The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country is a quintessential American minivan, part of the fourth generation (RS platform) produced from 2001-2007. Available in trims like LX, Touring, and Limited, it became immensely popular for its groundbreaking Stow & Go seating system. This innovation allowed second and third-row seats to fold completely into the floor, creating a vast, flat cargo space, making it a highly versatile and family-friendly vehicle that truly stood out. New prices ranged from approximately $21,000 to $37,000.
The Good
The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country's primary advantage is its unparalleled versatility, thanks to the revolutionary Stow & Go seating system, appealing to practical buyers needing flexible cargo space. It offers a comfortable, quiet ride and a spacious interior, making long family trips enjoyable for emotional buyers. With adequate V6 power and reasonable efficiency for its class, it provides excellent value as a practical, spacious, and convenient family vehicle.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country include potential transmission problems, particularly with the 4-speed automatic, and susceptibility to rust. Electrical issues, such as those affecting power sliding doors, gauges, and HVAC systems, are also common. Owners should also watch out for worn suspension components like struts and bushings, which can impact ride quality.
2006 Chrysler Town & Country: Quick Overview
The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country offered a range of specifications designed for family utility:
- Engine Options: The primary engines available were a 3.3-liter V6 and a more robust 3.8-liter V6.
- Horsepower: The 3.3-liter V6 typically produced around 180 horsepower, while the 3.8-liter V6 offered a more energetic 215 horsepower, providing adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising.
- Fuel Economy: Expect approximately 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for models equipped with the 3.3-liter V6. The 3.8-liter V6 saw slightly lower figures, around 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, varying with driving conditions and vehicle load.
- 0-60 MPH Times: As a family minivan, acceleration wasn't its strong suit. Most models achieved 0-60 MPH in the 10 to 11-second range.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped with the towing package, the 2006 Town & Country could tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it capable of light-duty towing for small trailers or boats.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Generally featured air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM CD stereo, and often manual sliding doors.
- Touring: Significantly upgraded, typically including the revolutionary Stow & Go seating system, power heated mirrors, a power driver's seat, improved audio, and often options for power sliding doors and a power liftgate.
- Limited: The pinnacle of luxury for the lineup, the Limited trim added premium leather seating, automatic tri-zone climate control, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a premium Infinity sound system, and often came with optional features like a navigation system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, alongside distinctive alloy wheels. Stow 'n Go seating was a standard highlight across most higher trims.
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | FUZHOU |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4239 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5700 pounds |
| Overall Height | 68.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 200.50 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.60 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 119.30 inches |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,520 |
| Invoice Price | $23,543 |
| Delivery Charges | $730 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country Have?
The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country, while practical, is known for several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. Foremost among these is the 4-speed automatic transmission (often the 41TE), which is notorious for developing issues such as slipping, harsh shifts, or complete failure, leading to expensive repairs or replacement. This is a significant long-term weakness that often surfaces as the vehicle ages.
Electrical problems are also prevalent. Owners frequently report issues with the power sliding doors, including motor failures, sensor malfunctions, or wiring harness problems, which can be frustrating and costly to fix. Instrument cluster anomalies, such as inaccurate gauges or warning lights, are also common. HVAC system issues, including failing blower motors, resistors, or blend door actuators, and corroding rear A/C lines, can lead to uncomfortable cabin conditions.
Suspension and steering components, such as control arm bushings, strut mounts, and tie rod ends, are prone to wear, manifesting as clunking noises or diminished handling. Rust is another major concern, especially in regions exposed to road salt. It can affect body panels, the subframe, and critical brake lines, posing safety risks and impacting the vehicle's longevity. Engine-wise, valve cover gasket leaks are not uncommon, and EGR valve issues can occur.
Several recalls were issued for the 2006 model year, highlighting specific vulnerabilities. These include:
Electrical problems are also prevalent. Owners frequently report issues with the power sliding doors, including motor failures, sensor malfunctions, or wiring harness problems, which can be frustrating and costly to fix. Instrument cluster anomalies, such as inaccurate gauges or warning lights, are also common. HVAC system issues, including failing blower motors, resistors, or blend door actuators, and corroding rear A/C lines, can lead to uncomfortable cabin conditions.
Suspension and steering components, such as control arm bushings, strut mounts, and tie rod ends, are prone to wear, manifesting as clunking noises or diminished handling. Rust is another major concern, especially in regions exposed to road salt. It can affect body panels, the subframe, and critical brake lines, posing safety risks and impacting the vehicle's longevity. Engine-wise, valve cover gasket leaks are not uncommon, and EGR valve issues can occur.
Several recalls were issued for the 2006 model year, highlighting specific vulnerabilities. These include:
- NHTSA Campaign 07V507000: Addressing potential rear power sliding door cable separation, which could cause the door to detach.
- NHTSA Campaign 07V275000: Pertaining to side airbag inflator rupture, a serious safety concern.
- NHTSA Campaign 05V245000: Related to the rear wheel speed sensor wire harness, potentially affecting ABS performance.
- NHTSA Campaign 06V327000: Concerning the second-row seatback latch, which might not properly engage.
How long will the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country last?
Based on owner data and maintenance habits, a 2006 Chrysler Town & Country can typically achieve an average mileage of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, equating to roughly 12-16 years of service if consistently well-maintained. However, reaching these milestones often involves significant repair costs along the way.
In terms of long-term durability, the vehicle's 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines are generally robust if routine oil changes and cooling system maintenance are performed. The interior, despite its age, tends to hold up reasonably well. The major weakness over time is the automatic transmission; many owners report needing rebuilds or replacements between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the power sliding doors and HVAC systems, become more frequent with age. Additionally, suspension components like struts and control arm bushings will require replacement for continued comfortable driving, and rust can become a significant structural and safety concern in older, high-mileage examples, especially in corrosive climates.
In terms of long-term durability, the vehicle's 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines are generally robust if routine oil changes and cooling system maintenance are performed. The interior, despite its age, tends to hold up reasonably well. The major weakness over time is the automatic transmission; many owners report needing rebuilds or replacements between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the power sliding doors and HVAC systems, become more frequent with age. Additionally, suspension components like struts and control arm bushings will require replacement for continued comfortable driving, and rust can become a significant structural and safety concern in older, high-mileage examples, especially in corrosive climates.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country, while lacking modern advanced driver-assistance systems, offered a respectable array of built-in tech, entertainment, and safety features for its era, particularly on higher trims.
Standard entertainment included an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Optional upgrades significantly enhanced the experience, featuring a premium Infinity audio system, a 6-disc CD changer, and for long trips, a sought-after factory-installed rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a flip-down screen. A navigation system was also available on top trims. Other convenience technologies included remote keyless entry, power windows, power door locks, power heated side mirrors, and cruise control. The Limited trim often added creature comforts like tri-zone automatic climate control and power-adjustable pedals, enhancing driver comfort.
Driver-assistance features were rudimentary by today's standards, primarily limited to a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) on most models, and optional traction control for improved stability in adverse conditions. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was a rare option, not widely adopted as standard across the lineup at this time.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags and a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for securing child seats. Optional safety enhancements included front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags, offering additional protection in side-impact collisions.
Crash-test ratings for the 2006 Town & Country were generally commendable for its class:
Standard entertainment included an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Optional upgrades significantly enhanced the experience, featuring a premium Infinity audio system, a 6-disc CD changer, and for long trips, a sought-after factory-installed rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a flip-down screen. A navigation system was also available on top trims. Other convenience technologies included remote keyless entry, power windows, power door locks, power heated side mirrors, and cruise control. The Limited trim often added creature comforts like tri-zone automatic climate control and power-adjustable pedals, enhancing driver comfort.
Driver-assistance features were rudimentary by today's standards, primarily limited to a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) on most models, and optional traction control for improved stability in adverse conditions. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was a rare option, not widely adopted as standard across the lineup at this time.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags and a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for securing child seats. Optional safety enhancements included front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags, offering additional protection in side-impact collisions.
Crash-test ratings for the 2006 Town & Country were generally commendable for its class:
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
- Frontal Crash Test (Driver): 5 Stars
- Frontal Crash Test (Passenger): 5 Stars
- Side Crash Test (Front Seat): 5 Stars
- Side Crash Test (Rear Seat): 5 Stars
- Rollover Resistance: 4 Stars
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
- Moderate Overlap Front Test: "Good" rating.
- Side Impact Test (with optional side airbags): "Good" rating. Without side airbags, the rating dropped.
- Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraints: "Poor" rating.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
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.
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Prices and Market Value
When new in 2006, the Chrysler Town & Country had a starting MSRP for the LX trim around $21,000 to $25,000, while the mid-range Touring trim was typically priced from $26,000 to $30,000. The top-tier Limited model could reach $32,000 to $37,000, fully loaded.
Today, its depreciation curve is essentially complete, meaning it holds minimal residual value compared to its original price. Current used market prices for a 2006 Town & Country vary significantly, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 for models in fair condition with high mileage, up to $3,000 to $5,000 for average to good condition examples. Exceptionally well-preserved, low-mileage units might fetch $5,000 to $7,000, though these are rare finds.
Factors heavily affecting its current resale value include the vehicle's overall mechanical condition, particularly the state of its transmission, and the presence of significant rust. Documented maintenance history, lower mileage, and desirable features like Stow & Go seating or a functioning DVD entertainment system can also command slightly higher prices, reflecting its enduring utility for budget-conscious families.
Today, its depreciation curve is essentially complete, meaning it holds minimal residual value compared to its original price. Current used market prices for a 2006 Town & Country vary significantly, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 for models in fair condition with high mileage, up to $3,000 to $5,000 for average to good condition examples. Exceptionally well-preserved, low-mileage units might fetch $5,000 to $7,000, though these are rare finds.
Factors heavily affecting its current resale value include the vehicle's overall mechanical condition, particularly the state of its transmission, and the presence of significant rust. Documented maintenance history, lower mileage, and desirable features like Stow & Go seating or a functioning DVD entertainment system can also command slightly higher prices, reflecting its enduring utility for budget-conscious families.
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership costs for a 2006 Chrysler Town & Country present a mixed picture. Insurance premiums are generally affordable, reflecting its age and family-friendly nature. Fuel costs are moderate, with its V6 engines achieving 17-25 MPG on regular unleaded, typical for a minivan of its vintage. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tires, and brakes, is relatively inexpensive due to readily available parts.
However, repair costs can be substantial. The notoriously problematic automatic transmission often requires significant investment, potentially a rebuild or replacement, which is the primary factor driving up long-term expenses. Electrical gremlins and rust mitigation can also add up. Therefore, while the initial purchase price is very low, the 2006 Town & Country can quickly become costly to own if major repairs, particularly transmission-related, become necessary. It's economical only if you acquire one with a robust maintenance history and a healthy transmission.
However, repair costs can be substantial. The notoriously problematic automatic transmission often requires significant investment, potentially a rebuild or replacement, which is the primary factor driving up long-term expenses. Electrical gremlins and rust mitigation can also add up. Therefore, while the initial purchase price is very low, the 2006 Town & Country can quickly become costly to own if major repairs, particularly transmission-related, become necessary. It's economical only if you acquire one with a robust maintenance history and a healthy transmission.
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
20.00 gallons
City Mileage
19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
26 miles/gallon
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2006 Chrysler Town & Country Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 Chrysler Town & Country is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country Compare to Other Minivan?
When stacking the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country against its key rivals, such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and its sibling, the Dodge Grand Caravan, a distinct picture emerges in terms of performance, features, reliability, and price.
In terms of Performance, the Town & Country's 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines offer adequate power for daily driving, but it falls short of the generally more refined and sometimes more powerful V6 offerings found in the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which also tend to provide a smoother ride and more composed handling dynamics.
Regarding Features, the Town & Country truly shines with its groundbreaking Stow & Go seating system, an unparalleled feature at the time that allowed both second and third-row seats to fold completely into the floor, creating a flat cargo area. While rivals like the Odyssey and Sienna offered versatile seating, none matched the integrated ease of Stow & Go. The Town & Country also provided competitive entertainment and comfort options for its era, including available DVD systems and premium audio.
Reliability is where the Town & Country faces its most significant challenge. Its notorious 4-speed automatic transmission often proves to be a long-term liability, along with frequent electrical gremlins and rust susceptibility. In contrast, the Toyota Sienna is widely regarded as a benchmark for minivan reliability, often going well beyond 200,000 miles with fewer major issues. The Honda Odyssey, while having some transmission concerns in earlier generations, generally offered stronger reliability by 2006 compared to the Chrysler. Ford's contemporary Freestar typically fared no better than the Chrysler in terms of reliability.
Considering Price, the Town & Country was generally more affordable new than its Japanese counterparts and has experienced steeper depreciation. This makes it significantly cheaper on the used market today. Used Siennas and Odysseys from the same year still command higher prices due to their superior reliability and perceived longevity.
Recommended Alternatives:
For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower long-term repair costs, the 2006 Toyota Sienna is an unequivocally better alternative, often boasting a smooth ride and optional all-wheel drive. The 2006 Honda Odyssey is also a strong contender, offering a more engaging driving experience and good feature set with generally better reliability than the Chrysler. If budget is the absolute primary concern and Stow & Go is essential, the 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan offers virtually the same package, sometimes at an even lower price point.
In terms of Performance, the Town & Country's 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines offer adequate power for daily driving, but it falls short of the generally more refined and sometimes more powerful V6 offerings found in the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which also tend to provide a smoother ride and more composed handling dynamics.
Regarding Features, the Town & Country truly shines with its groundbreaking Stow & Go seating system, an unparalleled feature at the time that allowed both second and third-row seats to fold completely into the floor, creating a flat cargo area. While rivals like the Odyssey and Sienna offered versatile seating, none matched the integrated ease of Stow & Go. The Town & Country also provided competitive entertainment and comfort options for its era, including available DVD systems and premium audio.
Reliability is where the Town & Country faces its most significant challenge. Its notorious 4-speed automatic transmission often proves to be a long-term liability, along with frequent electrical gremlins and rust susceptibility. In contrast, the Toyota Sienna is widely regarded as a benchmark for minivan reliability, often going well beyond 200,000 miles with fewer major issues. The Honda Odyssey, while having some transmission concerns in earlier generations, generally offered stronger reliability by 2006 compared to the Chrysler. Ford's contemporary Freestar typically fared no better than the Chrysler in terms of reliability.
Considering Price, the Town & Country was generally more affordable new than its Japanese counterparts and has experienced steeper depreciation. This makes it significantly cheaper on the used market today. Used Siennas and Odysseys from the same year still command higher prices due to their superior reliability and perceived longevity.
Recommended Alternatives:
For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower long-term repair costs, the 2006 Toyota Sienna is an unequivocally better alternative, often boasting a smooth ride and optional all-wheel drive. The 2006 Honda Odyssey is also a strong contender, offering a more engaging driving experience and good feature set with generally better reliability than the Chrysler. If budget is the absolute primary concern and Stow & Go is essential, the 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan offers virtually the same package, sometimes at an even lower price point.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country a Good Minivan?
The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country is ideally suited for budget-conscious families or individuals requiring immense cargo versatility, thanks to its revolutionary Stow & Go seating. It's a practical choice for those who frequently transport large items or need flexible passenger configurations without breaking the bank on the initial purchase.
As a used vehicle, it can be worth buying, but only under very specific conditions. It is crucial to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, with particular emphasis on the transmission's health, electrical system functionality (especially the power sliding doors and HVAC), and any signs of significant rust. Opting for a Touring or Limited trim will provide the most features and the invaluable Stow & Go, but also potentially more electrical complexities. Buyers should enter ownership with realistic expectations, understanding that this vehicle often demands ongoing maintenance and potential costly repairs, especially for the transmission. It is not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle but can serve as an economical, highly functional hauler for those prepared for its quirks or for shorter-term needs.
As a used vehicle, it can be worth buying, but only under very specific conditions. It is crucial to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, with particular emphasis on the transmission's health, electrical system functionality (especially the power sliding doors and HVAC), and any signs of significant rust. Opting for a Touring or Limited trim will provide the most features and the invaluable Stow & Go, but also potentially more electrical complexities. Buyers should enter ownership with realistic expectations, understanding that this vehicle often demands ongoing maintenance and potential costly repairs, especially for the transmission. It is not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle but can serve as an economical, highly functional hauler for those prepared for its quirks or for shorter-term needs.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.