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2002 Chrysler Voyager

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2002 Chrysler Voyager is a minivan known for its affordability and practicality, offering a spacious interior suitable for families. Available engine options include a 2.4L Inline-4 producing around 150 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, a 3.3L V6 rated at approximately 180 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L V6, producing approximately 215 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Voyager’s comfortable ride and ample cargo space. Common complaints include reliability issues and less refined handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Engine Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often stemming from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the standard repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter may fail prematurely, leading to a check engine light and potential issues with emissions testing. Symptoms include a rotten egg smell, poor engine performance, and failed emissions test.
    • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: This engine is prone to sludge buildup if oil changes are not performed regularly. Sludge can restrict oil flow, leading to engine knocking, poor performance, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality oil and the use of an engine flush can help prevent and mitigate sludge buildup. In severe cases, engine cleaning or replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change/flush) - $2000+ (engine replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR Valve Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

  • Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: The 3.8L engine is susceptible to overheating, often due to coolant leaks, a failing water pump, or a clogged radiator. Symptoms include the temperature gauge reading high, steam coming from under the hood, and coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Repairing coolant leaks, replacing the water pump, or flushing/replacing the radiator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can leak, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission (41TE/A604) can exhibit harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
    • Solution: Could require a transmission flush and filter change, solenoid replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to shuddering during acceleration, stalling, or a complete loss of power.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out, resulting in a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
    • Solution: Replacing the struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Broken/Worn Coil Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Coil springs can break or sag over time, leading to uneven ride height and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replacing the coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings can wear, causing clunking noises, poor alignment, and vague steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Door Lock Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The power door locks can malfunction, failing to lock or unlock consistently. This could be caused by faulty actuators.
    • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows can fail to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
    • Solution: Replacing the window motor or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Radio/Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The radio or instrument cluster can experience intermittent failures, such as loss of display or complete power loss.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the radio or instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust is common, particularly in areas prone to salt exposure. Common locations include rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers may stop working or operate erratically.
    • Solution: Replacing the windshield wiper motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sliding doors (especially power doors, if equipped) can be difficult to open or close. May be related to the door latch, power door motor or door cables.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sliding door latch, motor or cables.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner can sag or detach from the roof of the vehicle.
    • Solution: Replacing or re-gluing the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may fail, resulting in no airflow from the vents.
    • Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2002 Chrysler Voyager is a vehicle that, while practical and spacious, is prone to a range of mechanical and electrical issues. Engine problems such as oil leaks, sludge buildup (particularly in the 3.3L V6), and overheating (especially in the 3.8L V6) are common. The 4-speed automatic transmission can also experience issues like harsh shifting and slipping. Other notable problems include suspension wear, electrical malfunctions (power door locks/windows), rust, and interior issues like sliding door problems and headliner sagging. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs, making it important to thoroughly inspect any potential purchase and be prepared for potential maintenance costs.

Chrysler, Voyager
Chrysler Voyager 2002
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