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Best & Worst Years of Chrysler Town & Country – Graphs & Owner Surveys

The best years of the Chrysler Town & Country are 2016, 2009-2011, 2013-2014, 2005, and 2002. The years you should absolutely avoid are 2004, 2006-2008, 2012, and 2015. Most issues are related to low reliability scores and a higher chance of major mechanical repairs. 

Chrysler chrome metal logo
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The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan that was in production from 1990 until 2016 before it was renamed the Chrysler Pacifica. The Town & Country was considered a luxury model above the Dodge Grand Caravan and Plymouth Grand Voyager, which were produced by the same manufacturer. In the United States, more than one million Town & Country minivans were sold during the production years. 

You don’t want to purchase a used minivan without first determining which Town & Country models are the best and worst. With the help of this data, you can look at how each individual model year ranks, so you can make the best choice for your family. This information is also valuable if you plan to sell your minivan. You’ll know whether it’s worth selling or if you should hold onto it.

Our data and reliability rankings come from the thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in the Chrysler Town & Country minivans. These figures combine with the survey results from Town & Country owners. These two sources provide a ton of information to help you make your decision, but we take it a step further. You’ll also find information about the safety ratings, recalls, KBB values, fuel economy, and more to give you the clearest picture possible.

Best Years

Why?

2016

Highest reliability ratings, good fuel economy rating, low chance of expensive mechanical repairs

2009-2011

High owner satisfaction, reasonable cost of ownership

2013-2014

Good reliability ratings, minimal cost of maintenance and repairs

2005

Average reliability scores, inexpensive to own

2002

Acceptable reliability rating, low cost of ownership, cheap to buy

Worst Years

Why?

2004

Lower reliability ratings, highest cost of ownership

2006-2008

Average reliability scores, increased chance of expensive engine repairs

2012

Average reliability ratings, high cost of ownership, increased chance of transmission problems

2015

Average reliability ratings, higher instances of engine and AC/heat repairs

Chrysler Town & Country Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year

There’s nothing hidden from you as you examine the data on Town & Country models. You can see every chart we have and detailed explanations for every model year. With this transparency, it’s much easier to determine which Town & Country model best suits your family. If you know which model you want, jump ahead and look at that one closer. You’ll learn more about the reliability, safety ratings, maintenance expenses, fuel economy scores, and owner thoughts for each one. 

It’s also wise to factor in the reliability of other minivans. You may decide to look at the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Dodge Grand Caravan.

If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.

Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years

Chrysler Town & Country Engine Reliability Score

To ensure you see the whole picture, we’ve used two varying factors to determine reliability (both the owner surveys and the FIXD app data). These ratings are then graphed and placed in the chart above, so you can compare the various Town & Country models. Above, you’ll see these values:

  1. The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – this data is sourced from the check engine lights set by Chrysler Town & Country minivans over 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving). 
  2. The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) – we pulled these from the survey answers from Chrysler Town & Country owners. 

 

To rank reliability, a 1 to 10 scale is used on all Chrysler Town & Country models. A score of 10 is the best rating, while 1 would be the worst rating. Therefore, a 5 shows an average ranking. 

The minivans tend to become more reliable as they get newer, but some model years are an exception to this rule. Additionally, the ranking for the 2001 and 2003 Chrysler Town & Country was removed from our in-depth analysis because there weren’t enough respondents to get an accurate score. With a few more answers, the rating could have been drastically different. 

We suggest combining the reliability data with the other information we lay out to determine which Town & Country model is the best in your price range. 

It’s also helpful to examine the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Chrysler Town & Country minivans before picking a model to purchase. 

NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years

Chrysler Town & Country NHTSA Safety Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a government agency that determines average safety scores on the majority of passenger vehicles. These safety scores help determine which vehicles are good for families and which models should be avoided.

We took the average scores and placed them in the graph above, with the green line showing the average safety scores on Chrysler Town & Country minivans. The gray line reveals the average score for all of the vehicles we have information for. 

As you can see, all of the models except the 2015 and 2016 Chrysler Town & Country sit either on or above the average rating. Yet, even these two model years don’t fall very short, so these minivans would still be considered a good choice. 

If you want to score cheap car insurance for your used minivan, you have to choose a model that gets decent safety scores. 

If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours. 

What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In:
Ohio
North Carolina
Michigan
Georgia
Texas
New York
Illinois
Pennsylvania
California

MPG – Over The Years

Chrysler Town & Country Average MPG

The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan that holds a lot of people. Therefore, the manufacturer couldn’t aim to make it as efficient as a compact car. Yet, you can still save a little money simply by choosing a model with better fuel economy ratings. 

The graph above shows you the average Chrysler Town & Country fuel economy ranking by model year based on the information found at fueleconomy.gov. The light green line charts the gas-powered models with an average of the trims. The darker green line reveals E85 Town & Country models when available. Based on this data, you’ll get the best fuel economy scores from the 2011-2016 gas-powered minivans.

Current Market Value of All Chrysler Town & Country Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each

Chrysler Town & Country Market Value vs Cost of Repairs

Most Chrysler Town & Country minivans can now be purchased for less than $10,000, making it a real bargain. Yet, this cost depends solely on the model year, trim level, features, and mileage. All of these can have a dramatic impact on the resale value.

Reliability is also critical to consider. If the minivan suffers from massive mechanical problems, it’s not going to sell for as much as one that’s been well-maintained and cared for. Additionally, while you can save money on a cheap Town & Country, one major repair could send the minivan to the salvage yard. 

If you are torn between two Town & Country models, consider opting for the newer one if it’s considered reliable. It may come with better features and it could give you more miles. However, you should always run a KBB resale value report before making a decision. 

When shopping for a used Chrysler Town & Country, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!

Important Features Timeline

Chrysler Town & Country Timeline of Important Features

1996: Start of 3rd generation, completely redesigned with driver-side passenger door and dual-zone temperature controls

1997: Newly added AWD extended wheelbase models, SX trim replaces the LX model

1998: Updated signature grille, more powerful 3.8L V6 engine added

1999: Limited becomes top trim level, newly available rear center armrest and steering wheel-mounted stereo controls

2000: LX and LXi receive substantial upgrades, making it easier to tell the two models apart

2001: Start of 4th generation with a new power liftgate and removable center console that houses three power outlets

2002: Newly available power-adjustable pedals, a rear-seat audio system or rear-seat DVD with wireless headsets, eL model launches as the base value option

2003: Newly available one-touch power sunroof, which is the largest available in its class, LX AWD model discontinued, new six-CD changer released

2004: Limited-edition Platinum Series released with 16” chrome wheels, a rear-seat entertainment system, two-tone leather seats, and embroidered floor mats, newly standard tire-pressure monitoring system included on all trims, a short-wheelbase model added to the lineup

2005: Revised styling, newly released Stow ‘n Go fold-flat second-and third-row seats

2006: Recently strengthened roof and side structure, along with updated side curtain airbags 

2007: Remains mostly unchanged as the last model in the generation

2008: Start of 5th generation includes a new 4.0L V6 and Swivel ‘n Go seats

2009: LX trims include standard three-zone air conditioning, third-row power vent windows, and second-row power windows 

2010: New Touring Plus trim added, active front-seat headrests become standard halfway through the production year

2011: New 3.6L V6 and retuned suspension added, Swivel ‘n Go seating option removed

2012: Newly standard rear-seat entertainment system and leather seating

2013: Upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with a higher-resolution screen, premium system includes an HDMI input and Blu-ray player, newly available rear-seat USB ports and trailer sway control, S model added to the lineup

2014: Remains mainly unchanged

2015: LX trim released as the new entry-level model, Limited trim splits into Limited and Limited Premium creating a minor reshuffling of features

2016: Newly released Anniversary Edition package for the mid-tier Touring-L trim

The Best Years of the Chrysler Town & Country

Close up Photo Chrysler logo emblem
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By looking closely at all of the data, including the Owner Satisfaction Scores and FIXD Reliability Ratings, we were able to determine the best Town & Country models for your family. This information was further backed up with the cost of ownership, safety ratings, fuel economy rankings, and trouble code data. Plus, there’s also a part that reveals any recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), so you know which Chrysler minivan model to buy.

In our Best & Worst Chrysler Town & Country list, we’ve excluded the 2001 and 2003 models because we received a lack of user responses. With even a couple more respondents, the ratings could have dramatically changed. If you are looking to purchase one of these models, we suggest grouping it together with the others in the 4th generation for a better picture, although these two models were early on, so there could be additional problems.   

2016 Chrysler Town & Country parked at an empty park
This AI-generated image may not accurately represent all aspects of the intended subjects whether a person or object.

 

FIXD Reliability Score: 9/10

Owner Reliability Score: 10/10

KBB Value: $9,491

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg (gas), 14 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $817

Safety Rating: 4.4/5

This is the newest Town & Country minivan available to buy, and it was the last ever produced. With its high-reliability rankings, it would likely be the best option out there. 

The Owner Reliability score of the 2016 Chrysler Town & Country is a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2016 Town & Country earns 9 out of 10, which is still insanely impressive.

The 2016 Chrysler Town & Country has a crash test rating of 4.4 (out of 5). While that is a high score, it does fall slightly short of the average across the board. 

For this model year, you can choose the gas-powered or E85 flex-fuel Town & Country. The gas model gets a higher mpg rating at 20 on average versus the E85 at 14 mpg. 

The average cost of ownership isn’t terrible either, at $817 a year. Considering this minivan is seven years old, it’s expected that the maintenance and repair bills will jump up slightly. Because the Chrysler powertrain warranty only lasted 5 years or 60,000 miles, there aren’t any minivans still covered. The good news is that there’s only a minimal chance of any expensive engine or transmission repairs. 

The biggest issue with this Town & Country is the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. If you must replace the engine coolant thermostat, expect to spend between $477 and $512. It can also suffer from the System Voltage Below Or Above Threshold (C212A) warning. This problem could be something as simple as a dead battery, so it’s probably not a big deal. However, these models also show a higher chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If you need to replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. 

The 2016 Chrysler Town & Country has five open recalls and one investigation. 

2009 Chrysler Town & Country focused against a while background
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FIXD Reliability Score: 2-6/10

Owner Reliability Score: 8/10

KBB Value: $4,735-$5,307

Fuel Economy: 19-20 mpg (gas), 13-14 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$902

Safety Rating: 4.0-4.8/5

These three Town & Country models are worth a second look because of the minimal chance of repairs and cost-effective sales prices.

The Owner Reliability score of all three Chrysler Town & Country models is 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2009 Town & Country dips down to 2 out of 10, the 2010 model earns 6 out of 10 and the 2011 minivan is rated at 5 out of 10. It’s likely that with a little more data, the 2009 model would have competed on the same level as the other two minivans since they are all part of the same generation.

The 2009 and 2010 Chrysler Town & Country models have a near-perfect crash test rating of 4.8 (out of 5). The 2011 minivan is slightly less impressive at 4.0 (out of 5). 

These three model years offer a gas or E85 flex-fuel option. The 2009 and 2010 Town & Country earns 19 mpg (gas) or 13 mpg (E85), while the 2011 minivan gets 1 mpg more in both configurations. 

The average cost of ownership remains about average. The 2009 minivan has the lowest cost of the three at $500 a year, on average. From there, the 2011 model is rated at $771, and the 2010 Town & Country averages $902. Either way, neither of these models shows an increased chance of major mechanical issues.

The biggest problem with the 2009 and 2010 Chrysler minivans is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If you need to replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. However, the resale value indicates that these models would probably be worth the repair. The 2009 and 2011 Town & Country also show a higher chance of the Evaporative Emission System Leak Small (P0456) DTC. We show the most common repair for this error as an Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, costing $200 to $560. On the other hand, when this problem occurs on the 2009 model, it’s often only in need of a new fuel filler cap. When the Evaporative Emission Control System Pressure Sensor Low Input (P0452) code comes up on the 2009 Chrysler, it’s also normally the Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly that’s causing trouble. Another big problem with the 2010 Town & Country is the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Flow Insufficient Detected (P0401) DTC, which may require a new Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, costing $151 to $389.

The 2009 Chrysler Town & Country has six open recalls and two investigations, while the 2010 Chrysler Town & Country does slightly better with five open recalls and two investigations. Yet, the 2011 Chrysler Town & Country only shows two recalls and one NHTSA investigation. 

2013 Chrysler Town and Country at the city street in motion
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FIXD Reliability Score: 7-9/10

Owner Reliability Score: 8/10

KBB Value: $6,517-$7,108

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg (gas), 14 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $566-$857

Safety Rating: 4.4/5

With these two Town & Country vans, you can count on retained high ownership scores, as well as a reasonable cost of repairs and maintenance. 

The Owner Reliability score of both Chrysler Town & Country models is 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2013 Town & Country earns a rating of 7 out of 10, while the 2014 model shows 9 out of 10, which is near perfect.  

The 2013 and 2014 Chrysler Town & Country models also boast a crash-test rating of 4.4 (out of 5). While this isn’t as high as some models, it’s still above average and perfect for ensuring your family remains safe.  

These two model years offer a gas or E85 flex-fuel option. Gas-powered models have an average of 20 mpg, while the E85 rating dips to 14 mpg.  

We are most impressed with the cost of annual maintenance and repair. As expected, the 2014 minivan has a lower average of $566, but the 2013 Town & Country isn’t doing bad either at $857 a year. Sadly, these vans start to run into trouble with a slightly elevated chance of expensive repairs. The biggest worry is the 2013 model struggles with some engine and transmission repairs. 

With either minivan, you may face the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. If you must replace the engine coolant thermostat, expect to spend between $477 and $512. There’s also a chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If you need to replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. Additionally, the 2013 model can deal with the Evaporative Emission System Leak Small (P0456) DTC, in need of an Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, costing $200 to $560. Or, the 2014 minivan occasionally struggles with the System Voltage Below Or Above Threshold (C212A) warning.

The 2013 Chrysler Town & Country shows three recalls and one investigation. Similarly, the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country is listed with three recalls and two investigations. 

2005 Chrysler Town & Country parked at the side of the road
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FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10

Owner Reliability Score: 7/10

KBB Value: $2,206

Fuel Economy: 18 mpg (gas), 13 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $519

Safety Rating: 4.4/5

The 2005 Chrysler Town & Country may be an older model, but it still appears to be one of the more reliable options.

The Owner Reliability of the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country is 7 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2005 Town & Country earns a rating of 5 out of 10, which is about average.

The 2005 Chrysler Town & Country models also feature a crash-test rating of 4.4 (out of 5). As an older model, this is a good crash test rating, so you won’t worry about carting around kids. 

This minivan also offers a gas or E85 flex-fuel option. Gas-powered models have an average of 18 mpg, while the E85 rating drops slightly to 13 mpg.  

We also love the annual maintenance and repair average at just $519 a year. While there’s minimal chance of expensive repairs, we had to place this model a little lower on the list because the lower resale value keeps you from getting your money’s worth if it needs any costly repairs.

Most commonly, the 2005 Chrysler Town & Country deals with the Transmission Control System Malfunction (P0700) code. The second most common code is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If you need to replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. Finally, there’s also a chance for the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/Performance (P0404) DTC. To replace the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, you could spend $151 to $389. 

The 2005 Chrysler Town & Country shows seven recalls and seven investigations. 

Chrysler car sign logo vehicle. White
Lucky Photographer – stock.adobe.com

 

FIXD Reliability Score: 4/10

Owner Reliability Score: 5/10

KBB Value: $1,608

Fuel Economy: 19 mpg (gas), 13 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250

Safety Rating: 4.2/5

The 2002 Chrysler Town & Country may be the best option if you need a budget-friendly minivan, but there won’t be a lot of wiggle room for repairs. 

The Owner Reliability of the 2002 Chrysler Town & Country is 5 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2002 Town & Country earns a rating of 4 out of 10, so both of these scores remain about average, which is impressive considering the minivan is two decades old.

The 2002 Chrysler Town & Country models also feature a crash-test rating of 4.2 (out of 5). We are fairly pleased with this score as an older model. It’s clear that the Town & Country was ahead of its time. 

This minivan also offers a gas or E85 flex-fuel option. Gas-powered models have an average of 19 mpg, while the E85 rating is only slightly lower at 13 mpg.  

It’s hard to complain about the cost of ownership, averaging $250 a year. Yet, the risk for expensive transmission or brake repairs does go up a little, putting this minivan just one repair from the salvage yard.

Most commonly, the 2002 Town & Country suffers from the System Gross Leak Evaporative System Malfunction (P0455) code. This could go hand-in-hand with the second most common, the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Medium (P0442) DTC. Finally, the 2002 Chrysler Town & Country deals with the Transmission Control System Malfunction (P0700) code, which could be something as simple as a new alternator, costing $501 to $912.

The 2002 Chrysler Town & Country shows eight recalls and six investigations.

The Worst Years of the Chrysler Town & Country

Emblem at the full-size car Chrysler Town & Country
Sergey Kohl – stock.adobe.com

 

We used the same information to pick the worst Chrysler Town & Country models as we did for the best model years. These minivans feature lower reliability scores and often cost more to maintain or repair. We start with the worst possible model and work our way up to some you may be okay choosing if you don’t have any others available.

2004 Grey Minivan Chrysler Town & Country at a city street
art_zzz – stock.adobe.com

 

FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10

Owner Reliability Score: 5/10

KBB Value: $2,004

Fuel Economy: 19 mpg (gas)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,375

Safety Rating: 4.5/5

The 2004 Chrysler Town & Country suffers from numerous expensive repairs and isn’t normally worth fixing, therefore it’s not a good buy. 

The Owner Reliability of the 2004 Chrysler Town & Country is 5 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2004 Town & Country earns a rating of 5 out of 10. While these average scores may lead you into a false sense of security, it’s important to keep reading. 

The 2004 Chrysler Town & Country models also feature a crash-test rating of 4.5 (out of 5). This is a good safety score for this model year. 

This minivan only offers a gas powertrain. Gas-powered models have an average of 19 mpg.  

The problem comes in when we talk about maintenance and repairs. At an average of $1,375 a year, this is the highest-cost Chrysler minivan model to own. Plus, it shows a higher chance of dealing with costly engine, transmission, brake, AC/heat, and fuel system repairs. One major repair, and you’ve lost any money you paid for this minivan. 

Most commonly, the 2004 Town & Country suffers from Transmission Control System Malfunction (P0700) code, which could be something as simple as a new alternator, costing $501 to $912. It also shows an increased chance of dealing with the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High – Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0032) code. This could be a cheap repair if it only needs a heated oxygen sensor costing $153 to $306. However, it also shows an increased likelihood of the Evaporative Emission System Leak Small (P0456) DTC.

There are also six recalls and one investigation with the 2004 Chrysler Town & Country.

2008 Chrysler Town & Country headlight focus in motion at a city street
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FIXD Reliability Score: 4-6/10

Owner Reliability Score: 6-8/10

KBB Value: $2,521-$3,301

Fuel Economy: 18-19 mpg (gas)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $614-$804

Safety Rating: 4.8/5

The 2006 to 2008 Chrysler Town & Country models only get average reliability scores but they show expensive repairs may be on the horizon. 

The Owner Reliability of the 2006 Chrysler Town & Country is 7 out of 10, the 2007 model earns 8 out of 10, and the 2008 minivan earns the lowest score of 6 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2006 Town & Country earns a rating of 4 out of 10, but the other two models have a 6 out of 10. 

The 2006-2008 Chrysler Town & Country models also feature a crash-test rating of 4.8 (out of 5). This is an impressive score for this model year. 

This minivan only comes as a gas-powered model. The 2006 and 2007 minivans are rated for 19 mpg, while the 2008 model earns an average of 18 mpg.  

At first glance, the average cost may not seem daunting. The 2007 Town & Country averages $617 a year, and the 2006 minivan is rated at $625. Even the 2008 model, which is the highest of the three, only comes in at $804. Yet, these models show a higher chance of expensive engine repairs. Plus, the 2006 and 2008 models may also deal with costly brake and AC/heat issues. 

All three models tend to suffer from the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If you need to replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. There’s also an increased chance of the Evaporative Emission System Leak Small (P0456) DTC. A new fuel filler cap may only cost $58 to $165 to replace professionally (although you can do it yourself for much cheaper), or you could spend $200 to $560 on a new leak detection pump (LDP). The Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak (P0457) code also shows up on the 2007 and 2008 models, further indicating the need for this pump. The 2006 minivan could also show the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/Performance (P0404) DTC. To replace the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, you could spend $151 to $389.

The 2006 Chrysler Town & Country deals with four recalls and five investigations, while the 2007 Chrysler Town & Country only shows two recalls and one investigation. Sadly, the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country jumps back up to seven recalls and two investigations. 

2012 Chrysler Town & Country at a parking lot
This AI-generated image may not accurately represent all aspects of the intended subjects whether a person or object.

 

FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10

Owner Reliability Score: 8/10

KBB Value: $5,905

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg (gas), 14 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,018

Safety Rating: 4.4/5

The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country model may have decent reliability scores, but it could easily cost you more money to maintain and repair. 

The Owner Reliability of the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is 8 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score of the 2012 Town & Country is 6 out of 10. 

The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country still maintains a good crash test rating. It earns 4.4 (out of 5).  

This minivan offers two powertrain options. The gas-powered 2012 Chrysler Town & Country earns 20 mpg, while the E85 model earns an average of 14 mpg.  

The trouble with this model is the cost of ownership, skyrocketing to $1,018. Sure, the minivan is worth a decent amount, but who wants to spend so much for repairs? Plus, there’s an increased chance of transmission and AC/heat problems. 

The most common problem with the 2012 minivan is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. To replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. You could also deal with the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. If you must replace the engine coolant thermostat, expect to spend between $477 and $512. Finally, there’s a larger risk for the Evaporative Emission System Leak Small (P0456) DTC. If the van requires a new Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, you may spend between $200 and $560. 

The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country has four recalls and one NHTSA investigation. 

2015 Chrysler Town & Country against a white background
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FIXD Reliability Score: 9/10

Owner Reliability Score: 9/10

KBB Value: $7,328

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg (gas), 14 mpg (E85)

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $923

Safety Rating: 4.4/5

The 2015 Chrysler Town & Country looks like a decent model, but it may cost you more than you bargained for. 

The Owner Reliability of the 2015 Chrysler Town & Country is 9 out of 10. Likewise, the FIXD Reliability score of the 2015 Town & Country is 9 out of 10. 

The 2015 Chrysler Town & Country has a crash test rating of 4.4 (out of 5). This is below average compared with other models we have information for.

This minivan also offers two powertrain options. The gas-powered 2015 Chrysler Town & Country earns 20 mpg, while the E85 model earns an average of 14 mpg.  

At an average of $923 a year for repairs and maintenance, you would think this is a much older minivan. Additionally, there’s a likelihood of expensive engine and AC/heat problems.

Most commonly, the 2015 Chrysler Town & Country struggles with the  Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. If you must replace the engine coolant thermostat, expect to spend between $477 and $512. You could also deal with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. To replace the catalytic converter, you could spend $1,538 to $2,041. Finally, consider the possibility of the System Voltage Below Or Above Threshold (C212A) warning.

The 2015 Chrysler Town & Country shows three recalls. 

FAQs

According to our data, the 2003-2004, 2006-2008, 2013, and 2015 Chrysler Town & Country models deal with more expensive engine repairs. There’s also a higher instance of transmission repairs with the 2002, 2004, and 2012-2013 minivans. 

The Chrysler Town & Country is a family-focused minivan that can see many miles while carpooling or going on vacation. Yet, it’s difficult to figure out how long it will last without knowing how well it was maintained and cared for. If it received regular service, a Chrysler Town & Country could see 200,000 miles or more on the odometer.

Based on our data, a high-mileage Chrysler Town & Country could be considered anything over 175,000 miles.

The 2001 Chrysler Town & Country has the highest mileage in our surveys at 275,000 miles, but most minivans aren’t going to last that long. If you choose to buy a high-mileage Chrysler minivan, expect that the resale value plummets accordingly.

 

Chrysler no longer makes the Town & Country, but you could choose the Pacifica minivans. There’s also the Dodge Grand Caravan, which is part of the same family. You could also choose a Dodge SUV with plenty of seating, such as the Dodge Durango or Dodge Journey. 

If you are willing to evaluate other minivan brands, look at the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Kia Carnival, Chevrolet Uplander, Nissan Quest, or the Mazda MPV.

What owners of the Chrysler Town & Country like to use their car for:

Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5

Frequent Use Categories: How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars)
Family Vehicle ***
Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) **
Hauling/Towing *
Office on Wheels *
Sport/Fast Driving *
Luxurious Driving *
Outdoor/Off-Road *

A Note About Data and Information Sources

This article has many details about Chrysler Town & Country’s reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.

  • FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App

The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing. 

This is an objective score.

  • Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Chrysler Town & Country owners who use FIXD. 

The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Chrysler Town & Country.  

This is a subjective score.

To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:

How reliable would you say your Chrysler Town & Country is?

a. Just point A to point B driving

b. A Daily Commuter

c. Good for a 100-mile road trip

d. Good for a 500-mile road trip

e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem

From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:

a. = 2

b. = 4

c. = 6

d. = 8

e. = 10

Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is. 

One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.

Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.

Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others. 

It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars. 

Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data. 

We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.

  • KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Chrysler Town & Country with typical mileage for that respective model year.
  • Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
  • Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Chrysler Town & Country owners
  • Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.

References

  1. Chrysler Town & Country, wikipedia.org. Retrieved August 10, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysler_Town_%26_Country_(minivan)
  2. Chrysler Town & Country reviews, edmunds.com. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/chrysler/town-and-country/2016/review/
  3. Chrysler brand coverage warranty, Chrysler.com. Retrieved August 14, 2023, from https://www.chrysler.com/warranty.html
Brian Jones Profile Picture

Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.

We’re here to help you simplify car care and save, so this post may contain affiliate links to help you do just that. If you click on a link and take action, we may earn a commission. However, the analysis and opinions expressed are our own.

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About the Author

Brian Jones

Brian Jones

Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he's not working, he's tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.

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