2006 Chrysler Cirrus

The 2006 Chrysler Cirrus was a mid-size sedan aimed at providing a comfortable and affordable driving experience. The base engine was a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine producing around 150 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. A 2.7L V6 engine, generating about 189 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 engine, making approximately 253 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, were also available. The 2.4L was usually paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 engines had a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Cirrus for its spacious interior and smooth ride, while common complaints included mediocre fuel economy and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle can be caused by a number of things including vacuum leaks, worn spark plugs, dirty fuel injectors, or a faulty idle air control valve.
  • Solution: Replace any leaking vacuum lines. Replace the spark plugs and wires. Have the fuel injectors cleaned or replaced if needed. Replace the idle air control valve if it is faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6 Cylinder

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.7L V6 is prone to oil sludge buildup, which can lead to oil starvation and engine failure. Symptoms include knocking noises from the engine, low oil pressure, and overheating.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil can help prevent sludge buildup. In severe cases, engine cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, visible leaks, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between gears, can occur. This is often more noticeable with the higher mileage vehicles.
  • Solution: Fluid change and potentially a new shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the torque converter such as shuddering or failure to lock up.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out over time, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Coil springs can break, especially in areas with harsh winters. This can cause a noticeable sag in the suspension and affect handling.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate intermittently. This is often due to a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to operate correctly, with doors not locking or unlocking properly. This can be due to a faulty actuator or wiring issue.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the wiring issue or replace the faulty actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur in areas prone to moisture and salt, such as the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Chrysler Cirrus has several potential issues, with the 2.7L V6 engine being particularly prone to sludge buildup and coolant leaks, which can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting, are also common. While some electrical and suspension issues can occur, they are generally less severe. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when evaluating a used 2006 Chrysler Cirrus. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any potential issues.