1997 Chrysler Prowler Problems: 10 Known Issues

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L V6 (SOHC), the engine PCM (Powertrain Control Module) suffers an internal memory-chip failure that sets code P0601 'Internal Control Module Check-Sum Error' and illuminates the Check Engine Light, which also causes the car to fail most state inspections. If ignored, the PCM progressively degrades and can fail completely, leaving the car stranded. Because the Prowler's PCM is a low-volume, long-out-of-production unit, replacement is a documented ownership headache.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L SOHC V6, the Prowler uses a cable-driven window regulator whose plastic cable-guide tubing and jacket are subjected to severe repeated bending stress. Over time the cable jacket cracks and the plastic guides break, so the window binds, drops, will not seal against the convertible top, or makes a faint ratcheting noise instead of moving smoothly. Because window position must match the convertible-top seal, a failed regulator also causes wind/water leaks. The OEM regulators are largely obsolete/discontinued, making this a high-demand pain point for owners.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L SOHC V6, the front lower ball joints are a widely reported weak point and were the subject of Chrysler Safety Recall C03 (NHTSA campaign 03V034000). Moisture intrusion past the ball joint boot causes internal corrosion and stud wear. The joint can separate from the lower control arm (A-arm) without warning, most commonly when pulling away from a curb with the wheels turned or when driving straight at normal speed, resulting in sudden loss of steering, wheel collapse, and a crash. Because the Prowler has a low production volume and aging fleet, this remains the single most safety-critical known issue.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L SOHC V6, the rear-mounted 42LE (A606) automatic can drop into limp-in (fail-safe) mode when the electronic shift solenoid pack develops internal faults. Symptoms are the transmission locking into a single gear (commonly 2nd, or only 1st and reverse) until the ignition is cycled, often accompanied by a check-engine/transmission light. This is distinct from the fluid-overheating and AutoStick harsh-shift issues: here the solenoid pack itself (or its wiring/connector) is the root cause and typically sets solenoid-performance codes.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L V6 (SOHC), owners report the in-tank electric fuel pump failing, producing a crank-but-no-start or hard-hot-start condition where the pump has power but delivers no pressure to the fuel rail. The problem is compounded because the original OEM Prowler fuel pump/sending-unit assembly is no longer available and correct aftermarket assemblies are limited, making sourcing a proper replacement difficult.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L SOHC V6, owners commonly report the fuel gauge not reading full after fill-up or reading erratically. The in-tank fuel level sending unit (and its O-ring, shared with early Harley V-Rods) is the usual culprit, and Chrysler released a fuel-control/regulator update to address the gauge not reading full. The gauge on this platform also does not respond when the sender is moved by hand on the bench, which leads to misdiagnosis.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler, the Prowler's custom hot rod styling restricts airflow to the radiator, causing overheating in slow traffic or hot weather. The front-mounted radiator receives limited air through the narrow grille opening and the cooling fans may not provide adequate flow.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L V6 (SOHC), the Prowler's hand-built folding soft top is prone to the flexible rear window delaminating/separating from the surrounding top fabric as the bonding adhesive ages and dries out, typically starting at the lower corners. Owners also report the top scuffing the area just below the rear glass when the multi-stage folding sequence in the owner's manual isn't followed exactly, and water leaks past aged rubber seals. Because the top is a low-volume, hand-assembled design, replacement tops are expensive and hard to source.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L V6 (SOHC), one of the three failures Prowler owners say 'will develop with every Prowler' is deterioration of the speaker foam surround (the flexible ring around the cone), starting with the door speakers first. As the foam dry-rots the speakers distort, rattle, buzz, or blow out entirely. It is a universal age-related issue on all model years, driven by the original foam-surround OEM speakers.

On the 1997-2002 Chrysler Prowler 3.5L SOHC V6, the Chrysler 3.5L SOHC V6 is known to weep oil from the camshaft position sensor O-ring and valve-cover sealing surfaces as the rubber hardens with age. On the low-mileage, long-parked Prowler fleet this shows up as oil residue on the block, a burning-oil smell, and occasionally an oil-contaminated cam sensor connector. Left unaddressed it can foul the sensor and contaminate wiring.