1988 Chrysler LeBaron convertible review from North America

The radiator has been replaced twice at roughly 80,000 mile intervals.

The head gasket has failed at 110,000 miles and again at 175,000.

The starter has been replaced twice at roughly 90,000 mile intervals.

The water pump has been replaced once at 125,000 miles.

The convertible roof has been replaced twice in ten years.

Power headlight door motor needed repair once when the vehicle was 11 years old.

Rear windows are cable-driven and prone to malfunction.

I have loved this car since the first day I drove it home. It has been a joy to own, very inexpensive to operate, fuel-efficient, and especially on a warm day the MOST FUN TO DRIVE! The front wheel drive even made it safe enough to drive in New England's winters.

In nearly 150,000 miles this car has cost less to maintain and repair than a concurrently-owned Dodge Stratus cost over only two years and 39,000 miles.

Nothing I can write could possibly explain my affection for this model or how impressed I've been by its quality.

Sadly, as a New England car, it was only a matter of time before the body began rusting. I now find that I will soon have to part with my beloved J-car. Its unibody construction has left it unsuitable for welding and not safe enough to continue driving much longer.

I'm crushed to be losing what feels like an old friend and can only hope to have the same life span from my next vehicle. If you can find one in good physical condition, it is the best car you will EVER own.

They truly "Don't Make Them Like This Anymore."