1997 Chrysler LHS Problems: 3 Known Issues
1997 model year · 350+ owner reports · Updated September 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1997 Chrysler LHS has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption with 180 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
1997 · All trims · All engines
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SEAT BACK RECLINER BOLT BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN THE SEAT BACK RECLINING UNEXPECTEDLY.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN VAN, WAGON, PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES." THE FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTOR MAY NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
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."
CHILD SEAT
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.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
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.
+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Chrysler LHS problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 1997 Chrysler LHS has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure, 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption, 41TE/42LE Transmission Solenoid and Shift Issues. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chrysler LHS reliable?
The 1997 Chrysler LHS has 3 known issues documented across 350+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 42LE 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 LHS problems?
Repair costs for known Chrysler LHS issues range from $50 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $200-$3,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 42LE Automatic Transmission Failure?
The 42LE 4-speed automatic transmission in the LHS shares the same failure patterns as the Intrepid, Concorde, and 300M. Solenoid pack failures, torque converter clutch issues, and internal clutch pack wear lead to harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode. The LHS's heavy curb wei… Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 3.5L V6 Excessive Oil Consumption?
The 3.5L SOHC V6 in the LHS develops excessive oil consumption over time, typically burning 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles. The primary causes are worn valve stem seals that allow oil to leak past the valve guides into the combustion chamber, and piston ring wear. Oil sludge for… Repairs typically run $50-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1994-2001 Chrysler LHS 41TE/42LE Transmission Solenoid and Shift Issues?
The automatic transmission develops solenoid pack failures and valve body wear causing harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and limp mode. The transmission control module can also develop cold solder joints causing intermittent issues. Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.