Chrysler Crossfire convertible problems
The Chrysler Crossfire is a rear-wheel drive, two-seat sports car, marketed by Chrysler and manufactured by Karmann of Germany for the 2004 through 2008 model years.
Developed during the period when Chrysler and Mercedes Benz had merged, known as Daimler Chrysler, the two-seater uses the Mercedes-Benz R170 platform and shares 80% of its components with the first generation SLK. The second generation SLK was built on the R171 platform with model year 2005; the R170 platform was essentially handed down to Chrysler for the Crossfire. Having initially arrived in 2001 as a concept car styled by Eric Stoddard, the Chrysler was further refined by Andrew Dyson before production began in 2003 for 2004 model year sales.
Design
The name "Crossfire" refers to two character lines that run from front to rear along the body sides, prominently crossing below the mirrors on the door panels. Conceived during the period of Daimler Chrysler, the name also refers to the collaboration of the two companies.
The Chrysler Crossfire concept car was introduced at the 2001 North American International Auto Show and the production version was unveiled at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show as a 2004 model "is as faithful a translation from concept to production as any in recent memory." The concept car was designed "to evoke a strong, passionate, emotional response. We had to retain that. We want to polarize our audience—we want people to love it or hate it."
Conceived as a two-seat halo car for the Chrysler brand, the marketing objective was also to make use of available components using a two-seat roadster chassis. The production car shares about 39% of its parts with Mercedes-Benz vehicles and Chrysler dealers were required to invest in special equipment, tools, and parts to be able to market the new luxury model. The rear-wheel-drive Crossfire coupe styling objective was for a "unique, almost sculptural" design.
The Crossfire 's styling includes a wide stance with 19-inch rear wheels and 18-inch front wheels. Automotive journalists compared the Crossfire to American Motors' 1965–1967 AMC Marlin. Noted journalist, Paul Leinert said the "distinctive boat-tail rear end reminds more than one observer of the old Rambler Marlin." For example, Rob Rothwell wrote "... when I first espied the rear lines of the Chrysler Crossfire I was instantly transported back to 1965 and my favorite car of that year, the Rambler Marlin." Motor Trend also compared the "provocative boattail theme" of the 2004 Crossfire's sheetmetal to that of the AMC Marlin fastback. The Crossfire's tail is "formed as the edges of the roof converge into a kind of teardrop shape, leaving the rear fenders to flare out over the rear wheels."
Chrysler said the Crossfire took inspiration from the 1930s art deco period and buildings such as the Chrysler Building. Motor Trend cites vehicle influences from 1930s including Bugattis and the Talbot Lago. Chrysler wanted to once again offer a performance coupe reminiscent of the luxury reputation they enjoyed during the late 1950s to mid-1960s with the Chrysler 300 letter series coupes and convertibles.
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Chrysler Crossfire convertible model years
Common Chrysler Crossfire convertible problems
The Chrysler Crossfire Convertible is a popular car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by Chrysler Crossfire Convertible owners, along with their causes and solutions.
Broken Cup Holder
Gear Stick Won't Move
- Problem: The gear stick in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible can get stuck in the park position and won't move.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: This issue is usually caused by a slightly out-of-adjustment brake/gear interlock. You can take the assembly apart and tighten it up, but this is a complicated job to do yourself. You can find guides online, or you can take it to a garage, but be prepared to pay a high price for the repair.
Check Engine Light
- Problem: The check engine light in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible can illuminate for no apparent reason.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: The most common reason for the check engine light to turn on is a faulty EGR solenoid. However, the Crossfire can often struggle with false error codes that cause the check engine light to illuminate. In this case, you will need to take the car to a Chrysler dealership for a PCM software update.
Seat Heating Not Working
- Problem: The seats in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible may stop getting warm when the seat warmer button is pressed.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: Chrysler has released a special repair kit designed specifically to resolve this issue. You can order these repair kits directly from BreakerYard for quick delivery.
Alloy Wheel Corrosion
- Problem: The alloy wheels on the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible can corrode, causing white powder marks, bubbles, or rust on the wheels.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: If the problem is not too bad, you may be able to fix it yourself by rubbing down the affected area, treating it, and then repainting the area. If it is really bad, you may want to take them to a specialist to make sure it gets done properly.
Catalytic Converter Failure
- Problem: The catalytic converter in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible can fail early, causing a rattling noise when you press your foot on the accelerator.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: You will need to fit a replacement catalytic converter to fix this problem.
Headlight Condensation
- Problem: The headlights in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible can fill up with condensation inside the lens, especially on colder mornings.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: You can drill small holes at the bottom of the lens to allow any excess water to run out, or you can purchase replacement headlight units at very low prices.
Starting Problems
- Problem: If the crankshaft position sensor fails in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible, it can cause starting problems.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: You will need to replace the crankshaft position sensor to resolve this issue.
Airbag Deployment
- Problem: The airbags in the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible may deploy for no reason, and there may be metal fragments inside the airbag that could cause serious injury.
- Models affected: This issue affects all models of the Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.
- Solution: Your only option is to head to a Chrysler dealer, as this was the cause of a big recall. Check your car's history to make sure that the work has been carried out on your vehicle, and if it hasn't, then you need to get it done as soon as possible.
These are some of the most common problems reported by Chrysler Crossfire Convertible owners. While some of these issues can be fixed by the owner, others require professional assistance. If you're experiencing any of these problems, it's essential to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.
What problems does the Chrysler Crossfire have?
Chrysler Crossfire Common Problems and Solutions
- Broken Cup Holder. Problem: ...
- Gear Stick Won't Move. Problem: ...
- Check Engine Light. Problem: ...
- Seat Heating Not Working. Problem: ...
- Alloy wheel corrosion. Problem: ...
- Catalytic converter failure. Problem: ...
- Headlight condensation. Problem: ...
- Starting problems. Problem:
Is the Crossfire engine reliable?
As Tom Barr, the National Corvette Restorers Society's team leader for fourth-generation Corvettes noted, most Cross-Fire-equipped car owners never had an issue with their fuel injection units other than the lack of power. They are hard to adjust and the weather became a factor in its performance.
Is the Chrysler Crossfire expensive to repair?
Chrysler Crossfire Repair & Maintenance Costs
The annual maintenance cost of a Chrysler Crossfire is $422. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
How many miles will a Chrysler Crossfire last?
Re: Who has the highest mileage on their Crossfire? I've seen some with over 160 and 200 K on the odometer. There's no reason these engines can't go 2 to 300 K miles or more if you maintain them. It's all the other "stuff" on or around the engine you'll have to replace, just like any car.
Are you having problems with your Chrysler Crossfire convertible?
