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2003 Chrysler Cirrus

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2003 Chrysler Cirrus was a mid-size sedan offering comfortable transportation at an affordable price. It was available with three engine options: a 2.4L inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Cirrus for its spacious interior and smooth ride, but criticized it for its reliability issues and somewhat bland styling.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Low oil level, oil spots on the driveway, and burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rough Idle
    • Description/Symptoms: Unstable or fluctuating idle speed, stalling, and engine hesitation. Can be caused by a dirty throttle body, faulty idle air control (IAC) valve, or vacuum leaks.
    • Solution: Clean the throttle body, replace the IAC valve, or repair any vacuum leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: The 2.7L V6 engine in the 2003 Chrysler Cirrus is notorious for its tendency to develop sludge buildup. This occurs when oil breaks down and solidifies inside the engine, particularly in the oil passages and around the valve train. Symptoms include engine knocking, loss of power, poor fuel economy, overheating, and potential engine failure.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil, using an engine flush product with caution, and in severe cases, engine disassembly and cleaning or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+ depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and engine knocking.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seal.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and difficulty engaging certain gears.
    • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+ depending on the severity and repair needed.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, and poor acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises when going over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate, slow or erratic movement, and clicking noises from the door.
    • Solution: Replace the window motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and check engine light illumination.
    • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel depending on severity and repair method.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming in the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging down.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Chrysler Cirrus can be a decent used car option if found in good condition, but potential buyers should be aware of its common issues. The most concerning problem is the sludge buildup in the 2.7L V6 engine, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Other common issues include transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions. Repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage, but some repairs, such as engine sludge buildup, can be very expensive. Careful inspection and maintenance are crucial to avoid costly repairs.

Chrysler, Cirrus
Chrysler Cirrus 2003
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