1996 Chrysler Concorde

Introduction:

The 1996 Chrysler Concorde is a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced features. It was available with two engine options: a 2.7L V6 and a 3.5L V6, paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. Owners praised the Concorde for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and smooth power delivery. However, like any vehicle, the Concorde had some common issues that owners reported.

Engine

2.7L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil or coolant leaks, overheating, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Exhaust Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leaks, loss of power, loud engine noise
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Loss Due to Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, loss of power, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the TPS
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power during acceleration, inconsistent gear shifts, shuddering
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of acceleration, slipping, whining noise
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard to engage gears, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace the clutch or master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, noise during shifting
  • Solution: Replace the transmission mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking noise, rough ride, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, vibration, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery discharge, no electrical power
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical component failure, intermittent problems
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the affected wiring harnesses
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per harness
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, especially around wheel arches and rocker panels
  • Solution: Rust treatment or panel replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close windows
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard
  • Solution: Repair or replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Chrysler Concorde is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common issues involve the engine intake manifold gaskets, exhaust manifold gaskets, transmission slipping, suspension strut failure, window regulator failure, and rust. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. While some repairs can be costly, most can be completed for a reasonable price by a qualified mechanic.