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
• Door Lock Actuator Failure: The door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking. Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking doors, stuck doors, and inoperable power locks. Solution: Replace the door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door

Interior

• Cruise Control Failure: The cruise control system can fail, preventing the vehicle from maintaining a set speed. Symptoms include the cruise control not engaging, erratic speed control, and difficulty setting or canceling the cruise. Solution: Repair or replace the cruise control module or components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary:

The 1995 Chrysler Spirit generally has good reliability, but some common issues can occur, especially with the engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to repair, and it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage. However, the Spirit remains a relatively affordable and comfortable vehicle with a spacious interior and decent fuel efficiency.