1988 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible review from North America
"Cheap Fun Reliability"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The only design problem I've fought is the valve cover gasket. Third try seemed to fix it (with a $50 gasket!)
Age related problems: MAP sensor, A/C, torque converter lockup solenoid, EGR valve, shocks, odometer gear, vacuum hoses, oil pressure sender.
Now everything works and there are ZERO engine fault codes!
There is some suspension squeaks and noise, but the poor car is driven daily in Mexico where the roads are bad and the speed bumps are severe.
It is completely reliable and I have less than $3500 in the car.
It came with one surprise: a cracked block. I put rubber freeze plugs and radiator sealer in it, and drive - drive - drive. 200 mile trips are no problem.
General comments?
Very comfortable driver's seat. Others only acceptable.
The car is 18 years old, and the interior is basically flawless. No cracks in the vinyl seats or dash, only some fading of the carpet.
Handling is good for a small coupe, and better than the trucks and vans I'd been driving. The front end does flex some, being a convertible.
A/C is good and cold now (still using R-12).
If I could just talk myself into a new $500 top...
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| 1987 - LeBaron Turbo coupe 2.2L turbo A very satisfying older car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1988 |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L TBI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 95000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 110000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Ranger |
| Date of Entry | 6th July, 2006 |