2001 Chrysler Town and Country EX 3.8L from North America

Summary:

For a big family (we have 5 kids) this vehicle does nearly everything admirably

Faults:

We have experienced no functional problems in almost 18 months of ownership.

The only complaint I can make is a piece of weatherstripping from the front of the sliding doors fell off within a few months of ownership. This resulted in a very slight wind noise increase, but no water leaks as this was a secondary seal. The dealer took care of it promptly, but had to order replacements.

General Comments:

Overall Chrysler has done their homework with this vehicle. It's not perfect, but it has been very good. Given that a minivan this is basically a 4200 lb. box, it is styled well and the handling and brakes are quite satisfactory. The 215 HP V6 is quiet and relatively powerful with good torque. It is as quick fully loaded as the old 3.3 L Grand Caravan is empty, and much quieter and more refined. Fuel economy is about the same.

Except in a few cases where I have fooled the transmission with throttle transients, shift quality is excellent. They did a good job in selecting gear ratios, but they better provide a 5 speed auto available in the next one.

The CD+cassette sound system is very good, but all the buttons could be a little more straight forward to use. It takes too much concentration from the road.

I can feel some high frequency vibration transmitted through the accelerator pedal which isn't terribly annoying, but is noticable at certain engine speeds. If the rest of it wasn't so quiet and solid feeling, I might not notice.

The power sliding door on the passenger side works well, but is heavy and awkward to close manually. It is a big contrast to the driver side door which doesn't include the power option. In my opinion, the power sliding doors are a gimmick with relatively little practical value. Same for the power rear door.

The removable seats are still too heavy and awkward. I would welcome seats that are lighter, or even stow-able as in similar competitors. I can manage it, but my wife would have a difficult job on her hands. If the aircraft industry can make seat frames out of aluminum extrusions, why can't the car guys?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th August, 2002

2001 Chrysler Town and Country Limited 3.8L from North America

Summary:

Wonderful features with above exceptions

Faults:

Brakes are weak and the pedal travel is excessive before braking begins.

Engine has an apparent "miss" or misfiring problem at normal road speeds. It feels to the driver as if bumps are in the road. Most noticeable with A/C and cruise on. Very annoying to drive with this problem. Chrysler hasn't been able to solve the problem, but is aware of of its existence for at least a year now. Dealership Service department advised that I start the arbitration process. Chrysler wants to try once more and will test drive the van soon.

General Comments:

I'll do an update once it is decided one way or the other.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd April, 2002

10th May 2013, 23:03

Have the same problem with my car sometimes missing on the road. What is the arbitration process?

2001 Chrysler Town and Country Limited 3.8 from North America

Summary:

Best minivan around

Faults:

Dealer had to replace the oxygen sensor.

No other problems so far.

General Comments:

Best looking minivan around. Has a lot of room. Drives very smooth. AWD works great.

The automatic side doors, automatic tailgate and luggage organizer have made my life much easier.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th January, 2002

15th Oct 2004, 03:47

I would steer clear of this vehicle. I own a 2001 Town and Country and it has been a reliability nightmare. One of the poorest quality vans out there. Looks don't make a reliable vehicle. The car has enough electrical gremlins to scare anyone. I won't take the car out of town for fear of another breakdown (4 so far in the first 50,000 miles. Don't take my word for it, research the resale value and reliability in consumer reports at your local library. Shop smart and do your homework. Don't be the next Chrysler sucker! Don't think that you will be "one of the lucky ones"!!!