The 1999 Chrysler Town & Country is a mid-size minivan, part of the NS generation that ran from 1996 to 2000.
Known for its upscale amenities and comfortable ride, it offered a more luxurious experience than many competitors.
Key trims typically included the base model and the more premium LXi.
While new pricing varied, its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and a refined feel for a minivan.
Known for its upscale amenities and comfortable ride, it offered a more luxurious experience than many competitors.
Key trims typically included the base model and the more premium LXi.
While new pricing varied, its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and a refined feel for a minivan.
The Good
The 1999 Town & Country excels in comfort and a smooth ride, appealing to families seeking a peaceful journey.
Its spacious interior offers practicality for cargo and passengers, while the refined design offers a touch of luxury, providing good value for its segment.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of possible issues with the transmission, particularly concerning shifting and solenoid problems.
Electrical gremlins, such as faulty power window motors and sensor issues, are also noted.
Rust, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, can be a concern in certain climates.
1999 Chrysler Town & Country: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.3L V6 OHV 12-valve engine
- 3.8L V6 OHV 12-valve engine - Horsepower:
- 3.3L V6: Approximately 158 horsepower @ 4,800 rpm
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 180 horsepower @ 4,800 rpm - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 3.3L V6: Estimated 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway
- 3.8L V6: Estimated 16 MPG city / 23 MPG highway (may vary slightly based on configuration) - 0-60 Times:
- Approximately 9.5 - 10.5 seconds (depending on engine and load) - Towing Capacity:
- Typically rated for up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped with the towing package. - Trim-Level Features (General):
Base/ES (Equivalent):
- Dual sliding doors
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and locks
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player
- Split-folding rear seats
- Front-wheel drive
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
LXi (Higher Trim):
- All features of the base model plus:
- Leather seating surfaces
- Power adjustable front seats
- Upgraded audio system (often with CD player)
- Alloy wheels
- Roof rack
- Optional power sliding doors
- Optional rear entertainment system (e.g., video cassette player)
- Optional fog lights
- Enhanced interior trim and woodgrain accents
- Keyless entry system
1999 Chrysler Town & Country Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Specifications
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country Have?
The 1999 Chrysler Town & Country, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of common issues.
One of the most frequently cited problems revolves around the transmission, particularly the 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners report issues such as slipping gears, delayed shifting, and outright transmission failure, often related to worn solenoids or torque converter problems.
Another common concern is with the power sliding doors. The motors can fail, leading to doors that are difficult or impossible to open and close. The mechanisms can also become misaligned or corroded.
Electrical issues are also prevalent. This can include malfunctioning power window motors, faulty door lock actuators, and intermittent problems with the interior lights or dashboard warning lights. The heating and cooling system, specifically the blend door actuators, can also fail, leading to uneven temperature distribution.
On the exterior, rust is a significant concern, particularly on models driven in areas with harsh winters and road salt. The wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels are common areas for rust perforation.
Regarding recalls, specific to the 1999 model year, Chrysler issued recalls for issues such as potential airbag inflator malfunctions and, in some cases, problems with the fuel system. It is always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for specific recall information pertaining to a particular vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. While the powertrain can be robust if well-maintained, the prevalence of transmission and electrical issues can impact overall dependability. Many owners find that addressing these common problems can extend the life of the vehicle, but it often requires dedicated maintenance and prompt repairs.
One of the most frequently cited problems revolves around the transmission, particularly the 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners report issues such as slipping gears, delayed shifting, and outright transmission failure, often related to worn solenoids or torque converter problems.
Another common concern is with the power sliding doors. The motors can fail, leading to doors that are difficult or impossible to open and close. The mechanisms can also become misaligned or corroded.
Electrical issues are also prevalent. This can include malfunctioning power window motors, faulty door lock actuators, and intermittent problems with the interior lights or dashboard warning lights. The heating and cooling system, specifically the blend door actuators, can also fail, leading to uneven temperature distribution.
On the exterior, rust is a significant concern, particularly on models driven in areas with harsh winters and road salt. The wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels are common areas for rust perforation.
Regarding recalls, specific to the 1999 model year, Chrysler issued recalls for issues such as potential airbag inflator malfunctions and, in some cases, problems with the fuel system. It is always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for specific recall information pertaining to a particular vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. While the powertrain can be robust if well-maintained, the prevalence of transmission and electrical issues can impact overall dependability. Many owners find that addressing these common problems can extend the life of the vehicle, but it often requires dedicated maintenance and prompt repairs.
How long will the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country last?
With diligent maintenance, the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country can achieve average mileages in the range of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and some have surpassed 250,000 miles.
The long-term durability is heavily influenced by regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and prompt attention to known issues like rust and electrical gremlins.
However, weaknesses tend to emerge over time. The transmission, as previously mentioned, is a common failure point past 100,000 miles if not serviced regularly.
Electrical components, such as power window motors and door lock actuators, can also degrade with age and mileage. Rust can become a significant structural issue on older, poorly maintained examples, especially in corrosive environments, impacting long-term viability.
The long-term durability is heavily influenced by regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and prompt attention to known issues like rust and electrical gremlins.
However, weaknesses tend to emerge over time. The transmission, as previously mentioned, is a common failure point past 100,000 miles if not serviced regularly.
Electrical components, such as power window motors and door lock actuators, can also degrade with age and mileage. Rust can become a significant structural issue on older, poorly maintained examples, especially in corrosive environments, impacting long-term viability.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Chrysler Town & Country was a step up in available technology for minivans of its time, aiming for a more premium feel.
Standard Features:
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and door locks
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player
- Tilt steering wheel
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Optional and Higher Trim Features:
- Power sliding doors: A significant convenience feature for families.
- Rear Seat Entertainment System: Some models were equipped with a video cassette player and a small screen, offering entertainment for passengers on long trips.
- Upgraded Audio Systems: Options included CD players and premium speaker systems.
- Keyless Entry System: For added convenience.
- Power Adjustable Pedals: Available on some higher trims, allowing drivers of different heights to find a comfortable driving position.
- Integrated Child Seats: A clever feature offering built-in child booster seats, enhancing family utility.
Safety Features:
- Dual front airbags were standard.
- Side-impact door beams contributed to structural integrity.
- ABS was a crucial safety feature, enhancing braking control.
Crash-Test Ratings:
While specific ratings for the 1999 model year are not as detailed as modern crash tests, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided front and side-impact ratings.
For frontal impacts, the Town & Country generally received good ratings (e.g., 4 out of 5 stars for the driver and passenger). Side-impact ratings were also generally respectable for the era. However, it is important to note that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since 1999, so these ratings should be considered within the context of the time.
Standard Features:
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and door locks
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player
- Tilt steering wheel
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Optional and Higher Trim Features:
- Power sliding doors: A significant convenience feature for families.
- Rear Seat Entertainment System: Some models were equipped with a video cassette player and a small screen, offering entertainment for passengers on long trips.
- Upgraded Audio Systems: Options included CD players and premium speaker systems.
- Keyless Entry System: For added convenience.
- Power Adjustable Pedals: Available on some higher trims, allowing drivers of different heights to find a comfortable driving position.
- Integrated Child Seats: A clever feature offering built-in child booster seats, enhancing family utility.
Safety Features:
- Dual front airbags were standard.
- Side-impact door beams contributed to structural integrity.
- ABS was a crucial safety feature, enhancing braking control.
Crash-Test Ratings:
While specific ratings for the 1999 model year are not as detailed as modern crash tests, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided front and side-impact ratings.
For frontal impacts, the Town & Country generally received good ratings (e.g., 4 out of 5 stars for the driver and passenger). Side-impact ratings were also generally respectable for the era. However, it is important to note that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since 1999, so these ratings should be considered within the context of the time.
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.
1999 Chrysler Town & Country Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country had a sticker price that generally ranged from the low to mid-$20,000s for the base models, with the LXi trim and optional features pushing the price towards $30,000 or more.
Today, the used market prices for a 1999 Town & Country typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, heavily depending on mileage, condition, and maintenance history.
These vehicles have undergone significant depreciation, as is typical for minivans of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust, the condition of the transmission and powertrain, the functionality of power accessories (especially sliding doors), and overall cosmetic appearance. A well-maintained example with lower mileage and a clean history will command a higher price within this range.
Today, the used market prices for a 1999 Town & Country typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, heavily depending on mileage, condition, and maintenance history.
These vehicles have undergone significant depreciation, as is typical for minivans of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust, the condition of the transmission and powertrain, the functionality of power accessories (especially sliding doors), and overall cosmetic appearance. A well-maintained example with lower mileage and a clean history will command a higher price within this range.
1999 Chrysler Town & Country Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country can be economical if you find a well-maintained example and are prepared for potential repairs.
Insurance costs are generally modest due to its age and market value. Fuel economy is average for its class, with V6 engines consuming a moderate amount of gasoline.
Maintenance costs can be reasonable for routine services, but repair costs can escalate if major issues like transmission problems arise.
The overall ownership cost leans towards being moderately expensive over the long term, primarily due to the possibility of needing significant repairs, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
Insurance costs are generally modest due to its age and market value. Fuel economy is average for its class, with V6 engines consuming a moderate amount of gasoline.
Maintenance costs can be reasonable for routine services, but repair costs can escalate if major issues like transmission problems arise.
The overall ownership cost leans towards being moderately expensive over the long term, primarily due to the possibility of needing significant repairs, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
1999 Chrysler Town & Country Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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1999 Chrysler Town & Country Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Chrysler Town & Country is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 1999 Chrysler Town & Country competed directly with minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar.
Performance: The Town & Country offered V6 engines that provided adequate power for its class, often feeling smoother and more refined than some competitors. However, it wasn't typically known for sporty performance. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often offered more refined powertrains and slightly better handling.
Features: Chrysler often led in luxury and convenience features. The Town & Country frequently boasted amenities like leather seating, integrated child seats, and available rear-seat entertainment that were less common or unavailable on rivals. However, Honda and Toyota often excelled in practical, user-friendly interior designs.
Reliability: This is where Chrysler historically lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While the Town & Country offered comfort and features, the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna were generally considered more reliable, with fewer common mechanical and electrical issues reported, especially over the long term. The Ford Windstar had its own set of reliability concerns, particularly with transmission issues.
Price: When new, the Town & Country often positioned itself as a more premium option, sometimes commanding a higher price than the base models of rivals, but offering more standard luxury. On the used market, its price has depreciated significantly, making it an affordable option.
Alternatives:
- Toyota Sienna (1998-2003): Often considered the benchmark for reliability in this era of minivans. It offers a comfortable ride, a practical interior, and a solid reputation for longevity.
- Honda Odyssey (1999-2004): Known for its car-like driving dynamics, innovative seating configurations, and strong reliability.
- Ford Windstar (1999-2003): A more budget-friendly option that offered decent space and a comfortable ride, but generally trailed in reliability compared to Japanese rivals.
Performance: The Town & Country offered V6 engines that provided adequate power for its class, often feeling smoother and more refined than some competitors. However, it wasn't typically known for sporty performance. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often offered more refined powertrains and slightly better handling.
Features: Chrysler often led in luxury and convenience features. The Town & Country frequently boasted amenities like leather seating, integrated child seats, and available rear-seat entertainment that were less common or unavailable on rivals. However, Honda and Toyota often excelled in practical, user-friendly interior designs.
Reliability: This is where Chrysler historically lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While the Town & Country offered comfort and features, the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna were generally considered more reliable, with fewer common mechanical and electrical issues reported, especially over the long term. The Ford Windstar had its own set of reliability concerns, particularly with transmission issues.
Price: When new, the Town & Country often positioned itself as a more premium option, sometimes commanding a higher price than the base models of rivals, but offering more standard luxury. On the used market, its price has depreciated significantly, making it an affordable option.
Alternatives:
- Toyota Sienna (1998-2003): Often considered the benchmark for reliability in this era of minivans. It offers a comfortable ride, a practical interior, and a solid reputation for longevity.
- Honda Odyssey (1999-2004): Known for its car-like driving dynamics, innovative seating configurations, and strong reliability.
- Ford Windstar (1999-2003): A more budget-friendly option that offered decent space and a comfortable ride, but generally trailed in reliability compared to Japanese rivals.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Chrysler Town & Country a Good Vehicle?
The 1999 Chrysler Town & Country is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable minivan with a touch of luxury.
It's worth buying if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history, especially if the price is low.
It's best purchased used, as new examples are no longer available. Focus on models that have been meticulously cared for, preferably with lower mileage.
Avoid vehicles showing significant signs of rust or with known transmission issues unless you are prepared for potentially costly repairs. The LXi trim offers more upscale features for those prioritizing comfort. It remains a viable option for those needing a large family vehicle on a tight budget, provided they understand its potential maintenance needs.
It's worth buying if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history, especially if the price is low.
It's best purchased used, as new examples are no longer available. Focus on models that have been meticulously cared for, preferably with lower mileage.
Avoid vehicles showing significant signs of rust or with known transmission issues unless you are prepared for potentially costly repairs. The LXi trim offers more upscale features for those prioritizing comfort. It remains a viable option for those needing a large family vehicle on a tight budget, provided they understand its potential maintenance needs.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.