1989 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible from North America - Comments

Head gasket blew.

I had to replace the engine.

Piston rod broke on second engine.

Replaced timing belt.

Cable to the rear left window snapped.

The fact that it was a convertible made the car. That's about the only thing I really liked about it.

The back seat is cramped.

It handled well in the snow.

Not really a lot of trunk space.

Extremely fun to cruise around in.

This review is a little off. Chrysler never made a 2.0 automatic for the Le Baron. The 2.0 was developed for the Neon. The Chrysler 4's were only 2.2 or 2.5 for Le Barons and other K derivatives and they are extraordinarily reliable if routine maintenance is done routinely (change the oil, replace plugs). If any engine is not maintained it will not last. There are many 2.2s and 2.5s with over 200,000 miles. I own one and it's a Le Baron convertible with a turbo. 210,000 miles and no major mechanical difficulties. Do not bash a car if you don't know anything about it and never took care of it.

I would have to disagree with you on that. Chrysler did make a 2.0, 4 cylinder for a LeBaron. I should know, I have one.

There is no such thing as a 2.0L 4cyl. in any U.S. spec Chrysler Lebaron. Maybe an export only, and that's a stretch. Chrysler didn't even start making a 2.0L 4cyl. engine in U.S. cars until 1995 in the "new" Dodge Neon.

I have to chime in on this. Verbatim, I blew a head gasket, replaced the engine, threw a rod in the second engine, replaced that, put a new transmission in, and I still am struggling to keep the car running. This all started at about 230-240,000 miles. I've got the 2.5 turbo and have been happy with the car after getting away from the dealer's maintenance crew. I've been getting low oil pressure readings on the gauge after long trips, and the shop still can't figure it out. Pressure looks good to them. I had it when we put the first engine in, took it to the shop who said it looked okay, then it threw the rod. They replaced it under warranty. I must be at 260 now, but the speedo hasn't been working right since the 230-240 mark so it's anybody's guess.

OK wow! 260k miles? Well no wonder you're having these kinds of strange mechanical troubles. I'd hate for you that you had to replace the engine and still have engine issues. It was either a bad used motor or a crappy rebuilt is my guess. If this car is only on it's second transmission at 260k miles, it's doing excellent for an American car, believe me.

I like to address the complaints.

1. All convertibles have a smaller back seat the mechanism for the top also takes away from space from the trunk.

2. Driving a convertible in the winter spells an early death for your top.

3. Refer to point response #1.

4. Definitely fun to drive.