2001 Chrysler Cirrus

The 2001 Chrysler Cirrus was a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. Available engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7L V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consisted of a 4-speed automatic. People liked the Cirrus for its smooth ride and ample passenger space, while common dislikes included its somewhat uninspired styling and reported reliability issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

• Sludging Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: This engine is prone to oil sludge buildup if oil changes are not performed regularly with the correct oil type. Sludging can lead to poor engine performance, increased wear, and potential engine failure.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes with synthetic oil and potentially engine flush treatments. In severe cases, engine teardown and cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump is located inside the timing cover on the 2.7L engine, so when it fails, coolant leaks into the oil. This can cause serious engine damage if not addressed quickly. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, and milky oil.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump, timing chain, and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to engage certain gears. These issues can stem from worn valve body components or solenoid issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose the root cause of the shifting issues. This may involve replacing the valve body, solenoids, or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out over time, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: The coil springs are prone to rusting and snapping, leading to a loud clunk when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows can stop working due to faulty window motors or regulators.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience intermittent failures, such as flickering lights, inaccurate readings, or complete loss of function.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle is prone to rust, especially in areas exposed to road salt. This can affect the body panels, undercarriage, and suspension components.
  • Solution: Repair rusted areas or replace affected components. Prevention through rustproofing treatments is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack over time due to exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover to conceal the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Chrysler Cirrus, while offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior, is prone to several common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.7L V6 (sludging and water pump failure), can be costly to repair. Other notable issues include transmission problems, suspension wear, electrical glitches, and rust. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.