1995 CHRYSLER LEBARON

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting between 2nd and 3rd gears, Slipping under load or during kickdown, Shuddering during light acceleration, Limp mode with check engine light, Complete loss of forward gears

Fix: The A604 (Ultradrive) was poorly designed for durability. Solenoid pack failures are common early warning signs (4-6 hours labor), but usually the damage is done—clutch packs burn, valve body wears. Most need a full rebuild (12-16 hours) or replacement. Band adjustments and fluid changes delay but rarely prevent failure.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200

Typical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start that clears after warmup, Oil consumption 1+ quart per 1,000 miles, Fouled spark plugs on intake valves, Rough idle when cold

Fix: The 2.5Lturbo uses hardened seals that crack over time. Requires cylinder head removal to replace all seals (8-12 hours labor). Often done with head gasket replacement since you're already there. Valve guides may need knurling or replacement if oil control is poor.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000

Typical onset: 120,000-180,000 mi

Symptoms: Deep knocking from lower engine block on cold start, Low oil pressure at idle when warm, Metallic rattling under load, Oil pressure warning light flickering

Fix: Poor oil change intervals and turbo heat stress (on turbo models) lead to bearing failure. Requires complete engine teardown and crankshaft inspection (20-28 hours for in-frame rebuild). If crank is scored, you're looking at machining or replacement. Many shops recommend used/reman engine swap instead.

Estimated cost: $2,500-4,500

Typical onset: 100,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, Coolant loss with no visible leaks, Overheating under load, Milky oil on dipstick, Bubbling in coolant reservoir when running

Fix: The Mitsubishi 3.0L V6 is prone to head gasket failure, often on both banks due to inadequate cooling design. Requires removal of both heads, resurfacing, and new gaskets (14-18 hours). Check for warped heads—if machining exceeds spec, heads need replacement. Always do both sides.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,000

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking when shifting from Park to Drive/Reverse, Excessive engine movement visible from engine bay, Vibration at idle in gear, Harsh engagement into gear

Fix: Rubber transmission mounts deteriorate and tear, allowing excessive drivetrain movement. This accelerates wear on CV axles and transmission linkage. Simple replacement job (1.5-2.5 hours). Often replaced alongside motor mounts.

Estimated cost: $180-350

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Oil leaking from turbocharger area, Blue smoke from exhaust under boost, Rapid oil consumption after highway driving, Turbo whine or shaft play, Loss of boost pressure

Fix: The braided oil feed line to the turbo cracks or the banjo fittings leak. Starves the turbo of oil, leading to bearing failure and shaft damage. Must replace line and inspect turbo (3-5 hours). If turbo bearings are damaged, figure turbo rebuild or replacement adds another $600-1,200.

Estimated cost: $400-1,800

Symptoms: Hard starting when hot, Hesitation or stumble during acceleration, Stalling at idle after driving, Fuel pump whine from tank area

Fix: Factory fuel filters were often neglected since they're not in the maintenance schedule prominently. A clogged filter overworks the in-tank pump. Replace filter every 30,000 mi (1 hour labor). If pump is whining, it's likely damaged—pump replacement is 2-4 hours, requires tank drop.

Estimated cost: $80-500