Chrysler Town and Country EX/LX/LXi/Limited

ghreynolds

Purchased a new T&C Limited last week with all options except AWD Great Van, However there substantial noise from the roof rack a speeds above 35 mph. Noise Increases as speed increases.
I have advised the dealer and they will trouble-shoot as soon as I get time to take it to them. Any one have the same problem. The noise is so loud its very annoying. Thanks Glenn

midwesterner

I am geting ready to purchase a T&C LXi Fwd with the following options...
3.8 V6
Heated Leather seats
Power Lift Gate
Roof Rack
Side Air bags
Traction control
29U package (and 2DU, anyone know what this is?)
it also has a Full size spare and a a 4 disc changer.

I'm able to pick it up for about $600 under invoice.

The problem I am facing is that I want to take the good financing, and these things are flying off the lots. I would wait until the end of the month, but am afraid that one with the options I'm after will not be available, and the .9 or 2.9 or what have you is up on 4/3.

Would love some replies on this one sooner rather than later. Oh, and one more thing, this is one of the few that I can find that is the Champagne that I want.

To read the car buying strategy here on edmunds, I should be paying at least $1600 less than I am. But, unfortunately, there are more people out there that don't research and just buy for whatever the dealer will give them, so If I don't buy, the dealer knows that the next person will.

Dang Chrysler for making such a well thought out vehicle!

deacon1984

My T&C LTD also has the problem with the wind noise from the roof rack. I have tried moving the cross bars to different positions, with no luck. Have not had it back to the dealer yet to hear what they have to say.

smart_alec

A fix was announced in February. New, quiet, replacement roof rack crossbars can be obtained from your dealer. Check with the service department.
I purchased a T&C Limited this week at $1,300 under what two other dealers here in Southern Calif called their "$300 over dealer's invoice price."

midwesterner

Was the $300.00 over invoice price actually $300.00 over (did they show you their invoice, I'm guessing they did)?
Also, did you take the $1500.00 cash incentive (or the $1000.00 plus 5.9%)?
I'm considering giving both of these up for the better finance rates (if I take the 5.9% then I'm in your price ballpark). Not trying to start a flame war, just curious. I also noticed that I came in over $1000.00 under Edmund's TMV for a vehicle equipped with the options I'm looking at.

Thanks for your input.

smart_alec

Nowadays the dealers invoice is the first paper handed to a prospective customer. Dealers invoices vary greatly from one dealer to another. One may have a $45 "document fee", another $186. Advertising fees many be $200 here, or $650 at the dealer over there. The only thing that matters any more is the "out-the-door price."
My T&C Ltd "Factory Invoice" price with trailer tow, heated seats, and 4-disc radio options was $32,577. The license cost $479, tax $2,478, shipping $655. With shipping cost, tax, license, and other fees added, the out-the-door price was $34,500. The dealer kept the $1,500 rebate. I found carbuyingtips.com very helpful.

kcc3

Does anyone have any experience with the durability and or cleaning of the Limited leather seats with suede inserts? I like the look and feel of the suede, but I am concerned about the durability and ability to clean the suede. The minivan will be used to transport my new addition to the family and will be kept for at least five years. There maybe a second child to test out the suede during that time. Thank you.

ryoon

Does anyone know when the 3.5 engine will be available? I'm curious if anyone has heard if this is a "proven" engine and whether it would be worth upgrading to it.

midwesterner

Have you considered stepping down to the LXi. I know people don't like to hear that, but the LXi can be outfitted with most everything the Limited has (maybe not memory seats), and doesn't havethe suede to deal with just all leather. Plus it has a split rear bench, which I was to understand can not be had in the Limited (much easier to take out a big seat in halves rather than all at once). I've got three kids myself and didn't consider the limited based on the suede. Ever see a suede shoe after it's been worn for a while? You probably could keep it clean , but that would be pretty high maintenance, plus it's probably more apt to absorb a stain than hard leather.
Just food for thought. I'm picking up my LXi tomorrow.

ghreynolds

Smart Alec
Thanks for the response on an announced fix by Chyrsler. I have an appointment for dealer to check noise on Mar 22. What is the source of the information for replacing the roof rack bars. My dealer claims to have no knowledge of this fix.

Thanks Glen

bulkleycorp

Hi

Moving from a Ford Expedition to a new car. Looking at wagons now, but no matter which way I analyze this..the answer is minivan.

Looking at the Odyssey, Sienna, and T&C Limited. Biggest concern is quality with T&C. Issue with Odyssey and Siennna is BORING.

Any comments/experiences with 2001 T&C wagon appreciated.

smart_alec

ghreynolds,
This is excerpted from a fax sent by my dealer.
Bulletin NO: 23-002-01
Group: Body
Date: 16 Feb 2001
Subject: Roof Rack Wind Noise/Howl Sound.
Overview: This bulletin involves replacing the roof rack crossbars.
Models: 2001 Town & Country/Voyager/Caravan.
Symptom/condition: A wind noise, possibly described as howl sound, may be heard when driving at highway speeds. The roof rack crossbars can be the cause of this type of sound.
Diagnosis/repair procedures: Replace the roof rack crossbars.
My dealer's service department suggested that we call two weeks prior to coming in so that they can have the new crossbars on hand. The bulletin goes on to list different part numbers for different colored crossbars.

smart_alec

ryoon,
Elsewhere on the internet I saw a reference to this subject. The author, who seemed knowledgeable, stated the 3.5 engine option for the T&C was on indefinite hold. He said the company's present financial situation combined with the market downturn plus limited interest added with the difficulty in positioning it in the van (it sits front to back instead of sideways) has put this option on hold.
The new, improved, 3.8 liter developing 215 hp seems very smooth and powerful, and it burns 87 instead of 89 octane fuel. I have 280 miles on my T&C so I speak with authority!

ryoon

I appreciate the info.

smart_alec

Here's a temporary fix while waiting for the replacement bars to arrive at your dealers:
Apply a length of duct tape centered on the top surface of the bar along the entire length of the bar. Be certain to cover the margins on each side of the black plastic insert where it meets the metal.
The fine crevice where the plastic meets the metal is where the noise is produced.
Better not let the tape remain on the bar for a great length of time. The sun may cook it into the paint.

cdavidhord

I noticed a previous post on this subject. My 96 LXI now has the airbag light on and simultaneously the cruise control stopped working. Was variable for about a month, and their related function was well correlated until both sustained. Haven't been to the dealer yet. Anyone with this problem and knows what has happened?

laoki

My airbag light went on over the weekend, and seems to be related to turning corners. It was intermittent at first, then solid, then it was off for a long drive (200 miles) then came back on again in the city, where I was making turns again. Cruise control worked ok. I am taking it in Monday to have it looked at. Mine is also a 96 lxi. with 45000 miles on it. Had the trasmission die 4 months ago, the fule level sensor failed two weeks ago. The fuel sensor required the fuel pump to be replaced.

drew_

Hi all, I know some of you have been anxiously awaiting the '01 Chrysler minivan's IIHS 40mph offset crash test results. I'm happy to report that tomorrow's Dateline NBC Tuesday at 10pm EST/9pm CST will be airing the results of the crash test. Please check your local TV listings. The IIHS tested a Dodge Grand Caravan, but the results (since the platforms are the same) applies to the Chrysler Voyager and Town & Country as well.

Also included in this round of IIHS crash tests will be the Hyundai Elantra, the Honda Civic, the MB C-class, the Ford Focus, and the Dodge Stratus. Note that all of the models that are being crash tested have been substantially or completely redesigned, and are model year 2001 vehicles. Dateline is only covering the IIHS test and has no say in the results.


Drew
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enviroman

Had the air bag light come on and the horn stop working on my '96 LXi. Dealer diagnosed the problem as a broken clock spring that needed replaced. The part is inside of steering column. Price for the repair was around $200. Hope this helps.

eneth

Keep your receipts - you may eventually be reimbursed if there's a recall. The Federal Government is now investigating just that component, in a probe of airbags that fail to deploy in DaimlerChrysler minivans.

http://www.auto.com/industry/iwirb20_20010320.htm

drew_

Sorry all, unfortunately the IIHS didn't release the crash test results of the '01 Chrysler minivan. Look for it soon though. Tonight's Dateline NBC coverage of the IIHS tests will be interesting, nonetheless, so be sure to catch it.


Drew
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cson

Dear smart alec,
Do you know where that web cite was re: the 3.5 engine being on hold. I'm currently looking at the limited but I really don't need the minivan until late this year or early next year (3rd child in October) & would really prefer having a stronger engine & awd - otherwise I may look at the acura minivan (the pseudo truck).

eneth

Look under the March 16 posting here:

http://www.allpar.com/news.html

ferous

I have a '96 GC 3.3L with 93,000 miles on it.
Problem (today's - not the last 5 years worth), the "service engine soon" light came on today so I turned the key back and forth 3 times to run the system check and I get the flashing code of 1-2-2-1-5-5. Does anybody know what that code means?

smart_alec

cson,
I don't remember, but #275 by eneth, above, is more authoritive.

ottojf1

I had the same problem with 1996 T&C LXI Had to replace clock spring. Cost app $180. Yesterdays newspapers talked about this problem. Will there be a recall? Will we get our money back?

eruceht

Picked up our new Limited last Friday, payed $5,000 below MSRP. That includes the $1,000 cash back with 2.9% financing, a total of $31,435. Has the heated seats, tow package and CD changer. Love the van but there is some wind noise from the roof rack and has some noise at 2100 rpm but I would have never noticed it if I hadn't read about it on town hall. I'll check with the dealer about the replacement roof rack bars.

lingf15e

Has anyone actually had the replacement cross bars installed, or talked with a dealer about having them installed. I'm just curious as to whether or not I can expect the run-around with the dealer when I ask for them.

howie99mn

Does anyone know if there is an overdrive gear on the T&C for highway driving. My understanding is most cars have 4 speeds, but there is cars with 4 speeds plus overdrive? Is this correct.

I ask since overdrive improves highway EPA and the T&C is 2 miles less than the Odyessey.

I don't think that the Odyessey has one either

smart_alec

Howie99mn,
It has a lockup feature in 4th, but no overdrive in addition to to the 4 speeds. Overdrive gives a quieter ride, extends engine and engine accessory life, but has no effect on gas mileage. Gross weight, tire and wind resistance, and degree of acceleration and braking are what matters. If additional gears would magically improve mileage, there would be a race in the industry to add them!

howie99mn

Found this posted in soccer mom new minivans.

clockspring circuits on Chrsler minivans will not help, and a major recall could put some serious pressure on the DC lashup.

Has anyone heard of this problem? I know that the minivan is scheduled to be crash tested by the end of the month.

jthore

I'm in the market for a new mini van. I'm going to look at a Honda, a Mazda, and possibility a Chrysler.

My concern is the reliability of the Chrysler. I had one several years ago and in the first year I had two transmissions and several other major problems.

Can anyone tell me the luck they've had with the Chrysler mini vans, especially after about 50,000 miles?
Thanks, John

bondguy

I was interested in the cargo organizer for my 2001 T&C LXi...the dealer charges @ $250 for this accessory. I ordered one that looks exactly the same...the pop up one...from Herringtoncatalog.com for $79.99 yesterday...will let you know how it fits and works when I get it...it just looks like a great feature to have.

eruceht

Because this is my first Chrysler I have no personal experience with their reliabiltily. However this months Consumer Reports new car issue shows Chrysler vans having a average reliability rating for the last three years (98,99 and 00) which is very good for a mini van. The Honda received a average rating for 99 but and a below average for 00. After owning a Chrysler mini van for couple of weeks I can say that this is a very well made van and is much more pleasant to drive than the others and I personal feel very good about my decision to buy this van. Drive the others first and then the Chrysler. lingf15e... my wife took are van to the dealer yesterday about the roof racks and they ordered them for us without any run-around.

cheeze

I am dealing on a 2001 Limited T&C. I have all limited options plus the 4 disc changer and the tow package. The vehicle is also FWD. The dealer will let me take it for $31,315 which includes the destination charge. MSRP is $35,815. Good deal or what? Appears to be a buy yet this is the first price the dealer gave me, I might be able to deal more. Does anyone know of any more factory rebates coming besides the current $1500?

sparkolounger

The main difference between the organizer you ordered and the one Chrysler advertises is the most important feature.... the ability to raise and lower the "shelf" to provide double storage. For example, you can put a stroller or set of golf clubs under the shelf and groceries on top. However, I have yet to talk to a Chrysler or Dodge dealer that can actually order one!

motorhead3

I have a 1998 Town and Country LXI and have had very few problems with it. Initially I had a problem with the drive belt coming off during a heavy rainstorm. The dealer put the belt back on and it did come off again under similar conditions a short time later. Finally it was replaced and I never had a problem with it after then. My van has just under 32,000 miles and so I cannot relate any experiences concerning maintenance problems over 50,000 miles. Currently my local dealer is offering great deals on new cars, and along with the rebates I am saving about $7000 off the sticker price of a new Limited which I will be taking ownership of next week.

wipeout33

Does anyone know why Chrysler discontinued the Champagne and Shale green colors available. I purchased a T&C LX with sunscreen, cd player, full size spare, heavy duty cooling, block heater, and 50k mile warranty vice 36k, for $22,500 (including rebate). The dealer called on my build sheet and said these colrs were being built out. Does anyone have a Steel blue version? The pics I have seen look grey or flat black in color. I am stationed in the U.S. Navy in Japan and returning in July. I haven't even test driven this yet, the closest available was a Caravan SE. I have been reading the messages since last Sept. and everybody's inputs have had an impact on what I purchased, Thanks. It's really hard looking for a vehicle overseas, and I don't have the time to look once arrived in the U.S. I really do not want to switch to a different model or make of van since I am locked in on the rebate and price.

eruceht

Sounds like a good deal but the MSRP you listed is off by about $600.00, base price is $35,840. My Limited with heated seats, tow package and disk changer was $36,435. The T&C is selling well so I wouldn't wait for better incentives and the current ones end April 3rd.

drellery

any one purchased extended warranty for chrysler t & c 2001 van i had price offered of 1000 dollars
100/deductible added care 1600 retail price from
dealer/manufacturer

enviroman

Prices on LXi's continue to come down in the Dallas / Ft. Worth area. Saw an ad for a 2001 LXi with U package, CD, roof rack, aluminum rims, liftgate, and side airbags for $25,988. I have seen some posts indicating that T&C sales are picking-up while have seen other info that they are still dropping. Does anyone have an idea if the current rebates/incentives are going to change? I hate to wait on the sidelines for a better deal to come along and miss a great buy.

tall_guy

I was told by a dealer that the 50/50 rear bench will fit in the middle row. Has anyone tried this? I am hoping that I can have my dealer do a parts order from the seat manufacturer and get two (2) 50/50 splits to put in an EX. That way I can seat 8 bodies and still flip one of the middle splits for easier loading of the rear. This should work just like the bucket seats in the middle that flip forward to give easy access to the rear.

Anyone tried this, or have thoughts to add about why this would not work?

thanks

danabeale

This may be sac religious in this forum but wondering if anyone would be willing to share their thoughts as to why they'd go with the T&C vs. a top of the line Voyager (aside from the overall size difference).

The T&Cs just seem to get so pricy with any options.

DRB

inky

MSRP over $35k, local dealer has deals posted in local paper all the time and at Meltonsales.com
Looks good to me, I just bought a Sienna but thought you all would like to know.
INKY

sportsmom3

We have had 4 Plymouth Voyager/Chrysler T & C.
Our current one is a 1996 T & C with 78,000 miles and we have had no mechanical problems at all. However, our 1994 Plymouth Voyager had us worried about the transmission and we traded it before there was a problem. But I know several people who have had trans. problems but many more who haven't. So it is a guess. I was told by a dealer that the transmission problem was supposedly corrected by 1995. As you can guess, we really like Chrysler and are looking into a new one right now and with the incentives that are available I am not waiting.
Also, when we purchased our base model T & C. It was actually about the same price as the loaded Voyager because the options on the T & C are standard compared to being extra on the Voyager. We were told the T & C has a better resale value!

ghreynolds

THORE

Relialibilty is always a concern. I researched Honda, Toyota,and Chrysler before buying a Chrysler I & I Limited two weeks ago. I replaced a 1994 Chrysler I&I with 156000 miles. The only maintence beyond regular routine outlined in the owners manual was replacement of water pump at 120000 miles an two rear wheel bearings at126000. There are large discounts available now as much as $7000 below MSRP. So its a good time to buy.
The 2001 Limited appears to offer all the features available.

wolveseatsheep

If this has been discussed ad nauseam - I apologize in advance (I imagine it has).

Does DC have plans to add the 3rd row fold down seat??? I can't imagine why they wouldn't do it. It is a huge selling point for me. Our family (2 kids and very large dog) go to the grandparents place at the beach almost every weekend in the summer. It would be far easier to pack a mini van with no back seat (or one folded down!). But once we get there, we need a 3rd seat to take the whole clan (kids, grandparents) out to eat and stuff. That might sound silly but honestly it's those trips that are probably the main reason we want a mini van, although there are others.

If DC offered the fold-down 3rd seat, my choice would be a no-brainer. As it is, I still must seriously consider the Odyssey although I hate the lack of features Honda offers.

Anybody know if there's any chance of a fold-down seat in 02 or later???

drew_

No, Chrysler will not be adding this feature anytime soon. They studied it during the development phase of the '01 minivans, and found that it made packaging the AWD system very difficult, in addition to increasing road/tire noise inside the cabin (hence the reason why you hear Odyssey owners complaining of hearing the gasoline sloshing around in the tank). For these two primary reasons, they decided to stick with the current configuration.


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drew_

I have moved your message to the Honda Odyssey vs. Chrysler minivans topic. Please continue the discussion in there.

Thanks,

Drew
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johnd18

I have read multiple instances of Roof Rack noise problems. Does any know if this has been addressed by the manufacturer on new models from the factory? What should we be looking for?
Also,
I understand the NHSTA report is due out. I called the crash test department(202-366-1740) and I was told that the new 2001 Grand Caravan received a 4 star(Frontal Driver), 4 Star(Frontal Pass), 4 Star (Side Front), 5 Star (Side Rear). Can anyone validate this?