2003 Chrysler Town and country problems
The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan that was manufactured and marketed by Chrysler from 1990 to the 2016 model years. The third Chrysler minivan introduced in North America, the Town & Country adopted its nameplate from the flagship Chrysler station wagon line, adopting its exterior woodgrain trim as a design feature for several generations.
Marketed as the flagship of the Chrysler minivan line, five generations of the Town & Country were slotted above the extended-wheelbase Dodge Grand Caravan and Plymouth Grand Voyager. For 2017, Chrysler retired the nameplate, with sixth-generation Chrysler-division minivans becoming the Chrysler Pacifica. After the 2016 model year, Chrysler marked the sale of its 12 millionth minivan (under all three nameplates). Produced almost continuously for 75 years (with the exception of World War II and 1989), the Town & Country nameplate is the longest-produced Chrysler; its longevity is second only to the Chevrolet Suburban in worldwide automotive history.
Chrysler assembled the first three generations of the model line in its Saint Louis Assembly facility (Fenton, Missouri). The fourth and fifth-generation Town & Country were produced by Chrysler Canada by Windsor Assembly (Windsor, Ontario).
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Common 2003 Chrysler Town and country problems
The Chrysler Town and Country is a popular minivan that has been in existence since 1989. However, some years of this vehicle are better than others. When it comes to the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country, there are several common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common issues with the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country is electrical problems, which are the most reported problem that arises with this vehicle. These electrical issues can include stalling while driving, defective TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), and draining battery. These problems can make the vehicle unreliable in emergency situations and can also lead to expensive repairs.
Another common problem with the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country is engine issues, which are among the most expensive items to fix in a vehicle. These engine problems can include an engine that shuts down while driving, an engine that doesn't turn over, and an engine light that keeps turning on. These issues can be an expensive inconvenience in the worst-case scenario and can also lead to dangerous driving conditions.
In addition to electrical and engine problems, the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country has also been reported to have issues with the blind spot detection system. This issue appears most often in the 2012 version of the car and can lead to deadly accidents due to the lack of blind spot detection.
There have also been reports of steering issues with the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country, with some drivers experiencing a loud winding noise and then lock up while driving.
Despite these common problems, the 2003 Chrysler Town and Country has proven to be a real trooper, with most drivers reporting the minivan lasting anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles with excellent maintenance. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common issues and to consider them when making a purchasing decision.
How many miles will a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country last?
Expect 200,000 to 250,000 miles on the original powertrain. Safety 7/10 – Adequate, but dated safety technology make the Town & Country kind of middling in this category. Gas Mileage 7/10 – The V6 will get you 18/25 miles to the gallon, city/highway, while the V8 will do 16/23.
What are the worst years for Chrysler Town and Country?
Here are the worst years for the Chrysler Town and Country:
- 2005 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2008 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2010 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2011 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2012 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2014 Chrysler Town and Country.
What is the most common problem with Chrysler Town and Country?
Electrical problems are the most reported problem that arises with the Chrysler Town and Country.
How many miles will a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country last?
Drivers typically report that the Town & Country will last 200,000 miles on the low end, or 250,000 on the high-end. There are reports of the van reaching around half a million miles, but that's simply not gonna happen in a used model. Start shopping around for a replacement at 225,000.
How many miles will a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country last?
Expect 200,000 to 250,000 miles on the original powertrain. Safety 7/10 – Adequate, but dated safety technology make the Town & Country kind of middling in this category. Gas Mileage 7/10 – The V6 will get you 18/25 miles to the gallon, city/highway, while the V8 will do 16/23.
What are the worst years for Chrysler Town and Country?
Here are the worst years for the Chrysler Town and Country:
- 2005 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2008 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2010 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2011 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2012 Chrysler Town and Country.
- 2014 Chrysler Town and Country.
Is the Chrysler Town and Country reliable?
Chrysler Town & Country Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Chrysler Town & Country Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 4th out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $636 which means it has average ownership costs.
Is Chrysler Town and Country Safe?
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, the Chrysler Town & Country performed well and even earned five stars in overall side crash. This vehicle also earned five stars in every side barrier test, including driver, passenger and side pole.
2003 Chrysler Town and country complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chrysler Town and country.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2003 Chrysler Town and country recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chrysler Town and country.
- Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- 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.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, THE POWER LIFTGATE (PLG) LATCH MAY NOT ENGAGE THE STRIKER ALLOWING THE LIFTGATE TO OPEN WHILE DRIVING.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, AN UNBELTED PASSENGER COULD BE EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER LIFTGATE CONTROL MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN APRIL 26, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH 3.3 OR 3.8L V-6 ENGINE, THE UPPER POWER STEERING COOLER HOSE MAY SPLIT AND CAUSE A FLUID LEAK.
- Consequence: POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN AN UNDER HOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE UPPER POWER STEERING COOLER HOSE. THIS RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 27, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Manufacturer: WIX FILTERATION PRODUCTS DIVISION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- 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.
- Manufacturer: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- 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.
Negative 2003 Chrysler Town and country car reviews
Positive 2003 Chrysler Town and country car reviews
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This is the 2nd Town & Country I have purchased and I am delighted with it. It has plenty of eye appeal and plenty of road appeal. I enjoy driving it everywhere.
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with the Chrysler T&C! It sounds like it has everything you need in a car - space, power, and a great ride. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
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I recently purchased this car to replace my 96 Dodge GC ES, which I was really satisfied with. Overall, I like this car, but I am disappointed in the lack of knowledge and support from both Chrysler and the dealer. Some of the features, such as the adjustable pedals and memory seats, do not work as described in the owner's manual, and I have experienced issues with console messages. The dealer has replaced the BCM to correct some programmable functions, but there are still some issues. Additionally, the ride is a lot harder than I expected with the trailer tow package, and I have experienced the power side doors opening on their own. On the plus side, I love the spacious interior and exterior design, and I am satisfied with the car's performance and gas mileage.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new vehicle! It's always great to have a positive experience with a new car. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
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I recently purchased a Town & Country, which is the first 'home-made' vehicle to grace my driveway in almost 17 years. Although we have had good experiences with Hondas, Nissans, and Mazdas, I was intrigued by this particular vehicle and decided to buy it. It has only been a week, so it is too early to make a definitive judgement, but so far, the buying experience has been excellent and the van fits our needs perfectly. It is an incredibly comfortable cruising vessel, as demonstrated by the 1500 miles we (two adults and three BIG teens) traveled in the first week. At the end of our ten-hour drive, I turned to my wife and said, 'I could go another ten hours driving this.' Everything works perfectly, and it runs and rides great. It was definitely worth the 31K. Stay tuned for more updates next week!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chrysler Town and country problems:
2003 Chrysler Town & Country Problems and Complaints - 36 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Chrysler Town & Country? Our list of 36 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Chrysler Town & Country.
2003 Chrysler Town & Country reliability? : r/cars
Mar 18, 2015 ... The engine/transmission are completely fine and it gets ~22 mpg in her 4 mile daily commute. The worst issue was the power steering pump failing ...
2003 chrysler t&c 3.3 problems!!! | The Chrysler Minivan Fan Club ...
Aug 21, 2011 ... i start the van and it runs really rough, and sometimes shuts right off. ive replaced the fuel pump, fuel filter, maf sensor, ...
2003 Chrysler Town & Country Review, Problems, Reliability ...
Jan 13, 2023 ... Is the 2003 Chrysler Town & Country a Good Used SUV? · Overall Rating 7/10 – The 2003 Chrysler Town & Country is middle-of-the-road in more ways ...
Common Problems with 2005 Chrysler Town and Country - Q&A
Aug 13, 2023 ... 2014 Chrysler town and country. When turning key, nothing. No click, no turn over. Requires anywhere between 2-8 - Answered by a verified ...
Other years of Chrysler Town and country
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chrysler Town and country?
Milan Batz 2024-10-13
This van has had a few issues since we bought it slightly used with only 15K miles. We got a great deal on it because it had depreciated so much from new. At 28K miles, the starter went out but it was replaced by warranty. Unfortunately, at 36,800 miles, the power steering pump went out and they refused to fix it because the warranty had just expired, even though Chrysler issued a service bulletin about it. Since then, we've had a few more issues with the AC compressor, water pump, and electric gremlins with the engine management. Currently, the transmission is slipping and it's just shy of 70K miles on the clock. It gets an average of 19mpg and is a bit slow. We're looking forward to finding a new vehicle soon!
Otto Ledner 2024-09-27
I was initially thrilled with this vehicle when I purchased it. However, after five years and the amount of money I have invested in it, I have decided not to purchase another one. The steering makes a whining noise when it's cold, and the only way to fix it is to spend $400. Additionally, the gas tank will need to be replaced because the broken valve is located inside the tank. My mechanic has had a Dodge or Chrysler minivan in with problems for the past two weeks. Despite these issues, I still appreciate my minivan. However, it seems like every month I'm in the body shop for something else.
Koby Walker 2024-09-16
As a pre S & G van it would have been nice for the middle row seats to fit the rear positions as they recline and taller people could have good leg room. The console design is not too well thought out. Too rounded and could have had its' own cup holders. At just under 95,000 miles we had to replace the a/c compressor, alternator and belt slack adjuster. The front strut bearings are very clunky. Fuel economy so-so. We drove the heck out of a Mercedes Vito van in Europe (up to 100 mph/160 kph on the autobahn, in and out of small and large towns) and the 6 cylinder diesel engine gave us 27 mpg with 7 passengers and luggage. I believe that engine is now in one jeep model and a MC sedan.
Rylan Crist 2024-09-07
We were initially interested in purchasing an '04 Sienna, but the rebates and Carmax pricing on a brand new vehicle, which was nearly $10k off MSRP, were too good to pass up. Although we had high hopes for this van, we have encountered a few issues. Despite hearing great things about the T&C's quietness, we have experienced a wind leak near the driver's head due to a door alignment problem. Additionally, the windshield washer hose broke after only one week of use. Furthermore, we have only been getting 13 mpg around town and 17 mpg on a recent highway trip, which is disappointing. In hindsight, we wish we had gone with the '04 Sienna.
Rhiannon Muller 2024-05-21
I really enjoy my Town and Country van and would definitely consider purchasing another one in the future. However, I strongly recommend purchasing an extended warranty due to the various issues I have experienced with my vehicle. These issues have ranged from minor, such as a broken sliding door lock, to more significant problems, such as the recent replacement of my rack and pinion. Unfortunately, I have had to visit the shop at least four times a year. Additionally, I was disappointed to learn that the dealership provided me with incorrect information regarding the rental car coverage under the warranty. As a single mother, this has made it challenging for me to manage my work and family responsibilities while my car is being repaired. I hope that Chrysler can improve the quality of their automobiles in the future.