2004 Chrysler Crossfire Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2004 model year · 400+ owner reports · Updated April 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 400+ owner reports, the 2004 Chrysler Crossfire has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Rear Coil Spring Breakage ($300-$700 repair). The most commonly reported issue is EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure with 150 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 5 Known Issues

Filter:

On the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire, rear coil springs crack and break, especially in cold climates and on rough roads. The broken spring end can puncture a tire or damage the wheel well. The Crossfire uses Mercedes SLK components that are susceptible to corrosion.

Common Symptoms

Clunking from rear
Rear of car sits lower on one side
Scraping noise over bumps
Visible broken spring coil

How to Fix

Replace both rear coil springs as a pair (even if only one has broken). Aftermarket springs from Eibach or Vogtland are available. Inspect for corrosion on remaining springs during routine maintenance.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeComplete strut and shock absorber set for full suspension refresh (KYB Excel-G Strut/Shock Set)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFour-wheel alignment kit with cam bolts for proper tire wear correction (Moog Alignment Cam Bolt Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$300 - $700

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

130 owners

On the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire, the ignition switch (Mercedes-sourced) commonly fails, causing the key to stick and not turn. Prevents starting the vehicle. The switch mechanism wears internally. Higher failure rate than equivalent Mercedes models.

Common Symptoms

Key won't turn in ignition
Key gets stuck and can't be removed
Intermittent starting issues
Steering lock won't release

How to Fix

Replace ignition switch assembly (Mercedes A2025450104). Use Mercedes OEM part for best quality. Graphite powder (not WD-40) can serve as temporary lubrication. Keep steering wheel centered when turning key to reduce stress on lock mechanism.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 130+ owners who fixed this issue

TipMercedes ignition switch A2025450104 - use Mercedes OEM part for best quality. Independent Mercedes shop preferred for replacement
TipUse graphite powder (NEVER WD-40) for temporary lubrication. Keep steering wheel centered when turning key to reduce stress on lock
UpgradeProfessional Bluetooth OBD-II scanner for reading electrical system fault codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool)
View on Amazon
UpgradeAutomotive digital multimeter for diagnosing electrical faults and testing circuits (Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter)
View on Amazon
UpgradeElectrical contact cleaner for restoring connections and preventing corrosion (CRC QD Electronic Cleaner)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

Research This Issue

130+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence130 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire, the SAM module (Mercedes-sourced body control module) located in the trunk area suffers from water intrusion causing corrosion of circuits. This triggers random electrical faults including lighting, power window, and central locking failures.

This issue also affects: Audi Q5 Sportback, Jaguar I-PACE, Cadillac Escalade ESV

Common Symptoms

Random electrical faults
Lights malfunction
Central locking fails
Multiple warning lights on dash

How to Fix

Remove SAM module, clean circuit board of corrosion, and reseal the module housing. Identify and seal the water intrusion point (often the trunk gasket or rear window seal). Severe corrosion requires SAM replacement and coding.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeDirect-fit window regulator assembly with motor for easy installation (Dorman Power Window Regulator and Motor Assembly)
View on Amazon
UpgradePremium electrical tape for wiring repairs and harness wrapping (3M Super 33+ Vinyl Electrical Tape)
View on Amazon
UpgradeSplit wire loom tubing to protect repaired or exposed wiring harnesses (DEI Split Wire Loom Tubing)
View on Amazon
UpgradeWeatherproof terminal connector kit for reliable wiring repairs (Molex Automotive Terminal Connector Kit)
View on Amazon
UpgradeAutomotive relay replacement set for common relay failures (Bosch Automotive Relay 5-Pin 12V)
View on Amazon
UpgradeDigital multimeter for diagnosing fuse, relay, and module electrical faults (Innova Digital Multimeter)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$100 - $800

Research This Issue

0+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

150 owners

On the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire, the Crossfire (built on Mercedes SLK R170 platform, sharing 80% of components) commonly experiences EGR solenoid failures and premature catalytic converter failure. The EGR solenoid is the most common cause of check engine lights. Catalytic converter rattles and fails, especially noticeable when accelerating from cold.

This issue also affects: Audi A6, BMW 8 Series, BMW i3

Common Symptoms

Check engine light (EGR codes)
Rattling noise from underneath when accelerating from cold
Failed emissions inspection
Rough idle
Reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Replace EGR valve (Mercedes part A6121400060, fits Crossfire directly). Replace catalytic converter if rattling. Many Mercedes SLK R170 parts are direct replacements at lower cost. Use Mercedes dealer or independent Mercedes shop for best results.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 150+ owners who fixed this issue

TipEGR valve Mercedes part A6121400060 fits Crossfire directly - cross-reference Mercedes SLK320 R170 parts for cheaper replacements throughout
TipThe engine bay is virtually identical to SLK320 - use Mercedes dealer or independent Mercedes shop for best results and parts availability
UpgradeDirect-fit catalytic converter meets federal emissions standards (MagnaFlow Catalytic Converter)
View on Amazon
UpgradeUpstream O2 sensor should be replaced with the catalytic converter (Denso Oxygen Sensor)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,000

Research This Issue

150+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence150 reportsLast reported by owners Apr 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

120 owners

On the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire, a/C compressor failure is a known weak point. Interiors prone to rattles, worn trim, and failing seat motors. Headlights collect condensation inside the lens. Brake discs and pads wear quickly. These are known aging issues common to the Mercedes R170 platform.

Common Symptoms

A/C blowing warm air
Clicking or noise from A/C compressor
Interior rattles and trim pieces loosening
Power seat stops adjusting
Headlight fogging/condensation

How to Fix

Replace A/C compressor. Source interior trim clips and parts from Mercedes SLK R170 donor vehicles. Headlight lenses can be resealed. Junkyard Mercedes SLK R170s are excellent parts sources since wheelbase and track width are identical to SLK320.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 120+ owners who fixed this issue

TipJunkyard Mercedes SLK R170s are excellent parts sources - wheelbase and track are identical to SLK320. Cross-reference R170 parts for everything
TipABS sensor failures are also common - keep a spare on hand. Interior parts and exterior trim interchange directly with SLK
UpgradePrestone coolant flush kit for complete cooling system service (Prestone Coolant Flush Kit)
View on Amazon
UpgradeStant thermostat — preventive replacement during coolant service (Stant Thermostat)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,500

Research This Issue

120+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence120 reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler Crossfire problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 400+ owner reports, the 2004-2004 Chrysler Crossfire has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Coil Spring Breakage, EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure, Ignition Switch Failure - Key Sticking. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chrysler Crossfire reliable?

The 2004-2004 Chrysler Crossfire has 5 known issues documented across 400+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Rear Coil Spring Breakage. 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 Crossfire problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler Crossfire issues range from $100 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Coil Spring Breakage, typically costs $300-$700 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire Rear Coil Spring Breakage?

Rear coil springs crack and break, especially in cold climates and on rough roads. The broken spring end can puncture a tire or damage the wheel well. The Crossfire uses Mercedes SLK components that are susceptible to corrosion. Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure?

The Crossfire (built on Mercedes SLK R170 platform, sharing 80% of components) commonly experiences EGR solenoid failures and premature catalytic converter failure. The EGR solenoid is the most common cause of check engine lights. Catalytic converter rattles and fails, especially… Repairs typically run $200-$2,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire Ignition Switch Failure - Key Sticking?

The ignition switch (Mercedes-sourced) commonly fails, causing the key to stick and not turn. Prevents starting the vehicle. The switch mechanism wears internally. Higher failure rate than equivalent Mercedes models. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Water Intrusion?

The SAM module (Mercedes-sourced body control module) located in the trunk area suffers from water intrusion causing corrosion of circuits. This triggers random electrical faults including lighting, power window, and central locking failures. Repairs typically run $100-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire A/C Compressor Failure and Interior Deterioration?

A/C compressor failure is a known weak point. Interiors prone to rattles, worn trim, and failing seat motors. Headlights collect condensation inside the lens. Brake discs and pads wear quickly. These are known aging issues common to the Mercedes R170 platform. Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: low.

2004 Chrysler Crossfire Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 5 Known Issues

2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: Rear Coil Spring Breakage#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: Ignition Switch Failure - Key Sticking#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Water Intrusion#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: A/C Compressor Failure and Interior Deterioration#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Chrysler Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler Crossfire problems?

Is the Chrysler Crossfire reliable?

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

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire Rear Coil Spring Breakage?

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure?

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire Ignition Switch Failure - Key Sticking?

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Water Intrusion?

What is the 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire A/C Compressor Failure and Interior Deterioration?