According to Au7o's analysis of 180+ owner reports, the 1990 Chrysler New Yorker has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is 3.3L/3.8L V6 Engine Oil Leaks with 180 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker, the 3.3L and 3.8L pushrod V6 engines in the New Yorker develop multiple oil leaks with age, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, oil pan gasket, and timing cover seal. The rubber gaskets and seals harden and shrink from heat cycling over time. While these engines are otherwise quite reliable and long-lasting, the oil leaks can cause exhaust smoke, oil dripping on the driveway, and low oil level if not monitored. The rear main seal is the most expensive repair due to labor access requirements.
Visible oil on engine exterior and exhaust manifold
Low oil level between changes
Smoke from engine bay after extended driving
How to Fix
Diagnose the leak by thoroughly cleaning the engine, adding UV dye to the oil if needed, and inspecting common leak points on the 3.3L/3.8L V6 including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, timing cover/front crank seal, and rear main seal. Repair involves replacing the failed gasket or seal, checking the PCV/breather system so crankcase pressure is not forcing oil past seals, and resealing mating surfaces with the correct RTV where specified by Chrysler. Valve cover and oil pan gasket repairs are usually the least expensive, while timing cover and especially rear main seal repairs require much more labor because of front accessory or transmission removal. Typical costs range from about $150-$400 for valve cover or minor upper-engine leaks, $300-$700 for oil pan or timing cover resealing, and roughly $700-$1,400 for a rear main seal depending on labor rates.
High Confidence180 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker, power window motors and regulators fail frequently, especially on the driver's side which sees the most use. The motor gears strip and the regulator cables can fray, leaving the window stuck down or inoperable.
Replace window motor and regulator as a complete assembly. Driver's side typically fails first. Check the master window switch on the driver's door as switch failures can mimic motor problems.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES BUILT WITH 3.5L ENGINES. THE FUEL INJECTION DELIVERY SYSTEM CAN LEAK FUEL FROM SOME OF THE SEALING O-RINGS OR FROM HAIR LINE CRACKS IN THE THERMOSET FUEL INJECTION RAIL.
Campaign #98V18400006/08/1998
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM ATTACHING BRACKETS CAN CRACK DUE TO FATIGUE AND SEPARATE FROM THE ENGINE CRADLE.
Campaign #99V21500009/08/1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
THE ABS HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT CAN EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE BRAKE ACTUATOR PISTON SEAL WEAR CAUSING PUMP-MOTOR DETERIORATION.
Campaign #96V09900013/06/1996
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
THE RIGHT STEERING TIE ROD CAN RUB THROUGH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WIRING HARNESS CAUSING A SHORT CIRCUIT WHICH RESULTS IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS INCLUDING ENGINE STALLING AND AN INOPERATIVE PARK/STARTER INTERLOCK SYSTEM.
Campaign #94V02400008/02/1994
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
THE ZINC PLATING OPERATION PERFORMED ON THE UPPER STEERING COLUMN SHAFT COUPLING BOLT CAUSED HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT AND BREAKAGE OF THE BOLT.
Campaign #92V01500014/02/1992
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What are the most common Chrysler New Yorker problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 180+ owner reports, the 1990 Chrysler New Yorker has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.3L/3.8L V6 Engine Oil Leaks, Power Window Motor and Regulator Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Chrysler New Yorker reliable?
The 1990 Chrysler New Yorker has 2 known issues documented across 180+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler New Yorker problems?
Repair costs for known Chrysler New Yorker issues range from $100 to $800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker 3.3L/3.8L V6 Engine Oil Leaks?
The 3.3L and 3.8L pushrod V6 engines in the New Yorker develop multiple oil leaks with age, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, oil pan gasket, and timing cover seal. The rubber gaskets and seals harden and shrink from heat cycling over time. While these en… Repairs typically run $100-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker Power Window Motor and Regulator Failure?
Power window motors and regulators fail frequently, especially on the driver's side which sees the most use. The motor gears strip and the regulator cables can fray, leaving the window stuck down or inoperable. Repairs typically run $100-$350. Severity: low.
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.
