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2004 Chrysler Crossfire

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2004 Chrysler Crossfire, separated by category and component.

The 2004 Chrysler Crossfire is a unique vehicle that combines American styling with German engineering, as it shares many components with the Mercedes-Benz SLK320. It came standard with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. A supercharged version was available in the SRT-6 model, boosting output to 330 hp and 310 lb-ft. The base model was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the SRT-6 came exclusively with the automatic. People are drawn to the Crossfire for its distinctive design and sporty handling, but some find the interior cramped and the rear visibility limited. Reliability and access to parts can also be a concern due to its age and shared components with Mercedes-Benz.

Engine

3.2L V6

  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, rough idling, difficulty starting, check engine light illumination.
    • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine Stalls, rough idling, difficulty starting, check engine light illumination.
    • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common areas include valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the leak location

3.2L Supercharged V6 (SRT-6)

  • Intercooler Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, especially during hot weather or prolonged driving. The supercharger becomes less effective due to overheating.
    • Solution: Replace the intercooler pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Supercharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the supercharger, loss of boost, reduced performance. This can be due to worn bearings or other internal components.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the supercharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

  • Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, transmission slipping, or failure to shift at all. Check engine light may illuminate with transmission-related codes.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission conductor plate (also known as the valve body). This often requires dropping the transmission pan and replacing the filter as well.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Poor fuel economy, transmission slipping, and possible stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. This may also require flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+

5-Speed Manual (3.2L V6 Only)

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or imprecise.
    • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side
  • Rear Spring Perch Rust/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loud cracking or popping noises from the rear suspension, especially when cornering or going over bumps. Sagging rear end. Visible rust and damage to the spring perch.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the rear spring perch. This may require welding and can be labor-intensive. Some owners opt to replace the entire rear axle assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair method.

Electrical

  • Central Locking System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the key fob or interior switch. Intermittent operation.
    • Solution: Check the door lock actuators, wiring harness, and central locking module. Replace any faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Instrument Cluster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working correctly, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, making grinding noises, or moving slowly.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Exterior

  • Rear Spoiler Actuator Failure (Limited to models with automatic spoiler)
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear spoiler failing to deploy or retract automatically.
    • Solution: Replace the spoiler actuator motor or assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the underbody, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
    • Solution: Clean and repair the rusted areas. Apply rust protection.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$2000+ depending on the extent of the rust and repair method

Interior

  • Air Conditioning Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blowing warm air, not cooling effectively, or making strange noises.
    • Solution: Check the refrigerant level, compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Repair or replace any faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Heater Core Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak inside the cabin, a sweet smell, fogging of the windshield, or a cool feeling instead of warm when the heat is activated.
    • Solution: Replace the heater core.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Radio/Sound System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Radio not working, speakers cutting out, or problems with the CD player.
    • Solution: Check the wiring connections, replace the radio unit, or repair faulty speakers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Summary

The 2004 Chrysler Crossfire has a mix of issues, some stemming from its shared components with Mercedes-Benz vehicles and others from general age-related wear and tear. Engine and transmission issues can be costly, especially for the supercharged SRT-6 model. Suspension and electrical problems are also relatively common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in maintenance and repair costs when considering purchasing a 2004 Chrysler Crossfire. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing several thousand dollars. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial when evaluating a used Crossfire.

Chrysler, Crossfire
Chrysler Crossfire 2004
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