1999 Chrysler Concorde LXI review from North America

Plastic shield between windshield and hood flew off on the highway. Replacement after expired warranty: $125.

The engine cooling fan went out. Cost for replacement, labor, and various parts covered under warranty: $600.

The air conditioning system needed replacement twice while under 70,000 miles. Total cost if car had not been covered under warranty would been about $3000.

Currently needs transmission re-build or replacement, two months past warranty. Cost at dealership: $2000.

Two of the four power windows needed fixing. This was not covered under warranty. Cost $550.

Losing oil due to leaking oil pan seal. Again not covered under extended warranty.

Cost: $250.

Shift cable snapped while putting car from park into reverse, not covered under warranty. Cost: $75 towing + $300 = $375.

Total expenses not including standard oil changes, transmission fluid, brakes, and tire: $6900.

Cost of used car: $13,000

Cost of repairs: $6900

Total: $19,900.

The car is comfortable, spacious, sleek looks, and a decent sized engine. For all the perks, this car is quite affordable, but there are hidden costs.

I had heard that Chrysler improved its reliability since its merge with Daimler, but every Chrysler my immediate family has owned has had needed both the air conditioning and transmission replaced while still being relatively new. This has been the case with seven different cars and minivans.

If you decide to buy a Chrysler I recommend you sell or trade it in before 40,000 miles. Even so be ready to shell out some money for repairs.

This car has a lot of great features at a low price, but the cost of frequent service on the car far outweighs its positive attributes.

While the extended warranty paid for about half of the above expenses, dealerships often found excuses not to honor warranty despite supposed being coverage.

I will never buy another Chrysler product again.