When looking at vehicle reliability, there’s no doubt that Ford Motor Co. leads the pack for recalls. It’s a list no automaker wants to be on—let alone lead. It’s no wonder car owners let out a collective sigh when there’s a recall.
While Chrysler isn’t among the top 10 on the list, it still has a bad rap. Keep reading for 16 reasons to give Chrysler vehicles a wide berth.
Reliability Concerns
According to RepairPal.com, Chrysler’s reliability scores 3.5/5.0, or 11th place out of 32 car brands. The site adds that the average yearly repair expense for a Chrysler is $608, which means Chrysler ownership costs are higher than average.
Resale Value
Depreciation is another metric where Chrysler falls short. CarEdge says Chrysler doesn’t do too well on resale value. It adds that the brand ranks toward the bottom of the list for depreciation over three, five, and seven years.
Transmission Issues
Few car problems worry owners more than transmission issues. Unfortunately, transmission malfunction or outright failure isn’t uncommon with Chrysler vehicles. Class actions have been filed on behalf of Chrysler owners plagued with transmission problems.
Electrical Problems
Let’s face it. There is no perfect vehicle. However, some cars, trucks, and SUVs exhibit more problems than owners can manage. According to Chrysler Problems, electrical issues account for around 15% of all complaints filed by Chrysler owners. It adds that many complaints come from Town & Country minivan owners who are particularly hot under the collar.
High Repair Costs
As mentioned, Chrysler owners face higher-than-average ownership costs. CarEdge says Chrysler models have average maintenance and repair costs of about $9,884 over their first decade. It adds that there is a 28.82% chance that a Chrysler owner will face a hefty repair bill during the first decade of ownership. That’s 5.40% worse compared to other vehicle makers. So, it’s a case of buyer beware!
Rust and Corrosion
While many car brands experience rust issues as the years roll by, Chrysler owners see it as another problem they must contend with. One thing to remember is that annual rustproofing can help keep rust away or slow its spread.
Poor Interior Quality
Chrysler vehicles had a reputation for poor interior quality. One writer from Jalopnik says, “The 2000s were a bad time for car interiors, especially from Dodge, Chrysler, Chevrolet, and BMW.” If you look at an older Chrysler with a dirt-cheap price tag, you might get a woefully cheap interior that matches the purchase price.
Engine Problems
Chrysler is no stranger to engine issues. When you have some free time, Google “Chrysler engine problems” and be prepared to be amazed.
Questionable Build Quality
Chrysler previously admitted in an article that they dropped the ball on the quality front. “I don’t think quality has ever been … one of the things people would look at as one of Chrysler’s talking points,” said Bill Visnic, editorial director of the Society of Automotive Engineers, in an article from the Detroit Free Press. “Chrysler or FCA has always labored with the perception, at least, that it’s got subpar quality.”
Engine Overheating
Again, Google “Chrysler overheating.” You’ll find that overheating, a serious issue that can destroy an engine, isn’t uncommon. From the Chrysler 300 to the Chrysler 200 to the Chrysler Pacifica to other models under the Chrysler brand, engine overheating is a hot-button issue.
Below-average Safety Ratings
An article on HowStuffWorks lists ten vehicles with the worst safety ratings. It includes two Chrysler vehicles, namely the Chrysler 200 and the Chrysler Town & Country. If safety is a priority, perhaps you shouldn’t have a Chrysler vehicle on your shortlist.
Poor Handling
Some Chrysler owners complain about poor handling. One Pacifica Forums poster writes about experiencing “a problem for about a year and a half now with poor handling at speeds above 60 mph on my 2019 Pacifica. I constantly have to hold the steering wheel with two hands and steer. It feels like I’m pulling a trailer, and it’s throwing it around. Or like a strong, gusty side wind. Highway driving is very exhausting.” And this poster isn’t the only one complaining about handling issues.
Frequent Recalls
While not in the top 10 for recalls, Chrysler is on shaky ground if it wants the hearts and minds of vehicle owners (more on that later in #14). Chrysler owners are sick and tired of getting recall notices in the mail. It happened again recently when Chrysler recalled 33,000+ Ram 1500 pickup trucks due to electronic stability controls. ‘Nuff said!
Lack of Brand Loyalty
It appears Chrysler owners aren’t nearly as passionate about their vehicles as owners of other brands. It’s not that there aren’t any Chrysler loyalists; there must be some. However, many Chrysler owners have that status because they got a deal they couldn’t refuse.
Limited Dealer Network
If you own a Chrysler, you might have trouble finding Chrysler service stations where you are. It’s not that there aren’t any, but the service stations may be few and far between in your neck of the woods.
Low Brand Prestiege
You might settle on a Chrysler if you want something to get from point A to point B. However, Chrysler lacks the prestige of other brands. You won’t hear many people referring to their Chrysler vehicles as “cool” unless they’re talking about the AC.
Skip Chryslers if Looking for a Vehicle
For these reasons, you’ll want to give Chryslers a wide berth. There are too many options available to settle on a Chrysler.
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