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Chrysler · Known Issues

1994 Chrysler LHS Problems: 3 Known Issues

1994 model year · 350+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1994 Chrysler LHS has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption with 180 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • LHS Transmission2
  • LHS Engine1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission2
  • Engine1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ

All 3 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS20012000199919981997199619951994
Community reported
170 owners

On the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 3.5L V6, the 42LE 4-speed automatic transmission in the LHS shares the same failure patterns as the Intrepid, Concorde, and 300M. Solenoid pack failures, torque converter clutch issues, and internal clutch pack wear lead to harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode. The LHS's heavy curb weight and 3.5L V6 torque output stress the transmission. The solenoid pack and transmission connector are the most common failure points and can be serviced without removing the transmission.

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

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or delayed gear shifts
  • Transmission slipping
  • Stuck in limp mode (2nd gear only)
  • Shudder at highway speed during TCC lockup
  • Check engine light with P0700 series codes

How to Fix

Typical repair cost:$200 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 170 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence170 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS, the automatic transmission develops solenoid pack failures and valve body wear causing harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and limp mode. The transmission control module can also develop cold solder joints causing intermittent issues.

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

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh 1-2 shift
  • Limp mode (2nd gear only)
  • Delayed engagement from Park
  • Check engine light

How to Fix

Replace solenoid pack and filter. Inspect the valve body for wear. If the TCM is suspected, check connections and re-solder cold joints if possible. Use only Mopar ATF+4 fluid.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
180 owners

On the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 3.5L V6, the 3.5L SOHC V6 in the LHS develops excessive oil consumption over time, typically burning 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles. The primary causes are worn valve stem seals that allow oil to leak past the valve guides into the combustion chamber, and piston ring wear. Oil sludge formation in the head drain-back passages contributes to the problem by restricting oil return flow. Blue smoke on startup is the hallmark symptom. The issue is progressive and worsens with mileage. Extended oil change intervals and conventional oil accelerate the problem.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Concorde

Common Symptoms

  • Blue smoke from exhaust on cold startup
  • Oil consumption of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles
  • Oil fouled spark plugs
  • Low oil pressure at idle when hot
  • Sludge buildup on valve covers and oil cap

How to Fix

Confirm the source of oil consumption by checking for blue smoke after an overnight sit, inspecting spark plugs for oil fouling, performing a compression and leak-down test, and removing the valve covers to inspect for sludge and restricted drain-back passages. If compression is good, replace the valve stem seals on both cylinder heads, clean the head drain-back areas and valve covers, install fresh spark plugs, and switch to a high-detergent synthetic oil with shorter 3,000-5,000 mile service intervals; this repair typically runs about $800-$1,800 depending on labor. If leak-down or compression testing shows worn piston rings or cylinder wear, the permanent fix is an engine overhaul or replacement short block/used engine, which commonly costs $2,500-$5,000+. Continue monitoring oil level closely between services to prevent low-oil damage and hot idle oil pressure problems.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 180 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence180 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.

Campaign #03V03500005/02/2003

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN VAN, WAGON, PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES." THE FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTOR MAY NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.

Campaign #01V11900011/04/2001

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES (NON-SUNROOF ONLY) FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT."

Campaign #01V27300002/08/2001

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler LHS problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1994 Chrysler LHS has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure, 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption, 41TE/42LE Transmission Solenoid and Shift Issues. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chrysler LHS reliable?

The 1994 Chrysler LHS has 3 known issues documented across 350+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 42LE Automatic Transmission 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 LHS problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler LHS issues range from $50 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $200-$3,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure?

The 42LE 4-speed automatic transmission in the LHS shares the same failure patterns as the Intrepid, Concorde, and 300M. Solenoid pack failures, torque converter clutch issues, and internal clutch pack wear lead to harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode. The LHS's heavy curb wei… Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: high.

What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption?

The 3.5L SOHC V6 in the LHS develops excessive oil consumption over time, typically burning 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles. The primary causes are worn valve stem seals that allow oil to leak past the valve guides into the combustion chamber, and piston ring wear. Oil sludge for… Repairs typically run $50-$1,500. Severity: medium.

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 350+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #00V36600009/11/2000

SEAT BELTS

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SEAT BELT SHOULDER HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE TURNING LOOP (ATL) TOP MOUNTING BOLT WAS INADEQUATELY MANUFACTURED.

Campaign #00V03400004/02/2000

+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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

What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 41TE/42LE Transmission Solenoid and Shift Issues?

The automatic transmission develops solenoid pack failures and valve body wear causing harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and limp mode. The transmission control module can also develop cold solder joints causing intermittent issues. Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.