Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Top speed (225 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2004
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on individual vehicle history and maintenance.
9 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentAutomatic transmission failures
Premature breakdowns, including multiple failures within a short ownership period, described as "dogshit early on.".
- Very frequentChronic electrical problems
Erratic behavior including flickering dashboard lights, random accessory activation (horns, wipers, alarms), parasitic battery drains, non-functional interior lights, and complete electrical system gremlins. Often intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
- Very frequentEngine oil sludge (2.7L V6)
Severe oil contamination leading to engine failure, noted as a known and widespread flaw.
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentOil consumption/leaks
Requiring frequent oil addition (e.g., a quart per week), with oil light flickering at idle.
- RecurrentEngine stalling/rough idle
Stalling at stops, rough cold starts, often linked to faulty idle air control valves or other sensors.
- RecurrentCooling system failures
Including water pump failures and oil cooler leaks leading to coolant contamination or oil loss.
- IsolatedBrake issues
Including calipers locking up and persistent burning smells from one wheel despite repairs.
- IsolatedSteering issues
Steering wheel not self-centering after turns despite replacement of suspension components.
- IsolatedBody rust
Noted as a common issue that "creeps up.".
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Anecdotal feedback suggests avoiding the 2.7L V6 engine due to widespread reports of oil sludge issues. Some owners express preference for the larger 3.2L or 3.5L V6 engines for better performance and perceived reliability, though these are not immune to other problems. The LXI trim is mentioned but without specific praise relative to base models.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Buick LeSabre, Pontiac Bonneville, Oldsmobile 98 Regency, Chrysler LHS and Dodge Intrepid.
Is the Concorde right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on individual vehicle history and maintenance. A significant portion of long-term owner reports describe the Concorde as a comfortable, spacious, and capable highway cruiser, particularly when purchased at a low price point. Positive experiences highlight smooth ride quality, powerful available engines (specifically the 3.2L and 3.5L V6), immense interior and trunk space, and excellent value for money when acquired used. However, an equally strong and very frequent consensus exists regarding poor long-term reliability. The vehicle is widely criticized for chronic and severe mechanical and electrical issues, including premature transmission failures, persistent electrical gremlins, and engine problems (notably oil sludge in the 2.7L V6). The overarching narrative positions the Concorde as a car that can be a comfortable bargain if meticulously maintained and lucky, but is more often remembered as a frustrating and costly ownership experience prone to major failures.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a large, front-wheel-drive American sedan offering more interior space and a softer, more comfortable ride compared to many contemporaries. Within the Chrysler lineup, it is seen as a more luxurious alternative to the Dodge Intrepid. Compared to GM rivals like the Buick LeSabre and Pontiac Bonneville, the Concorde is frequently described as offering superior interior space and a more modern "cab-forward" design but is overwhelmingly criticized for inferior transmission reliability and electrical durability. The GM 3.8L V6 engine is specifically cited as more reliable than Chrysler's V6 offerings. The consensus is that while the Concorde could match or exceed competitors in initial comfort and space, it fell far short in long-term dependability.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration advice from owner discussions. Implicit recommendations derived from problem reports include: avoid the 2.7L engine; seek models with meticulous maintenance records; be prepared for significant and recurring repair costs; and consider undercoating to combat rust, which is mentioned as a common issue.
General recommendations
Only recommended for experienced DIY mechanics or buyers with very low financial expectations and high tolerance for repairs. Suitable as an ultra-low-cost, temporary transportation solution if purchased for a few hundred dollars with the understanding it may be disposable. Not recommended as a primary, reliable vehicle for anyone unable to perform their own diagnostics and repairs. Essential to have any potential purchase thoroughly inspected for active electrical issues, transmission health, and engine condition (especially sludge in the 2.7L). Owners strongly advise budgeting for immediate and ongoing repairs. For most buyers, a contemporary GM product with the 3.8L V6 is presented as a more dependable alternative.
Remarks
The vast majority of owner feedback pertains to the second-generation LH-platform Concorde (1998-2004). The notorious 2.7L engine sludge problem is a defining flaw for that generation, with some indication the issue was addressed in later production years (e.g., 2004). The 42LE/42RLE automatic transmission (also called the Ultradrive) is another core weakness, with early models (e.g., 1995) being particularly problematic, though some owners report improved reliability in later iterations. Electrical issues appear pervasive and random, affecting everything from instrument clusters to security systems. The vehicle's reputation is that of a fundamentally flawed design that, when functional, provides commendable comfort and space, but is burdened by low durability. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and experiences.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2000. Years to avoid: 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Chrysler Concorde years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | 82 | 1 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2003 | 54 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2002 | 156 | 1 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2001 | 114 | 4 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2000 | 318 | 8 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1999 | 335 | 5 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1998 | 179 | 3 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1997 | 158 | 2 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1996 | 193 | 2 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices26 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2004 · latches/locks/linkages:hood:latchcampaign 03V332000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, AN INTERNAL HOOD LATCH COMPONENT MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH A CRACK, WHICH COULD PROPAGATE AND BREAK, ALLOWING THE PRIMARY/SECONDARY LATCH SPRING TO DISENGAGE.
2002 · seats:front assembly:reclinercampaign 03V035000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.
2001 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
2001 · seats:front assembly:reclinercampaign 03V035000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.
2001 · child seatcampaign 00V366000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." SOME OF THE OWNER'S MANUALS FOR THESE VEHICLES ARE MISSING INSTRUCTIONS THAT PROVIDE A STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE, INCLUDING DIAGRAMS, FOR PROPERLY ATTACHING A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM'S TETHER STRAP TO THE TETHER ANCHORAGE.
2001 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 01V273000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES (NON-SUNROOF ONLY) FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT."
2000 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
2000 · seats:front assembly:reclinercampaign 03V035000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.
2000 · seat beltscampaign 00V034000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SEAT BELT SHOULDER HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE TURNING LOOP (ATL) TOP MOUNTING BOLT WAS INADEQUATELY MANUFACTURED.
2000 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 00V033000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE MOLDING FLASH ON THE PRIMARY LEVER MAY PREVENT THE OPERATION OF THE G-LOCK AND TILT LOCK FUNCTIONS ON SOME OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE RETRACTORS.
2000 · child seatcampaign 00V366000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." SOME OF THE OWNER'S MANUALS FOR THESE VEHICLES ARE MISSING INSTRUCTIONS THAT PROVIDE A STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE, INCLUDING DIAGRAMS, FOR PROPERLY ATTACHING A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM'S TETHER STRAP TO THE TETHER ANCHORAGE.
2000 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 00V180000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: NON-ABS EQUIPPED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER PISTON RETAINER SNAP RING MAY HAVE BEEN BENT INWARD DURING THE ASSEMBLY PROCESS. THE MASTER CYLINDER PISTON MAY BE IN A "BRAKE APPLIED" POSITION DUE TO THE DAMAGED PISTON RETAINER SNAP RING. WHEN THE PISTON IS IN THE APPLIED POSITION, THE FLUID COMPENSATION PORTS ARE CLOSED WHICH RESULTS IN A BRAKE DRAG CONDITION.
2000 · air bags:frontalcampaign 99V343000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG INFLATOR ASSEMBLY CONTAINS AN INCORRECT INFLATOR CHARGE AMOUNT.
2000 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 01V273000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES (NON-SUNROOF ONLY) FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT."
1999 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
11 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
3.5 i V6 24V
3.5L 6-cylinder · 258 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2002–2004