According to Au7o's analysis of 380+ owner reports, the 1992 Chrysler New Yorker has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is A604 Ultradrive/42LE Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is A604 Ultradrive/42LE Automatic Transmission Failure with 200 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker, the New Yorker used the A604 Ultradrive (1990-1993, 14th gen) and 42LE (1994-1996, LH platform) automatic transmissions, both of which are prone to premature failure. The A604 was Chrysler's first electronically controlled 4-speed automatic and had numerous reliability issues including solenoid failures, premature clutch pack wear, and TCM malfunctions. The 42LE in the LH-based New Yorker is somewhat improved but still suffers from solenoid pack and torque converter issues. Both transmissions are extremely sensitive to fluid type and condition.
Begin with a full transmission diagnosis using a scan tool capable of reading Chrysler transmission/TCM codes, then verify fluid level and confirm the unit contains only the correct ATF+3 or preferably ATF+4 fluid, as incorrect fluid commonly causes harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode. If codes or symptoms point to the common failure items, replace the solenoid pack, input/output speed sensors, and inspect wiring/connectors; also service the valve body and perform the proper quick-learn/adaptation procedure where applicable. If the transmission has clutch material in the pan, persistent slipping, delayed engagement, or torque converter shudder, the unit typically needs a full rebuild or quality remanufactured replacement including updated clutch packs, seals, and often a torque converter. Typical costs range from about $300-$900 for fluid service, sensors, or solenoid-related repairs, $800-$1,500 for valve body/solenoid pack work, and roughly $2,000-$3,500+ for a complete rebuild or replacement transmission.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 200+ owners who fixed this issue
High Confidence200 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
180 owners
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 180+ owners who fixed this issue
High Confidence180 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.
Common Symptoms
Window won't go up or down
Slow window operation
Grinding noise from door
Window drops into door
How to Fix
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
⚠️NHTSA Recalls5 recalls
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
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
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
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
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
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
What are the most common Chrysler New Yorker problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 380+ owner reports, the 1992-1992 Chrysler New Yorker has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: A604 Ultradrive/42LE Automatic Transmission Failure, 3.3L/3.8L V6 Engine Oil Leaks, Power Window Motor and Regulator Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chrysler New Yorker reliable?
The 1992-1992 Chrysler New Yorker has 3 known issues documented across 380+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: A604 Ultradrive/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 New Yorker problems?
Repair costs for known Chrysler New Yorker issues range from $100 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, A604 Ultradrive/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 1990-1996 Chrysler New Yorker A604 Ultradrive/42LE Automatic Transmission Failure?
The New Yorker used the A604 Ultradrive (1990-1993, 14th gen) and 42LE (1994-1996, LH platform) automatic transmissions, both of which are prone to premature failure. The A604 was Chrysler's first electronically controlled 4-speed automatic and had numerous reliability issues inc… Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: high.
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.
