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Chrysler · Known Issues

1996 Chrysler Cirrus Problems: 3 Known Issues

1996 model year · 200+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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1996 · All trims · All engines

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 200+ owner reports, the 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure ($800-$2,000 repair) and 41TE Automatic Transmission Solenoid Failure ($250-$2,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure with 200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Cirrus Engine2
  • Cirrus Transmission1
  • Recalls18
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Transmission1
  • Recalls18
  • FAQ

All 3 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS200019991998199719961995
Community reported
200 owners

On the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus 2.5L V6, the Cirrus equipped with the Mitsubishi-sourced 2.5L V6 is prone to head gasket failure, often caused by overheating episodes. The engine's aluminum heads warp easily when overheated, making a simple gasket replacement insufficient without machining the heads.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Concorde

Common Symptoms

  • Overheating repeatedly
  • White smoke from exhaust
  • Coolant mixing with oil
  • Oil milky on dipstick
  • Coolant loss with no visible leak
  • Bubbling in coolant reservoir

How to Fix

Replace the head gaskets and have both cylinder heads checked for warpage and machined flat if needed. Replace the thermostat and inspect the cooling system for the original overheat cause. The 2.4L four-cylinder is more reliable if available.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,000

Research This Issue

Based on 200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus, engine mounts and the front (dogbone) mount break down, causing excessive engine movement and vibration. The transverse engine layout puts heavy stress on the mounts during acceleration and braking.

This issue also affects: Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Spirit

Common Symptoms

  • Vibration at idle
  • Clunk shifting into gear
  • Engine rocks on acceleration
  • Vibration felt through steering wheel

How to Fix

Replace all three engine/transmission mounts as a set. The upper (torque strut/dogbone) mount typically fails first. Aftermarket mounts from Anchor or DEA are affordable alternatives to OE.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus, the 41TE (A604) automatic transmission is prone to solenoid pack failure causing erratic shifting, limp mode, and harsh engagement. The 41TE was one of the first fully electronic automatic transmissions and reliability suffered.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Concorde

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh shifting
  • Stuck in 2nd gear (limp mode)
  • Delayed engagement
  • Slipping between gears

How to Fix

Replace solenoid pack assembly and fluid filter. Use only ATF+4 fluid. The updated solenoid pack from Mopar addresses the original design weaknesses. A full transmission rebuild may be needed if internal damage has occurred.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $2,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls18 recalls

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT

QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BALL JOINTS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SOCKET MAY HAVE BEEN EXCESSIVELY HARDENED WHICH COULD CAUSE IT TO CRACK NEAR THE RETAINING RING GROOVE ALLOWING THE BALL STUD TO SEPARATE UNDER IMPACT LOAD. THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS WERE SOLD AS FOUR PART NUMBERS, D10945, D10946, G10945, AND G10946. THE AFFECTED CONTROL ARMS, D10945 AND D10946, ARE STAMPED WITH THE FOLLOWING DATES ON THE BALL JOINTS: 134308, 135708, 100109, 102709, 104109, 105509, 107609, 108909, 110309, 113209, AND 116609. THE G10945 AND G10946 ARE THE SAME PART AS THE D10945 AND D10946 RESPECTIVELY. THEY ARE LABELED DIFFERENTLY DEPENDING ON THE AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER.

Campaign #09E05600009/10/2009

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

FEDERAL-MOGUL IS RECALLING CERTAIN REPLACEMENT CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES, PART NUMBERS K7425, 10945, FA4510X, K7427, 10946, AND FA4611X, SOLD FOR USE ON VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE BALL JOINT ON THE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE BALL STUD TO WEAR THROUGH THE CONTROL ARM HOUSING RESULTING IN NOISE AND/OR SEPARATION OF THE BALL STUD FROM THE HOUSING.

Campaign #10E05900027/12/2010
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Other Chrysler Models

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler Cirrus problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 200+ owner reports, the 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure, 41TE Automatic Transmission Solenoid Failure, Engine and Transmission Mount Deterioration. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chrysler Cirrus reliable?

The 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has 3 known issues documented across 200+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure and 41TE Automatic Transmission Solenoid Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler Cirrus problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler Cirrus issues range from $150 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure, typically costs $800-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure?

The Cirrus equipped with the Mitsubishi-sourced 2.5L V6 is prone to head gasket failure, often caused by overheating episodes. The engine's aluminum heads warp easily when overheated, making a simple gasket replacement insufficient without machining the heads. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.

What is the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus 41TE Automatic Transmission Solenoid Failure?

The 41TE (A604) automatic transmission is prone to solenoid pack failure causing erratic shifting, limp mode, and harsh engagement. The 41TE was one of the first fully electronic automatic transmissions and reliability suffered. Repairs typically run $250-$2,000. Severity: high.

What is the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus Engine and Transmission Mount Deterioration?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 200+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

EQUIPMENT

IMPORT PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 30,351 FUEL FILTERS SOLD TO AND BRANDED BY THE AFFINIA GROUP AS CARQUEST P/N 86523, NAPA P/N 3523, AND WIX P/N 33523 FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE FILTERS MAY DEVELOP A LEAK IN THE HOSE ASSEMBLY AND/OR CONNECTORS DUE TO IMPROPERLY ADHERED LINE CONNECTORS.

Campaign #09E04300007/07/2009

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4 LITER ENGINES, THE HIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE MAY PREMATURELY HEAT AGE AND DEVELOP A LEAK.

Campaign #06V00100005/01/2006

CHILD SEAT

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." SOME OF THE OWNER'S MANUALS FOR THESE VEHICLES ARE MISSING INSTRUCTIONS THAT PROVIDE A STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE, INCLUDING DIAGRAMS, FOR PROPERLY ATTACHING A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM'S TETHER STRAP TO THE TETHER ANCHORAGE.

Campaign #00V36600009/11/2000

+ 13 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

Engine mounts and the front (dogbone) mount break down, causing excessive engine movement and vibration. The transverse engine layout puts heavy stress on the mounts during acceleration and braking. Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: low.