The 1996 Chrysler Town & Country is a front-wheel-drive minivan that was part of the third generation of the iconic nameplate, produced from 1991 to 2007. Key trims typically included the base, and the more luxurious LXi. Known for its wood-grain paneling and comfortable interior, the Town & Country offered a premium minivan experience that resonated with families seeking both utility and a touch of elegance. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of practicality and near-luxury appointments.
The Good
The 1996 Town & Country excels in comfort and practicality, offering a smooth ride and spacious interior ideal for families. Its distinctive design, especially with the wood trim, evoked a sense of premium comfort. For practical buyers, its value proposition as a versatile hauler remains strong.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like transmission problems, particularly with the 4-speed automatic. Electrical gremlins, including power window and lock failures, are also frequently reported. Rust, especially in areas exposed to salt, can be a significant concern for the body panels.
1996 Chrysler Town & Country: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.3L V6 (Standard on most models)
- 3.8L V6 (Optional on some trims)
- Horsepower:
- 3.3L V6: Approximately 158 hp
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 166 hp
- Fuel Economy: (EPA estimates, actual may vary)
- 3.3L V6: Around 17 MPG city / 23 MPG highway
- 3.8L V6: Around 16 MPG city / 22 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times: (Approximate, varies with engine and load)
- Typically in the 9-11 second range
- Towing Capacity: (If equipped with towing package)
- Generally around 2,000 - 3,500 lbs, depending on configuration and engine
- Trim-Level Features (Typical):
- Base/Standard: Cloth seating, power windows and locks (often optional), AM/FM stereo, tilt steering wheel, intermittent wipers, rear climate control vents.
- LXi (Luxury Trim): Premium cloth or leather seating, power sliding doors (often optional), upgraded audio system, alloy wheels, fog lights, automatic climate control, wood-grain interior accents, upgraded exterior trim, enhanced sound insulation.
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1996 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WINDSOR |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country Have?
The 1996 Chrysler Town & Country, like many vehicles of its era, has a documented set of common issues that owners often encounter. One of the most frequently cited problems revolves around the transmission, particularly the 4-speed automatic transmission. Issues such as slipping gears, delayed engagement, and outright failure can occur, often necessitating costly repairs or replacement. This is a critical area to inspect when considering a used model.
Another area of concern is the electrical system. Numerous owners report problems with power windows and door locks malfunctioning, sometimes intermittently. The power sliding door mechanism, if equipped, can also be a source of headaches, becoming slow, inoperable, or making unusual noises. The instrument cluster can also experience failures, leading to inoperative gauges or warning lights.
Regarding long-term reliability, the powertrain (engine and transmission) is often the limiting factor. While the V6 engines themselves can be robust with proper maintenance, the transmission is a known weak point. Rust is also a significant factor, especially for vehicles driven in areas that experience harsh winters with road salt. Areas like the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the rear quarter panels are particularly susceptible.
While specific recalls for the 1996 model year might be limited and aged, it's always prudent to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding safety recalls that may have been issued for this vehicle. Overall, while offering comfort and utility, potential buyers should be prepared for potential maintenance needs related to the transmission and electrical systems, and carefully assess the vehicle's condition regarding rust.
Another area of concern is the electrical system. Numerous owners report problems with power windows and door locks malfunctioning, sometimes intermittently. The power sliding door mechanism, if equipped, can also be a source of headaches, becoming slow, inoperable, or making unusual noises. The instrument cluster can also experience failures, leading to inoperative gauges or warning lights.
Regarding long-term reliability, the powertrain (engine and transmission) is often the limiting factor. While the V6 engines themselves can be robust with proper maintenance, the transmission is a known weak point. Rust is also a significant factor, especially for vehicles driven in areas that experience harsh winters with road salt. Areas like the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the rear quarter panels are particularly susceptible.
While specific recalls for the 1996 model year might be limited and aged, it's always prudent to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding safety recalls that may have been issued for this vehicle. Overall, while offering comfort and utility, potential buyers should be prepared for potential maintenance needs related to the transmission and electrical systems, and carefully assess the vehicle's condition regarding rust.
How long will the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country last?
With diligent maintenance, the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country can reasonably achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and in some well-cared-for instances, even exceed 250,000 miles. The long-term durability is significantly impacted by how well the transmission has been maintained, as this is a common failure point. Regular fluid changes and addressing any early signs of trouble can extend its life considerably. The V6 engines, particularly the 3.8L, are generally considered more durable and capable of lasting a long time. However, the susceptibility to rust over time means that structural integrity can become a weakness in certain climates, even if the mechanical components are still sound. Owners who prioritize regular fluid checks, address minor issues promptly, and protect against rust can enjoy many years of service from this minivan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1996 Chrysler Town & Country focused more on comfort and convenience than cutting-edge technology, reflecting the era. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Optional upgrades could introduce a CD player, significantly enhancing the audio experience for the time. Higher trims might have offered a premium speaker system, delivering a richer sound.
In terms of driver-assistance features, these were minimal by modern standards. Cruise control was a common convenience feature, especially on higher trims, aiding in relaxed highway driving. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often standard or available, providing a crucial safety enhancement for stopping.
Safety features for the 1996 Town & Country included standard front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seatbelts for all occupants were, of course, standard. Child seat anchors were also incorporated. Power windows and locks, while often considered convenience features, also contribute to ease of use and accessibility for safety.
Crash-test ratings for this specific model year are not readily available through modern, standardized tests like those conducted by the IIHS or NHTSA today. However, minivans of this era generally offered improved safety over previous generations, with a focus on occupant protection in frontal and side impacts. The robust construction of the minivan body style provided a good measure of structural integrity. Optional features that enhanced comfort and convenience, such as automatic climate control and power-sliding doors, indirectly contributed to a more pleasant and potentially safer driving experience by reducing driver distraction and effort. Overall, the tech and safety were functional for its time, prioritizing basic needs over advanced electronics.
In terms of driver-assistance features, these were minimal by modern standards. Cruise control was a common convenience feature, especially on higher trims, aiding in relaxed highway driving. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often standard or available, providing a crucial safety enhancement for stopping.
Safety features for the 1996 Town & Country included standard front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seatbelts for all occupants were, of course, standard. Child seat anchors were also incorporated. Power windows and locks, while often considered convenience features, also contribute to ease of use and accessibility for safety.
Crash-test ratings for this specific model year are not readily available through modern, standardized tests like those conducted by the IIHS or NHTSA today. However, minivans of this era generally offered improved safety over previous generations, with a focus on occupant protection in frontal and side impacts. The robust construction of the minivan body style provided a good measure of structural integrity. Optional features that enhanced comfort and convenience, such as automatic climate control and power-sliding doors, indirectly contributed to a more pleasant and potentially safer driving experience by reducing driver distraction and effort. Overall, the tech and safety were functional for its time, prioritizing basic needs over advanced electronics.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country had a price range that typically started in the low $20,000s for base models and could climb into the high $20,000s or even approach $30,000 for fully equipped LXi trims. As with most vehicles, it experienced significant depreciation in its initial years.
Currently, the used market value for a 1996 Town & Country is quite low, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, with exceptional, low-mileage examples potentially fetching slightly more. Factors significantly affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (especially rust and transmission health), maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like leather interior or a power sliding door. Vehicles in poor condition or with known mechanical issues will be at the very bottom of this range or even considered parts vehicles.
Currently, the used market value for a 1996 Town & Country is quite low, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, with exceptional, low-mileage examples potentially fetching slightly more. Factors significantly affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (especially rust and transmission health), maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like leather interior or a power sliding door. Vehicles in poor condition or with known mechanical issues will be at the very bottom of this range or even considered parts vehicles.
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs for a 1996 Chrysler Town & Country can be relatively low, especially in terms of insurance and fuel, making it economical for many. Insurance premiums are typically modest for a vehicle of this age. Fuel economy is average for its class, so regular fill-ups contribute to ongoing costs. Maintenance costs can be reasonable for routine services. However, the potential for significant repair bills, particularly related to the transmission and electrical systems, can make it costly to own if these issues arise. This vehicle is economical for basic operation but can become costly if major mechanical repairs are needed.
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2002-11-07
Recall no.
02v293000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Mini Vans, THE Clockspring Assembly MAY Have Been Wound Incorrectly During THE Vehicle Assembly Process.
Consequence
This Condition Will Manifest Itself Through Illumination OF THE AIR BAG Warning Lamp, and Could Eventually Result IN A Driver's AIR BAG Open Circuit, IF THE Part IS NOT Replaced IN A Reasonable Amount OF Time.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Clockspring Assembly ON All Vehicles With 70,000 Miles or Less. AN Extended Lifetime Warranty Will Also BE Placed ON This Component FOR All Affected Vehicles, Regardless OF Mileage. Daimlerchrysler Will Also Reimburse Owners WHO Have Paid TO Have THE Clockspring Replaced ON Their Vehicles. Owner Notification Began November 18, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
Recall date
2000-09-13
Recall no.
00v268000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Mini Vans Built With 3.3l and 3.8l Engines Have Fuel Rails With Nitrole Rubber O-Ring Seals That CAN Degrade Over Time. Fuel Leakage From THE Underhood Fuel Injection Fuel Rail Could Result, Increasing THE Likelihood OF A Vehicle Fire.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Seal ON THE Vehicle Fuel Rails TO Prevent External Leakage OF Fuel From THE Fuel Rail Crossover Tube, Should THE Existing O-Rings Continue TO Degrade. Owner Notification Began ON January 25, 2002. DUE TO THE Large Quantity OF Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign, THE Owner Notification Will BE Phased Over THE Next Several Months. However, IF A Vehicle IS Leaking Fuel From THE O-Rings, THE Vehicle Should BE Taken Into A Dealer TO Have This Repaired AS Soon AS Possible. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
1999-08-09
Recall no.
99v216000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Minivans. Fuel CAN Leak From THE Fuel Tank AT THE Interface OF THE Fuel Pump Module Attachment.
Consequence
IF A Fuel Leak Occurs IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fire Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module Attaching NUT With A NUT That Includes Tighter Design Tolerances. THE Sealing O-Ring Will Also BE Replaced.
Notes
Owner Notification Began January 9, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-992-1997. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:integrated Child Seat
Recall date
1996-10-24
Recall no.
97i001000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Integral Child Seats. This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With Federal Regulation 573. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. ON THE Integral Child Seat, THE Shoulder Belts Restraining THE Child Retract and Lock IN Place After THE Belt Buckle IS Connected TO THE Latch Plate. THE Latch Plate Movement Locks THE Belts TO Make Sure THE Child IS Restrained IN THE Case OF A Vehicle Crash.
Consequence
THE Latch Plate Located IN THE Seat Cushion Area Must BE Free TO Move Back Against ITS Stop After THE Buckle IS Removed TO Allow THE Shoulder Belts TO BE Pulled Out. Always BE Sure THE Area Around THE Latch Plate IS Free OF Food or Other Items That Might Prevent THE Latch Plate From Moving Back.
Remedy
Owners ARE Being Provided With A Video Tape and 2 Harness Clips. THE Video Tape Instructs Owners ON THE Proper USE and Maintenance OF THE Child Seats.
Notes
Note:chrysler HAS Decided TO Conduct A Safety Improvement Campaign TO Make THE Vehicle Owner Aware OF HOW THE Integral Child Seat Latching System Works.owners CAN Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Child Seat
Recall date
1998-08-06
Recall no.
98v185000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Mini Vans Equipped With Integrated Child Seats. THE Shoulder Harness Restraint ON THE Integrated Child Seat CAN Become Difficult TO Extract When THE Safety Belt Latch Plate Becomes Contaminated.
Consequence
This CAN Cause Difficulty IN Releasing A Child From THE Restraint.
Remedy
Dealers Will Clean THE Latch Mechanism. AN Extender Will BE Added TO THE Emergency Release Anchor FOR THE Child Seat Safety Belts SO That THE Release Clips ARE More Visible and Accessible TO THE Operator IN THE Event That THE Retractor Mechanism CAN NOT BE Unlocked. IN Addition, AN Instructional Owner's Manual Supplement Card Will BE Provided.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin November 30, 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:integrated Child Seat
Recall date
1996-07-18
Recall no.
96v136000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Bolts Which Secure THE Integrated Child Seat Modules TO THE Seat Frame CAN Break.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Accident, THE Child Seat MAY NOT Provide Adequate Protection TO THE Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Integrated Child Seat Module Bolts.
Notes
System: Equipment; Child Seat; Integral Part OF Seat. Vehicle Description: Mini-Vans Equipped With Child Seat Modules. Owner Notification: Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During August 1996. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Seat Belts:integrated Child Seat
Recall date
1995-09-25
Recall no.
95i004000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Consequence
Remedy
Chrysler Dealers Will Replace Both Child Seat Assemblies With Revised Seats Containing Retractor Improvements. THE Revised Seats Will Also Increase Child Comfort BY Incorporating Protective Seat Belt Wraps TO Prevent Belt Chafe.
Notes
System: Equipment; Child Seat; Integral Part OF Seat.vehicle Description: Passenger Mini-Vans Equipped With Integrated Child Seats.description OF Problem: This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With Federalregulation 573. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. THE Campaign Will Replace Both Child Seat Assemblies With Revised Seats Containing Retractor Improvements. Consequence OF Problem: IN AN Emergency Situation, IT Would BE Difficult TO Remove A Child From THE Seat. Note: This IS NOT A Safety Recall. There HAS Been NO Determination That A Safety Defect Exists With THE Child Seats. Owners CAN Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date
1996-01-16
Recall no.
96v002000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
A Static Electric Charge CAN Build UP ON THE Ungrounded Metal Section OF THE Fuel Filler Tube.
Consequence
This Condition Could Cause A Spark TO Occur When Fueling THE Vehicle and Possibly Ignite THE Fuel Vapors.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Ground Strap FOR THE Fuel Filler Tube.
Notes
System: Fuel; Fuel Tank Assembly; Pipe; Filler; Neck.vehicle Description: Passenger Mini-Vans. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time, Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
1995-12-08
Recall no.
95v236000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Fuel Tank Rollover Valve CAN Allow Fuel TO Pass Into THE Vapor Canister Resulting IN THE Potential FOR Fuel Leakage.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage Increases THE Potential FOR A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank Filler Tube With A Filler Tube That HAS AN Additional Rollover Valve. THE Associated Rollover Valve Vapor Hoses Will BE Rerouted.
Notes
System: Fuel; Vehicle Crash; CUT OFF System.vehicle Description: Passenger Mini-Vans.note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Equipment
Recall date
2003-09-26
Recall no.
03e045000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters Manufactured Between September 17, 2002, and January 20, 2003, Sold Under THE Brand Names Listed Above. THE Filter MAY Experience Malfunction OF THE Quick Connector Either Blocking Fuel Flow TO THE Engine or Causing A Fuel Leak. This Does NOT Involve ANY Products Manufactured BY THE Daimlerchrysler Corp. NOR ANY Dailmerchrysler Dealers.
Consequence
IF This Condition Occurred While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion, THE Engine Could Stall. Also, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, THE Fuel Leak Could Result IN A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 1995-2000 Short Wheelbase Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 18232 and Date Code 0237, 0249, or 0252. Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 1995-2000 Long Wheelbase Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 18230 and Date Code 0237, 0249, 0251, or 0304. Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 2001-2004 Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 28871 and Date Code 0249. These Part Numbers and Date Codes Appear ON THE Gold-tone Filter. Distributors and Retailers Will BE Notified TO Isolate and Return Affected Inventory. Owners WHO Have HAD THE Fuel Filter Serviced ON ONE OF THE Applicable Vehicles After September 17, 2002 Should Return Their Vehicle TO THE Service Facility TO BE Inspected TO SEE IF THE Fuel Filter That WAS Installed IS ONE That IS Involved IN THE Recall. IF SO, THE Owners Should Have THE Filter Replaced. TO Receive A Full Refund Plus THE Cost OF Postage, Owners Should CUT THE Connectors From THE Hoses, Rinse THE Connectors and Return Them Together With Proof OF THE Amount Paid FOR THE Replacement Part and Labor, TO Intercontinental AT Intercontinental Auto Parts, Inc., P.o. BOX 861, Mahwah, NJ 07430, Attn: Fuel Filter Recall. Intercontinental Will Mail A Full Refund TO THE Owner.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, and Dodge Caravan Minivansor ANY Other Products Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler Corporation.consumers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e022000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Sold AS Replacement Brake Cylinders FOR Certain Ford, Daimlerchrysler, and Jeep Passenger Vehicles. These Brake Cylinders Were Sold Under THE Brand Names OF Napa, Raybestos, Aimco, AC Delco, Carquest, Bendix, and Wagner. Only Products That Were Manufactured From July 27, 2005 Through January 17, 2006 (Date Codes 0529 Through 0602) ARE Subject TO This Recall. When Subject TO Very Cold Temperatures, AN Internal Seal IN THE Master Cylinder Could Lose Flexibility and MAY Cause Brake Fluid TO Leak.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Lead TO A Decrease IN Brake Line Pressure and AN Increase IN Stopping Distance, Which CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Affinia (Brake Parts, Inc.) Will Replace THE Subject Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 20, 2006. Owners CAN Contact Affina Group Customer Service AT 1-800-323-0354.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Napa, Raybestos, AC Delco, Aimco, Carquest, and Bendix Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2003-10-24
Recall no.
03e053000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters, Models WIX Filter Part Numbers 33576, 33577, 33734; Napa Filter Part Numbers 3576, 3577, 3734; and Carquest Filter Part Numbers 86576, 86577, 86734 Used ON 1996-2000 Daimlerchrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager Vehicles, CAN Cause THE Fuel Lines TO Leak.
Consequence
A Possible Fire CAN Occur IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source.
Remedy
WIX Will Notify ITS Customers and Replace THE Fuel Filters Free OF Charge. Note: This Does NOT Involve ANY Products Manufactured BY THE Daimlerchrysler Corp. NOR ANY Dailmerchrysler Dealers. Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During November 2003. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact WIX AT 704-864-6711.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, and Dodge Caravan Minivansor ANY Other Products Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler Corporation.customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
1996 Chrysler Town & Country Insurance
Insurance for a 1996 Chrysler Town & Country is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country Compare to Other Van?
The 1996 Chrysler Town & Country competed primarily against other minivans of the era, such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar. In terms of performance, its V6 engines offered adequate power for hauling families and cargo, though it wasn't known for sporty driving dynamics. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, particularly later iterations, began to establish a reputation for better engine refinement and responsiveness, but the Town & Country often offered more raw power in its V6 options.
Features were a strong suit for the Town & Country, especially in its higher trims. It often boasted a more luxurious interior with available leather, wood accents, and premium sound systems, giving it a distinct advantage over more utilitarian rivals and appealing to those seeking near-luxury comfort. Competitors like the Ford Windstar offered a similar range of features, while the Japanese offerings were sometimes more focused on practicality.
Reliability is where the Town & Country faced its biggest challenges compared to its rivals. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna consistently ranked higher in long-term reliability surveys, particularly regarding powertrain durability. The Town & Country’s known transmission issues and electrical gremlins made it less dependable than its Japanese counterparts. The Ford Windstar also had its share of reliability concerns during this period.
Price-wise, the Town & Country often offered a competitive package, especially considering its upscale features. When new, it could be priced similarly to or slightly above its rivals, but its current used market value is significantly lower than comparable older models from Honda or Toyota, making it a cheaper entry point for a minivan.
Alternatives: If reliability is paramount, a 1996 Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey would be superior choices. If a more basic, less feature-rich, but potentially more robust option is desired, a well-maintained domestic option like the Ford Windstar could be considered, though it too has its issues. For those prioritizing luxury and willing to accept potential maintenance, the Town & Country remains a unique option.
Features were a strong suit for the Town & Country, especially in its higher trims. It often boasted a more luxurious interior with available leather, wood accents, and premium sound systems, giving it a distinct advantage over more utilitarian rivals and appealing to those seeking near-luxury comfort. Competitors like the Ford Windstar offered a similar range of features, while the Japanese offerings were sometimes more focused on practicality.
Reliability is where the Town & Country faced its biggest challenges compared to its rivals. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna consistently ranked higher in long-term reliability surveys, particularly regarding powertrain durability. The Town & Country’s known transmission issues and electrical gremlins made it less dependable than its Japanese counterparts. The Ford Windstar also had its share of reliability concerns during this period.
Price-wise, the Town & Country often offered a competitive package, especially considering its upscale features. When new, it could be priced similarly to or slightly above its rivals, but its current used market value is significantly lower than comparable older models from Honda or Toyota, making it a cheaper entry point for a minivan.
Alternatives: If reliability is paramount, a 1996 Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey would be superior choices. If a more basic, less feature-rich, but potentially more robust option is desired, a well-maintained domestic option like the Ford Windstar could be considered, though it too has its issues. For those prioritizing luxury and willing to accept potential maintenance, the Town & Country remains a unique option.
Final Verdict: Is the 1996 Chrysler Town & Country a Good Van?
The 1996 Chrysler Town & Country is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize comfort, space, and a touch of luxury in a minivan, and who are willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs. It is a good option for families needing a spacious hauler for short trips or for those seeking a second vehicle for less frequent use.
It is worth buying, but only under specific conditions. A used model in excellent condition, with a documented maintenance history, particularly concerning the transmission, is crucial. Prioritize lower mileage examples and carefully inspect for rust. The LXi trim offers the most desirable features for a more premium experience. Buying new is not an option, and its value lies entirely in its used market affordability. For those prioritizing absolute reliability, other minivans might be a better choice, but for a comfortable and affordable people-mover with a touch of class, it can still be a viable purchase if thoroughly vetted.
It is worth buying, but only under specific conditions. A used model in excellent condition, with a documented maintenance history, particularly concerning the transmission, is crucial. Prioritize lower mileage examples and carefully inspect for rust. The LXi trim offers the most desirable features for a more premium experience. Buying new is not an option, and its value lies entirely in its used market affordability. For those prioritizing absolute reliability, other minivans might be a better choice, but for a comfortable and affordable people-mover with a touch of class, it can still be a viable purchase if thoroughly vetted.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.