Are you in the market for a used van and considering a Chrysler Town and Country? Take your time with this – knowing which model years to avoid can save you from disappointment and expensive repairs.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the Chrysler Town and Country and exposing the years with the most reliability issues and common problems that can sour your ownership experience.
But don’t worry – we’ve also uncovered the absolute best years for Chrysler Town and Country, with proven reliability scores, so you can make an intelligent investment that will go the extra mile.
Don’t settle for a lemon – use our guide to find the perfect Chrysler Town and Country that will meet all your needs and keep you on the road for years to come.
Contents
- 1 Chrysler Town and Country Overview
- 2 Years to Avoid – The Main Problems
- 3 2005 Model
- 4 2008 Chrysler Town and Country
- 5 2010 Chrysler Town and Country
- 6 2011
- 7 2012
- 8 2014
- 9 Common Problems and Complaints
- 10 Electrical Issues
- 11 Engine Problems
- 12 Interior Issues
- 13 Safety Concerns
- 14 Blind Spot Detection Faults
- 15 Excessive Oil Consumption
- 16 Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
- 17 The Best Years for Chrysler Town and Country
- 18 Safety Features and Ratings
- 19 Reliability and Repair Concerns
- 20 Share this post:
Chrysler Town and Country Overview
The Chrysler Town and Country is a luxury minivan that was produced between the years 1989 and 2016. It gained a reputation for being a higher-class variation of the Dodge Caravan, with more standard features and technology, yet maintaining the same powertrain.
The Town and Country was designed as a minivan with families in mind. It offered plenty of room for car seats, groceries, and other essentials for having little ones.
With features like comfortable seating, ample storage space, and a smooth ride, your family was well taken care of in this popular minivan.
Throughout its production years, the Chrysler Town and Country underwent several redesigns and improvements, adapting to the needs and desires of its consumers.
Years to Avoid – The Main Problems
Let me show you the Chrysler Town and Country years to avoid due to reported issues and overall reliability concerns.
2005 Model
The 2005 Chrysler Town and Country is known for numerous problems. This model year has faced complaints concerning transmission, brake, and electrical system issues. It’s crucial to avoid this year when looking for a reliable vehicle.
2008 Chrysler Town and Country
Like the 2005 model, the 2008 Chrysler Town and Country also has a reputation for significant issues. Customers reported concerns with the transmission, brakes, and electrical systems. This model year should be avoided if you’re looking for a reliable minivan.
2010 Chrysler Town and Country
The 2010 Chrysler Town and Country is known to experience significant issues relating to the transmission and brake systems. Considering these common problems, avoiding this model year is best when shopping for a used Chrysler Town and Country.
2011
Continuing the trend, the 2011 Chrysler Town and Country model has been reported to have its fair share of problems. Transmission, brakes, and electrical system issues make this another model year to steer clear of.
2012
While not as problematic as the previous years, the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country still has some reported concerns with its electrical and brake systems. Although less severe than earlier models, it’s still worth noting that this year could present potential issues for buyers.
2014
Last on this list, the 2014 Chrysler Town and Country has faced complaints about its electrical system and engine. While the frequency of problems is lower than in earlier models, it’s essential to know that this year might also present challenges for prospective buyers.
Common Problems and Complaints
Let’s also consider a few common Chrysler Town and Country problems and complaints associated with this super van, mainly focusing on the years to avoid.
The worst years with most issues include electrical issues, engine problems, interior issues, safety concerns, blind spot detection faults, and excessive oil consumption.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are among the most frequent complaints for specific Chrysler Town and Country model years. Some common electrical problems include TIPM failure, hard shifting, and alternator failure. TIPM failure, in particular, can lead to the vehicle not starting and being costly to fix.
Engine Problems
Another primary concern with some Chrysler Town and Country model years is engine problems, such as head gasket failure, unintentional acceleration, and transmission failure. These issues can severely impact your driving experience and may result in expensive repairs.
Interior Issues
Interior issues have also been reported in some model years, such as 2005. Some common complaints include door locks not functioning accurately, power sliding doors not working, heated seats malfunctioning, and computer overheating issues.
Safety Concerns
Safety concerns with specific Chrysler Town and Country model years include ABS failure and premature brake wear. These issues can make the vehicle unsafe to drive and may require costly repairs.
Blind Spot Detection Faults
For some owners, blind spot monitor sensor failure has been an issue with their Chrysler Town and Country vehicles. A properly functioning blind spot detection system is essential for safe driving, so this issue should not be overlooked.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Lastly, excessive oil consumption is a problem reported by some Chrysler Town and Country owners. This issue forces you to refill the oil frequently and may indicate a more severe engine problem.
By being aware of these common problems and complaints, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a Chrysler Town and Country vehicle and avoid potentially costly repairs down the road.
TIPS: If you love Chevy Express, read our expert’s guide on Worst Chevy Express Years to Avoid Vs Best Models Used!
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
When shopping for a Chrysler Town and Country, you must be aware of any recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may affect the vehicle.
Recalls are safety concerns that must be fixed, while TSBs identify common issues and document solutions.
Manufacturers, however, are not required to make repairs at no cost for problems documented in a TSB.
For example, in 2016, Chrysler recalled specific Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan models manufactured between August 19 and August 27, 2015, due to safety concerns.
It is essential to check the recall history of the specific model year you’re interested in, as this can vary yearly.
TSBs are also helpful when considering a used Town and Country. For instance, in the 2013 model year, several TSBs were issued to address various issues.
To stay informed about TSBs for your vehicle, consider signing up for email alerts of new TSB notices.
The Best Years for Chrysler Town and Country
Can we now consider reliability, features, and overall satisfaction? There are also several best years for Chrysler Town and Country, earning amazing customers praises and positive reviews, including:
- 2016
- 2015
- 2004
- 1999
- 1998
These Chrysler Town and Country best years have seen the most minor issues and have proven to provide great value for your money.
Let’s take a closer look at why these years stand out among the rest:
| Year | Reason |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Last production year with modern features and improved reliability. |
| 2015 | Recent model year with similar features to the 2016 model but at a lower price point. |
| 2004 | Fewer major issues compared to other early 2000s models. |
| 1999 | Reliable performance and decent features for its age. |
| 1998 | Similar to the 1999 model with a slightly better overall value. |
It’s safe to compare it with other van options. Two popular alternatives are the Toyota Sienna and the Chrysler Pacifica, which became the successor of the Town and Country in 2017.
Go here to read our in-house detailed guide about Toyota Sienna years to avoid and years to buy, used!
Weighing the pros and cons of each option will help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Safety Features and Ratings
Throughout the years, the Chrysler Town and Country minivan has experienced changes in its safety features and ratings.
Your Town and Country could come equipped with various safety features, such as optional blind spot detection.
However, some model years are known to have specific issues, such as defective active head restraints in the 2011 Town and Country.
Regarding ratings, the Chrysler Town and Country has earned a 3.5 out of 5.0 rating on RepairPal’s Minivans category, coming in fourth overall.
It’s essential to consider this reliability rating when making your decision, as well as any specific safety concerns for particular model years.
Some of the Town and Country years to avoid due to safety and reliability issues include 2005, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014. By avoiding these specific years, you can better ensure your family’s safety and your peace of mind as a driver.
Reliability and Repair Concerns
Other significant areas of concern are potential reliability and repair concerns.
Throughout the history of this model, there have been some years where owners reported problems more frequently.
Avoid the 2005, 2008, 2010, and 2011 model years, as they are known for having electrical and engine issues like transmission malfunctions, brake faults, and electrical system failures that could become costly repairs.
In particular, the 2008, 2010, and 2011 models are reported to have the most significant electrical problems, so you should be cautious when considering vehicles from these years.
Reliable sources, like Consumer Reports and our in-house research, have raised concerns about these models.
As a potential owner, looking for common problems like engine stalls is essential, especially if you’re considering a high-mileage vehicle.
Some owners of the Town and country have reported engine-related issues that could be relevant to your decision-making process.
When you review a vehicle’s history, check the maintenance records and ownership details. RepairPal can be a helpful resource for better understanding the vehicle’s reliability and reported problems.
