1969 Chrysler Imperial problems

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The Chrysler Imperial, introduced in 1926, was Chrysler's top-of-the-line vehicle for much of its history. Models were produced with the Chrysler name until 1954, after which it became a standalone brand; and again from 1990 to 1993. The company positioned the cars as a prestige marque to rival Cadillac, Continental, Lincoln, Duesenberg, Pierce Arrow, Cord, and Packard. According to Antique Automobile, "The adjective 'imperial' according to Webster's Dictionary means sovereign, supreme, superior or of unusual size or excellence. The word imperial thus justly befits Chrysler's highest priced model."

For several decades and multiple generations, the Imperial was the exclusive Chrysler and the favorite choice of luxurious transportation for senior executive leadership, government officials, royalty and various celebrities in comparison to the more affordable Chrysler New Yorker. Over the years the appearance, technological advancements and luxurious accommodations updated with the latest trends and fashionable appearances. Limousines, town cars and convertibles were the usual appearances, while special coachwork choices were provided by the industry's best providers, to include Derham, Fleetwood, LeBaron, and others.

The Chrysler Imperial rose was cultivated in 1952 and used to promote the brand.

1969 Chrysler Imperial

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Common 1969 Chrysler Imperial problems

The Chrysler Imperial 1969 is known for its luxurious features and spacious interior, but it also has several common problems that have been reported by owners.

One of the most common issues is starting problems. Many Imperial owners have reported that their cars will run perfectly and then, for no apparent reason, quit on the road or refuse to start. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty relays, faulty sensors, or issues with the car's computer. To diagnose and repair starting problems, it is recommended to read the wiring diagrams and understand where relays and sensors are located and what they do. It is also important to note that during the time when these cars were on the road, there were few mechanics who could trouble shoot them, and most people who owned them had to become accustomed to knowing under what condition their car did certain things in order to make sense of the information and find the faulty part or parts.

Another issue that has been reported by Imperial owners is weaker high-speed handling, more noise, and a "much worse than expected" driving experience. This problem was first reported by Consumer Reports in 1970 and has been a common complaint among Imperial owners ever since. It is believed that this problem is caused by the car's design, which emphasizes luxury and comfort over performance and handling.

The 1969 Imperial also suffered from a problem with the dash, which was prone to being repaired or replaced. This was a common problem with the 1980s Imperials, and it is believed that the asterisk next to the mileage on the dash indicates that it has either been repaired or replaced.

Another common problem with the 1969 Imperial is its size and weight. The car is known for its spacious interior and luxurious features, but it is also a large and heavy vehicle, which can make it difficult to handle and maneuver in tight spaces. This problem is especially noticeable when parking, as the car's large size can make it difficult to fit into small parking spaces.

In summary, the Chrysler Imperial 1969 is a luxurious and spacious vehicle, but it is also known for several common problems, including starting issues, weaker high-speed handling, and a problem with the dash. These problems can be difficult to diagnose and repair, and it is recommended that Imperial owners read the wiring diagrams and understand where relays and sensors are located and what they do in order to make sense of the information and find the faulty part or parts. Additionally, the car's large size and weight can make it difficult to handle and maneuver in tight spaces, which is another common complaint among Imperial owners.

1969 Chrysler Imperial engine

Are Chrysler Imperials rare?

1949 Imperials are very rare as production records show only 50 Imperial sedans and 85 Imperial Crown limousines were built. The retail price for the 1949 Imperial was US$4,664 ($59,725 in 2023 dollars) and US$5,334 ($62,613 in 2023 dollars) for the Imperial Crown limousine.

How much horsepower does a 1969 Chrysler Imperial have?

350 horsepower

The engine for the 1969 Imperial was a 440-cid V-8 with 350 horsepower. The only available transmission was a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic.

Why are Chrysler Imperials banned from Demolition Derby?

The 1964–1966 Imperial achieved near-legendary status for its crashworthiness, and it is still banned from most derby events. Scrap vehicles are purchased from junkyards and private owners, usually for less than US$500, though some select (and rust-free) mid-1970s sedans and station wagons may go for more than $1,000.

What engine did the Chrysler Imperial have?

The new model called the Imperial shared the same body as the cheaper Chrysler Six but had a slightly larger engine, being a 288.6 cu in (4.7 L). Subsequent generations were based on the Chrysler Royal, Airflow, Saratoga, and New Yorker.

Why are Chrysler Imperials banned from Demolition Derby?

The 1964–1966 Imperial achieved near-legendary status for its crashworthiness, and it is still banned from most derby events. Scrap vehicles are purchased from junkyards and private owners, usually for less than US$500, though some select (and rust-free) mid-1970s sedans and station wagons may go for more than $1,000.

How much horsepower does a 1969 Chrysler Imperial have?

350 horsepower

The engine for the 1969 Imperial was a 440-cid V-8 with 350 horsepower. The only available transmission was a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic.

Are Chrysler Imperials rare?

1949 Imperials are very rare as production records show only 50 Imperial sedans and 85 Imperial Crown limousines were built. The retail price for the 1949 Imperial was US$4,664 ($59,725 in 2023 dollars) and US$5,334 ($62,613 in 2023 dollars) for the Imperial Crown limousine.

When did Chrysler stop making Imperials?

1975

Imperial was the Chrysler Corporation's luxury automobile brand from 1955 to 1975. The Imperial name had been used since 1926, as a Chrysler luxury model, the Chrysler Imperial.

1969 Chrysler Imperial car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chrysler Imperial problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1969 Chrysler Imperial vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1969 Chrysler Imperial complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1969 Chrysler Imperial.

2001-04-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: AFTER HEARING A LOUD BANG, HIGH BEAMS WENT OFF AND ON, THEN FAILED. DAYS LATER OWNER REALIZED BANGING WAS HEADLIGHT DOORS OPENING AND CLOSING.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1969 Chrysler Imperial problems:

Repairing Shifting Problems On Your Imperial's Transmission
Repairing Shifting Problems On Your Imperial's Transmission
https://www.web.imperialclub.info/Repair/Transmission/shifting.htm

Oct 4, 2004 ... You can also use one from any '69-73 fullsize Chrysler, Plymouth or Dodge that was equipped with this option (it was standard on Imperial).

68 Imperial Crown 4 door - Electric windows issues (no power to ...
68 Imperial Crown 4 door - Electric windows issues (no power to ...
https://www.forcbodiesonly.com/mopar-forum/threads/68-imperial-crown-4-door-electric-windows-issues-no-power-to-switches.65360/

Jul 7, 2021 ... You can print out the pages and highlight circuits. I've bought several from this vendor: 1968 Chrysler Shop Manual CD 68 Imperial 300 New ...

Diagnosing and Repairing Your Imperial's Starting Problems
Diagnosing and Repairing Your Imperial's Starting Problems
https://www.web.imperialclub.info/Repair/Electrical/start.htm

Oct 12, 2004 ... My '55 Imperial has lost its "spark". The car has run from November 2003 when I got to about a month ago. I checked the spark by removing the #1 ...

What's Wrong with the Chrysler Imperial?
What's Wrong with the Chrysler Imperial?
http://www.chryslerproblems.com/models/imperial/

3 complaints. Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com. 48 service bulletins. Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems ...

1969 Imperial Convertible - General Discussion - Antique ...
1969 Imperial Convertible - General Discussion - Antique ...
https://forums.aaca.org/topic/186862-1969-imperial-convertible/

Feb 2, 2012 ... Lincoln Marks and even some Chrysler Cordobas were "convertible-ized" back then. This proves that the issues with the rear seat upholstery and ...

Other years of Chrysler Imperial

chrysler imperial 1990 photo
Imperial 1990
Chrysler

130

2

3

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chrysler imperial 1991 photo
Imperial 1991
Chrysler

111

3

6

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chrysler imperial 1992 photo
Imperial 1992
Chrysler

62

2

5

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chrysler imperial 1993 photo
Imperial 1993
Chrysler

37

1

8

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chrysler imperial 1994 photo
Imperial 1994
Chrysler

4

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chrysler imperial 1995 photo
Imperial 1995
Chrysler

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1969 Chrysler Imperial photo