Oldengineer

Has anyone had an engine failure because of timing chain lubrication problems. Apparently the guys that own Intrepids and Concordes are having big problems. My Sebring has the same engine, only turned sideways.

Regards:
Oldengineer

eleyebee

If you check out www.daimlerchryslerproblems.com you should get some idea about the problems people are experiencing. It doesn't look promising. Sorry!

eleyebee

Sorry, the web address is www.diamlerchryslervehicleproblems.com.

Oldengineer

I checked out the website. Apparently the problem is primarily with the 1999 & 2000 model years. Chrysler apparently modified the design after that to eliminate the problems.

Regards:
Oldengineer

Lewiscopy

On August 26, 2004, The Center for Automotive Safety sent a letter to Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler Chrysler. In their letter they document nearly 500 engine failures due to sludge buildup. Facing similar problems with their engines, Toyota and Volkswagen have elected to etxend their warrantees to cover engine failures. Chrysler has done no such thing, apparently claiming that all 500 engine failures were due to improper maintenenace, despite the fact that many complainants have receipts showing 3000 mile oil change intervals (manual calls for 7500). Repair costs ranged as high as $9500, averaging $5200. For the full 9-page text of the letter, visit http://www.autosafety.org/article.php?did=961&scid=122
For more info, Google on "Chrysler 2.7 engine failure". You'll also find a site for a potential class action lawsuit.

rep2714

Yes I have a 01 Sebring LXI, motor is junk because of sludge buildup and timming chain failure.

leadpaint

I have the same engine in a 2002 Sebring...
Is there a way to tell if the engine is BEGINNING to build up any oil sludge, so that it can be treated before it gets too late?? Does the car show any signs? I still have warranty left!

THanks
lp

kvaughn

Does anyone know how we can detect sludge without tearing into the engine? What physicial changes might be made to our vehicle to minimize this problem (vents, etc.).

Charwatkin

Well, well, well......... here I am...... and the problem is NOT limited to the older vehicles. I own a 2004 Sebring with a 2.7L and one week ago last night had my engine light pop on.

I had been noticing that my engine would stall.... especially after being on the expressway for a while. I had about 34,676 miles when it happened. Mostly highway b/c we live right off the highway in a small town..... right between each of our work, stores, etc. Not much city driving.

Had an exhaust problem, so took it right in & suggested they changed my oil while they had it. They fixed the exhaust.... had to keep it for a few days for parts to come in, changed the oil ....... and guess what???? I was informed I had a "sludge problem" HUH????

SOUND FAMILIAR???? Picked it up yesterday & started doing research on the Internet....... What the heck??? How can they get away with this? We've been frantically printing all our info to take into the Dealership tomorrow. Are they CRAZY or What

Charwatkin

I found a site that says to take a sample of your oil & send it to a lab such aswww.blackstone-labs.com where they can test it for coolant & water comtamination, excess fuel vapors which can cause sludge. I've also seen that it's a defect in the way the engine is made - narrow passages that cause the engine to over heat. This may help prove that there is an internal problem & not from your neglect.