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2005 Chrysler Cirrus

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2005 Chrysler Cirrus is a mid-size sedan that offered a mix of affordability and comfort. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Cirrus for its spacious interior and smooth ride, while common complaints included lackluster fuel economy and build quality.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often originating from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rough Idling and Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling or hesitation during acceleration. This can be due to issues with the idle air control (IAC) valve, throttle position sensor (TPS), or vacuum leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor or repairing vacuum leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: This engine is notorious for sludge buildup in the oil passages, especially if oil changes are neglected. This can lead to oil starvation, overheating, and ultimately engine failure. Symptoms can include engine knocking, reduced performance, and oil pressure warning light.
    • Solution: In severe cases, engine replacement. In milder cases, a thorough engine flush and regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $3000+ (engine replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The water pump is prone to failure, leading to coolant leaks and overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting between gears. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn solenoids in the valve body, or internal damage to the transmission.
    • Solution: Checking and replacing the transmission fluid, replacing solenoids, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (fluid change) - $2500+ (transmission rebuild/replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, particularly when accelerating or going uphill. This indicates internal wear and tear.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts and Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replacing the struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Broken Coil Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, especially in the front, and potential noise when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacing the coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating intermittently. This is 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
  • ABS Light
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS warning light illuminating on the dashboard. This could indicate a faulty wheel speed sensor, ABS module, or other related issue.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific issue with a scan tool and replacing the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, particularly around the rocker panels and wheel wells.
    • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaching from the roof and sagging.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Chrysler Cirrus is prone to a range of issues, with the 2.7L V6 engine being particularly problematic due to sludge buildup and water pump failures. Transmission issues, electrical problems, and suspension wear are also common. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs that could cost thousands of dollars. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle, review its maintenance history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

Chrysler, Cirrus
Chrysler Cirrus 2005
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