2001 Plymouth Prowler

The 2001 Plymouth Prowler is a retro-styled roadster produced by Chrysler. All Prowlers came equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 253 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Prowler’s unique and eye-catching design, as well as its surprisingly nimble handling. Common criticisms include the lack of a manual transmission option, limited cargo space, and some reliability concerns stemming from the shared parts with other Chrysler vehicles.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine misfire, white smoke from exhaust, rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, squealing noise from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, poor performance, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

• Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts, transmission slipping out of gear, reduced acceleration, trouble shifting into reverse.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. This may involve replacing worn clutches, valve body issues, or torque converter failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild or replacement. Minor repairs such as valve body may be less expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration, transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sitting low, reduced ride quality, bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, flickering lights, complete instrument cluster failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on, flickering headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Top motor failure, difficulty opening or closing the top, leaks, torn fabric.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the top motor, hydraulic lines, or fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: AC blowing warm air, no air blowing, unusual noises from the AC system.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the AC system, which may involve replacing the compressor, condenser, or refrigerant lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Plymouth Prowler, while visually striking, has some common reliability issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks and water pump failure, along with transmission problems such as slipping and hard shifting, are among the most concerning due to their potential cost. Suspension and electrical issues, while less severe, can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Addressing these common issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand for major overhauls.