2004 Chrysler Cirrus

2004 Chrysler Cirrus

Overview

The 2004 Chrysler Cirrus, a mid-size sedan, offered a blend of comfort and practicality for its era. While generally considered a decent value, like many vehicles of its vintage, it is not without its potential reliability concerns. Owners often report issues that, while not always catastrophic, can lead to unexpected repair costs and inconvenience. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems that have been documented, excluding routine maintenance. Understanding these potential weak points can help prospective buyers and current owners better anticipate and address necessary repairs to keep the Cirrus running smoothly.

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Engine

2.4L DOHC I4

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and associated seals. May require cylinder head resurfacing.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, crankshaft seal).
• Cost: $200 - $600

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, harsh shifting, loss of power during acceleration.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or complete transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $500 - $2500

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission fluid smells burnt, erratic shifting, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Flushing transmission fluid, installing an auxiliary transmission cooler.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Strut Mount Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning, rough ride.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Power windows, locks, or interior lights malfunctioning randomly; dashboard warning lights illuminating without cause.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting the engine.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

Rust and Corrosion

• Symptoms: Visible rust spots, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting. Prevention through regular washing and undercoating.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding and Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy appearance of the plastic lenses.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Power Window Regulators

Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, window falling down into the door.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator and motor assembly.
• Cost: $250 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Chrysler Cirrus presents a mixed reliability profile. While the core powertrain components can be durable if maintained, common issues such as head gasket failures on the 2.4L engine and transmission problems like slipping gears and overheating are frequently reported. Suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends, are also prone to wear. Electrical gremlins, often stemming from the Body Control Module or alternator, can lead to frustrating and costly repairs. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates, and interior components like HVAC blend doors and power window regulators are known failure points. Overall, while not inherently unreliable, the Cirrus requires diligent maintenance and awareness of its common weak spots to ensure long-term serviceability.