Chrysler Cirrus Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

1995-2000 model years · Based on 310+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 310+ owner reports, the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious are 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure ($800-$1,800 repair) and 41TE Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$2,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure with 160 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $2,500. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

2
Critical
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All 2 Known Issues

Filter:
Community Reported
160 owners

The Mitsubishi-sourced 2.5L SOHC V6 (6G73) in the Cirrus is prone to head gasket failure, particularly after any overheating event. The aluminum heads warp easily and the factory head gaskets do not tolerate repeated thermal cycling well. The V6 layout makes the rear head gasket extremely labor-intensive to access due to firewall proximity. Head gasket failure typically presents as coolant leaking externally at the rear of the passenger-side head, or internally causing white exhaust smoke. The 2.4L 4-cylinder is a more reliable alternative.

Common Symptoms

  • White smoke from exhaust
  • Coolant leaking from rear of passenger-side head
  • Engine overheating
  • Coolant level dropping with no visible external leak
  • Milky residue under oil filler cap

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 160+ owners who fixed this issue

  • Tip
  • Tip
Typical repair cost:$800 - $1,800

Research This Issue

160+ owners have reported this issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
High Confidence160 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
150 owners

The 41TE (A604) 4-speed automatic transmission in the Cirrus suffers from the same reliability issues that plagued this transmission across the Chrysler lineup. Solenoid pack failures, premature clutch pack wear, and TCM (Transmission Control Module) malfunctions cause harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode. The Cirrus's 2.5L V6 puts more stress on the transmission than the 2.4L 4-cylinder. The transmission is extremely sensitive to fluid type and level - only Mopar ATF+4 should be used.

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or banging shifts
  • Transmission slipping under acceleration
  • Stuck in limp mode (2nd gear only)
  • Delayed engagement from Park to Drive
  • Check engine light with transmission fault codes

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 150+ owners who fixed this issue

  • Tip
  • Tip
Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,500

Research This Issue

150+ owners have reported this issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
High Confidence150 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler Cirrus problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 310+ owner reports, the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure, 41TE Automatic Transmission Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chrysler Cirrus reliable?

The 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus has 2 known issues documented across 310+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure and 41TE Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler Cirrus problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler Cirrus issues range from $200 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.5L V6 Head Gasket Failure, typically costs $800-$1,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Chrysler Cirrus is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Chrysler Cirrus. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1995-2000 Chrysler Cirrus with 2 documented issues from 310+ owner reports.

Get DIY Repair Guides for Your Chrysler Cirrus

AI-powered step-by-step repair and maintenance guides tailored to your exact vehicle. Enter your year, make, and model to get started.

Get Started Free