2013 Chrysler Town & Country
The 2013 Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan known for its spacious interior, Stow ‘n Go seating, and family-friendly features. All 2013 Town & Country models came standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the van’s versatility and comfortable ride, but common complaints include electrical issues, transmission problems, and some engine concerns.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Oil Filter Housing Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil filter adapter/housing, often pooling on top of the engine or dripping down. Can cause low oil pressure and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter housing with an updated design, often including a new oil cooler.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rocker Arm Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold. Loss of power, misfires.
- Solution: Replace failed rocker arm and possibly camshaft if damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, check engine light illuminated, often with misfire codes (P0300 series). Can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
- Solution: Diagnose the cause of the misfire. Replace faulty coils, plugs, or injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (62TE)
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. Can be accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes.
- Solution: Could be caused by a faulty solenoid pack, valve body issue, or internal damage. Start with a fluid flush and filter replacement; if that doesn’t resolve the issue, more extensive repairs or a transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid/filter) - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at certain speeds, especially under light acceleration. Can lead to transmission overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. A transmission flush may also be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sag/Weakness
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sagging, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can lead to poor handling and ride quality.
- Solution: Replacement of rear shocks, coil springs, or both. Many owners opt for heavy-duty springs to compensate for the van’s weight and typical use.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Steering Pump Noise/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or groaning noise from the power steering pump, especially when turning the wheel at low speeds. Can lead to loss of power steering assist.
- Solution: Replacement of the power steering pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sliding doors not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Can be caused by a faulty motor, cable, or latch.
- Solution: Diagnose the specific problem. Replacement of the motor, cable, or latch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Problems
- Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical issues, including stalling, no-start conditions, erratic wiper operation, horn not working, and other seemingly random electrical failures.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the TIPM. Some aftermarket companies offer repair services.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, either intermittently or completely.
- Solution: Replace faulty window motor or regulator assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Liftgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Can be caused by a faulty motor, cable, or latch.
- Solution: Diagnose the specific problem. Replacement of the motor, cable, or latch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Uconnect System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen freezing, system crashing, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation problems.
- Solution: Software update (if available). Replacement of the Uconnect head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software) - $800+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Stow ‘n Go Seating Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty folding or unfolding Stow ‘n Go seats, seats getting stuck.
- Solution: Inspect and lubricate the seat mechanisms. Repair or replacement of damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Chrysler Town & Country, while a practical and versatile minivan, is prone to certain issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The electrical problems, particularly those related to the TIPM and sliding doors, can be frustrating and costly to repair. Transmission issues, though not always severe, are also a common complaint. Engine problems like oil leaks and rocker arm failures, while less frequent, can lead to significant expenses. Overall, the 2013 Town & Country’s reliability is a mixed bag, with some owners experiencing few problems and others facing a recurring series of repairs. It is recommended to have a thorough inspection performed by a qualified mechanic before purchasing a used model, paying close attention to the TIPM, transmission, and potential oil leaks.