1996 Chrysler Cirrus

Introduction:

The 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is a mid-size sedan that offers a refined ride and spacious cabin. It is powered by a 2.5L V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, producing 168 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque. The Cirrus is praised for its comfortable seats, responsive handling, and attractive styling, but it has not been without its share of issues.

Engine

2.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket, leading to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 04V195000
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can break, causing catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 98V098000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fails to engage gears properly, causing the vehicle to hesitate or lurch.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more struts fail, leading to a rough or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replace the affected struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sway bar links wear out, causing knocking noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails to generate electricity, causing dead batteries and electrical problems.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains rapidly, preventing the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Test for parasitic drain and fix the cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch fails, causing the headlights to not work.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks fail to engage or disengage.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system fails to regulate temperature or airflow.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control module or actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power windows stop working.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has a number of potential issues, particularly with the intake manifold gasket, timing belt, transmission, and struts. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not considered major mechanical failures. Overall, the Cirrus is still a reliable and comfortable vehicle for its age.