Used 2008 Chrysler Town and Country Consumer Reviews
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STOP!
The Town and Country seems to get worse with every model year. I've had a Plymouth Voyager back in '89, then again in '92, switched to the Grand Caravan in 98 and the T&C in 05, now I 've got an '08. The name goes on but the quality never goes in, electrical problems just like in the '05 model, although I was assured they were all worked out. Yes, I'm covered under the warranty, except all the inconveniences and time from work I'm losing, this one is going back, I lose about 10K but I think with all the problems I've had Chrysler has another LEMON on its hands...
Love It All
We love everything about our T&C. First minivan and wonder why we didn't get one before.
- Touring Passenger MinivanMSRP: $3,2986 mi away
- Limited Passenger MinivanMSRP: $5,4956 mi away
- Limited Passenger MinivanMSRP: $14,90053 mi away
town and country review
Brakes and tires need replaced at 24000 miles. There is a constant rattle in the overhead entertainment system that the dealership cannot keep fixed. Fuel economy is not great. Advertises 24 but with my family of six we have never gotten to 24, usually more like 22 on the hwy with a combined average of 18.
Nice van, some issues
Ok, after looking at Honda and Toyota, we selected this one because of the features. Satellite TV, Dual DVDs, great Nav, etc. Neither Honda or Toyota could touch it. We took it down to Walt Disney World on its first trip and everyone enjoyed it. It was on the return that the "nightmare" started. This van has some electrical issues that are MAJOR safety issues. After 10 days, it is in the shop now awaiting replacement of some modules that control almost every electrical accessory in the van. Not sure if it is all of them or just some, but it does seem common. Other than this, we absolutely love it.
Great minivan/great value-4.0/tow group/
On a trip of about 160 miles of mostly highway driving at 65 mph, the computer reported 24.4 mpg with the 4.0 engine. The ride is quiet, seats are comfortable,and acceleration is impressive for the vehicle's size. Resetting the mpg meter to see what the vehicle will get around town, it appears to be between 17-18mpg. Now I only have about 1500 miles on the van, so I don't have a lot of data. The amount of electronic/electronic stuff is scary but if the vehicle is as reliable as my other 2 Chrysler vehicles ('01 300M & 96 Caravan) I'll be very happy. I'm not a dedicated Chrysler fan but I've picked them for their price/features/ and looks. But I still like the rounded looks of the 96 better.
My Wife Loves It
The Chrysler T & C is a great family vehicle. All that you want or need in a family minivan is here and then some.
Excellent Van
I have owned 5 new mini-vans since 1986, and this is be far the best one I've owned. We like all the extra features and have had not trouble of any kind since I purchased it. This is much improved from the 2005 model I owned. The 2005 model was the worst one I've owned. I would like a little better mileage, but it's not bad for a heavy van. I think a lot of people complain about their vans, but they probably complain about most everything they have. I also question how they drive and service them. I have driven over 1,500,000 miles in 17 new GM, Ford and Chrysler products, and never had much trouble with any of them. Don't drive them like a race car and service them properly.
Not ever again me and chrysler
Chrysler would not even call me. I had to threaten with a law suit or go to arbitration. Finally they called. My van from day 1 has a terrible air leak that comes through the dash I think that is so loud you cannot even hear the radio or talk on a cell phone. Sounds like a train whistle. The transmission is a joke. Gas mileage 20 on the highway with the Cruise on. So in ending if you have to have a van you better go to Honda or Toyota. I have owned 2 1995 Dodge vans and a 2005 and 2002 and this 2008 lemon. Hey Chrysler stick a fork in me I am done with your vehicles and no help at all from you. Y'all just do not care. Thats why your sales are slipping every month. Hope this is helpful .
First timer and liking it
This was the first minivan we've ever own and we really like it. We test drove several minis and we felt that the TnC Signature series has the complete package (fun factor plus the lifetime bumper to bumper warranty). We took the minivan on a trip the same week we bought it and the whole family enjoyed the drive all way down to the OBX. Kids enjoyed the dual screen (one was watching DVD while the other was watching TV). Our avg MPG for the trip was 25/gal (~1000 miles). The van now has 1350 miles and still driving smooth. The power doors and liftgate was awesome!
Great Improvement from the early `90's
Runs great, has really amazing pickup and go, I really like the improvement in the tranny's more than anything because our `98 Grandcaravan that we traded in, it's tranny was garbage even though it was a 4-speed but the new 6-speed is awesome. Overall, I completely satisfied with this van.
Buyer Beware Brake Life
We purchased a certified used 2008 T&C LX with 3000 miles in January. New brakes and rotors required at 17K miles. Based on other online reviews and some quick math, it became apparent we would have to pay for a complete brake replacement every 15K miles or so. Wear items are not covered under warranty so we were looking at a $800 hit every year. I can understand a brake replacement at 30-40K but not annually. Clearly there is a design problem with the 2008s. After much back and forth with the dealer and Chrysler corporate, we agreed to a $250 deductible. Once fixed, we traded in vehicle. Sorry Chrysler!
No wonder they're bankrupt
We bought the van shortly after the arrival of our 2nd child. We figured we needed the room and went with the most popular model out there. One week after ownership, the tire monitor goes off and there's a leak in the rim. Dealer replaces the monitor. Week later, its back. Dealer fixes it. 2 months later, its back. Meanwhile, the side door has stopped closing all the way. Dealer takes 4 stabs at it before ordering all new mounting parts for the door. 15,000 miles into ownership and the brakes and rotors are so far gone that they are in need of $300 replacement. Dealer tells me its common for this van and I can expect that every $15,000 miles. Value dropped so now I cant sell it. Yay Chrysler
08 T&C Swivel & Go
We really enjoy the swivel & go. It allows you to bring a restaurant on the road. The vehicle is fun to drive. We didn't get electric doors due to price incentives. Wished that it came in a hybrid or diesel for better mileage. Really enjoy the instrumentation on the panel. Allows you monitor your driving and how it affects your mileage.
2008 Town & Country Minivan Stinks
What stinks? My new 2008 Chrysler Minivan. While driving home after purchase back hatchet came open without any warning. After driving turned engine off and key would not release. Back passenger doors do not close properly have to use handle most of the time. Brakes & rotor went out at 22,000 miles. Rotten egg smell. Air conditioning stopped working. Have taken to dealer over 10 times and they can not fix or duplicate any of the problems the first time. It takes them at least 4 times to get anything addressed. Dealership has been no help. And Chrysler has been even less. Way to go Chrysler. I will never buy another Chrysler product. Why can't you fix anything the 1st time? Chrysler stinks
Piece of junk
Traded a 2000 T&C for this piece of junk. Radio locked up on one channel, rear bumper cover bowed up, gear shift noisy and hanging up, tires noisy, and interior is so noisy you cannot hear radio. Cruise control is terrible. It goes from 1750 rpms to 2500 almost continuosly. Then the anti theft switch went bad while in drive way and had to have it towed. It took three weeks to get new switch. It has about 16000 miles and the tires are making loud noise and it appears also brakes may need work. No wonder they are going bankrupt. I made a mistake buying this instead of Honda or anything else.
Built Like A Tank..........Sort Of
I love this van but when I stomp on the gas the engine whines and then slowly boosts like a turbo. I've owned a 1998 Grand Caravan with 310,000 miles on it and I never had to service it. With this crap I'am taking it in weekly. I should have a reserved parking stall at the dealer when I take in for servicing. It's comfortable riding
Happy with Our Van
Bought our van in august 2008. It is our first van and we bought it because we wanted to do some traveling. We live in Pennsylvania and just did our second round trip to central Florida. Its been fun to drive, smooth & reliable. The only problem weve had is the air stopped blowing cold on the way down. Fortunately it was just a line leak and it was fixed at the dealership in Winter Haven, fla in one day and the air was icy once again. We are very glad we bought this type of van and the first 20,000 miles have been great. Only slight disappointment is the gas mileage is not as good as chrysler said-about 22 on the highway and only 10-11 in the city.
HORRIBLE
Like many other 2008 T&C owners, this was our third Chrysler minivan, and, like many other 2008 T&C owners, this will be our last! To be told by the dealer they know things are problems, such as premature brake wear, premature tire wear, and side doors that open and close on their own, and THEN to be told those items are not covered by Chrysler, and THEN to be told by CHRYSLER that those items are known issues, but again that they will not be covered, is just too much. This vehicle was very, very disappointing, and the service from both the dealership and the corporate offices was the worst I have ever received from anyone. Too bad, because the previous two vans were great. Never again.
Wow, now this is a minivan!
Ok, we never buy American cars and we never buy a car in its first year of production but we made an exception here and are very glad we did! The features, quality, and price of the Limited are amazing; you really get a lot more than Honda, Nissan or Toy. for a lot less. The 08 Honda is dated and will be redesigned in 09, the Nissan is likely to be discontinued in 09, and the Toy. is just to costly to be a contender. That left the T&C and we think it is a winner.
Great For My Three Sons
We purchased the 2008 T & C after talking ourselves out of the "Loser Cruiser" stigma. We have a2007 Durango, which is awesome, but not the family mover we needed. We traded my old sedan for the T & C and have not looked back. THe van is simply the most incredible, family oriented vehicle on the market. The DVD system is great for the boys (ages 4 and 2- year-old twins). After owning for a month we packed it up and headed ten hours south to Virginia Beach. Van performed great. We had it to the dealer once for a DVD door that was sticking when trying to close...Scranton Dodge swapped out the entire system and even changed the oil..on them! So far, van is exceeding our expectations.
Good Car for the Family...Impressed
I personally drive an Acura RDX, and love it. My wife decided to look into the minivan section. I first off said Honda Odyssey, but didn't turn down the chrysler. When I first saw it, I thought wow. This really looks nice. Almost like an SUV. It drives ok, though the steering can be stiff at times, and fun to drive. Numerous options. Love the dual DVD for the kids, TV really helps. Swivel 'n Go finally gets them playing the million games they never use. We've had it for 2 months and love it.
Happy T&C Ltd owner
After 12 month/12785 miles ownership, we are very happy with the 08 T&C Ltd. minivan. Highway mileage: 60 mph= 27- 38 mpg; 65-70 mph=23-24 mpg; local driving =14-16 mpg. Van has stow n'go seating, no tvs or navigation system. Bought a Garman Nuvi GPS instead which is very satisfactory. Warranty work so far: adjust the latches on two doors and address rattle in overhead console via Chrysler bulletin by torquing bolts that hold the console to the ceiling and taping a loose wiring harness behind the front light indside the overhead console. In summary, we're very happy with this van.
Great Van for the family
We just bought this van and all I have to saw is that we are surprised. This van substituted my wife's 2005 VW Passat Wagon (which we loved), but we needed more space for the kids. I must admit that I was concerned about buying american, but after seeing the price and the initial reviews we decided to give it a try. All I can say is, wow. I was impressed by the looks, quality and overall feel of the vehicel. It does not corner like a sporty sedan, but it is comfortable on the roads. The traction control and brake assist are Awsome. My wife has driven through a few rain storms and she reporetd that she felt the car's braking and handling in the rain we just like her old passat :).
Should have got the Honda
Bought this piece of American junk in 08. So far the doors have needed work, the heater/ac blower motor works intermittently, the dealer of course cant find a problem. Just got the front brakes done at 23,000 miles. My guess is the use of sub grade materials, poor acceleration on highway, brake calipers frozen on rear brakes and dealership tells me it could be a week before they come in. My hope is Chrysler disappears from the business. I will never buy another. Completely sickened by the company and their unwillingness to fix any problem unless it's out of the warranty period. Bunch of crooks...
I love it!!
I didn't want a mini van. I loved my Durango. We needed something newer that would fit the family more comfortable. After test driving the van I knew that we found something. They didn't have the color I wanted to the dealership found me what I wanted. I have been reading other reviews about things needing to be fixed and having a hard time getting them fixed. We had a problem with the windshield not being sealed all the way. We had no problem getting it fixed. Maybe people should be a little bit more understanding that it is the first year of a new model. There will always be problems that need to be fixed. If you treat the people with respect you will be treated better.
problems with no dealer answers
I bought this vehicle for my wife in May of 2008. Better gas mileage, haven't seen it yet. 3 months old and approx. 3,000 miles radio would lock up. Chrysler replaced radio. 1000 miles later radio did the same and transmission was leaking. Chrysler said that they could not replicate the radio and that they just tighten the trans. pan. They wanted it to happen and let them see the problem. They said then that the software may be bad then. But wanted to wait and see what happens. Now while driving at night, at 11800 miles, all electrical flashes off, including headlights. Scaried to drive it now. Won't buy this product again. Family vehicle or family death trap?
over drive down all hills
I love the van and it is a great fit for my family. It is the second Chrysler product for me in 20 years. The only issue I have is the van will not hold itself back going downhill regardless of selecting low gear at the top. The brakes will be gone in no time, we live at the top of a serious hill. I expected the 6 speed to handle this, very underwhelmed with this aspect.
Will buy another.
My 2008 with luxury option package was my 5th Chrysler product van. Other than a very minor rattle in one door, it was totally reliable for the two years that I owned it. A flood in Florida has unfortunatly caused the van to be a right off. The incredible versatility of this van is the reason I will definitly buy another. The 4 litre engine will provide ample power although the 3.8 served me well. Economy not bad for a vehicle of this size. Dealer service has been good in both Canada and Florida.
I never was a fan of American car, but..
I never though I would lease Chrysler but I leased two mini vans one in 2006 and another in 2008. 2008 van is so far the luxuriest with stow & go, leather, DVD etc. Odometer clocked 21500 miles, no trouble. One surprise for me is front brake pads worn out totally at 20000 miles. one recall for radiator fix. Other than that, I have very pleasant experience with this car. consistently good mileage on highway (26.5) and local around 18mpg. With AC, playstation 2, radio I think that is a good mileage.
Not big problems. At least by now.
We bought this van used about 4 months ago and we have not had big issues with it. The only one issue with it are the front breaks. It looks like it needs rotors and brakes replaced. I do not think is covered under the warranty so I am going to get that repleced by my self. It has 23000 miles only. I also had a brand new 2009 vw routan which is manufactured by Chrysler Canada for VW and it had the same brakes issue and I just had 3000 on it.
Beter MPG
We enjoy the new model, many great features with swivel seats and enjoy the high tech goodies. We have been unimpressed with the 9mpg city driving. Our 2003 got 16 mpg city.
A Convert
Having laughed at minivans for 20 years it was inevitable that I finally had to buy one now that the kids have arrived. Honda is the most fun to drive, Toyota the fastest and has AWD. But for utility and space the T&C is the best. And that's what minivans are for. We took it on a trip this week to Chicago with 2 adults and 4 kids. Lots of space and the satellite TV kept the kids happy. Power doors made entry and exit easy. Stow and Go is a marvel. It is so practical. My other car is a Porsche 911 and the wife a Mercedes GL. We love the van as much if not more than the Germans.
Why not fix the known problem?
This is our first minivan. Heard great things about this van and it was a great fit for the growing family. The breaks on this van has been a problem since around oil change number 3. We do not live in an area where hills would be a concern. This van has been in for break repairs and the service man has stated that they are a problem. That was comforting to hear. The heat that rises under the dash makes driving in the spring and summer uncomfortable as well. We want to support American made but this companies's van is not customer friendly.
Disappointed in the Chrysler! Not safe!
With the car less than two years old and only 14700 in miles, there was a pulsing in the brakes that resulted in having the front brakes replaced. At 16500 miles the back brakes need replacing and it needs two new front tires as well because the wheel alignment was to be checked during the 1st brake inspection-not done. All at our own expense! The dealership stated that the brakes may have been designed too small or incorrectly as to not handle the weight and size of the van and nothing to do with the warranty and the brakes are not covered.Chrysler has not shown any concern for safety of the van, nor a concern to get things fixed correctly. No concern in their own car! Disappointed!!
Disappointing Update
This is our second van. Leased a 2006 T&C as well. Besides the fact that I had to put brakes on the first one after 17,000 miles, I was pretty happy with it. I think the interior one the 2008 was meant to be world's ahead of the last model, but it is not. The materials are very cheap. Fit and finish is deplorable. I don't consider this a launch vehicle, as this has been in production since the summer of 2007, so that is not a valid excuse. Gas mileage is terrible. We are only averaging 1 or 2 mpg better than my gas-guzzling Durango.
Done with American
We bought the van due to transmission issues with our 1998 Tahoe with over 150000 miles, thinking we could avoid repairs for some time. What a joke. First it was DVD/NAV system problems, then the AC, NAV again, Front brakes at 23000 miles, Folding seats don't come up, Transmission Valve body- while driving to Soccer Toury- I coach need to be there on time- Stuck me in match box car for rental with three children, luggage, and equipment. This was Friday, did not get van back for 6 days and had to drive over 150 miles to pick up. Now at 35000 the rear brakes need to be replaced- thing is they don't have an after market brake YET it will cost $195 for this. It makes me sick- Never again!!!!!!!!
Really? A Cool Van?
When I walked into the dealership and saw comparably priced Jeeps and other SUVs, I felt as though I should hang my head in shame for considering a minivan at $40,000. As it turns out, this may be the greatest purchase yet! I think I just purchased a living room on wheels. We opted for the limited- which has tons of extras- and surprisingly, really wasn't that much more expensive. Before the trade, I got this vehicle for a hair under $37k, and I am pretty sure there aren't any options that didn't come on it. The real reason we went for the limited was the upgraded seats, which are extremely comfortable.
Lemon Law after 3 months
This piece of junk! Thank is all I can say. This was my first brand new vehicle. I was and am so disappointed in the van. Everything breaks on it! The life time transmission well thank god for life time you will need it! Ours has been in the shop 8 times for the transmission, 2 times for plastic snapping off of the seats, 4 times for the squeek in the front, 1 for engine light, oh! lets not forget if you happen to scrape the bottom in the front skirt there is a clip (plastic no less) that holds the front bumper to the side panels that will break. That will cost $500 and a body shop..2 times for the alarm not working. I hate this van!Save your money!
Great RES (Rolling Entertainment System)
This is our 2nd Chrysler product (1st was '02 Dodge Grand Caravan). The T&C has a very weak engine. Our old van was quicker with the same engine (3.8L). Our 2nd choice, the Odyssey, is much more impressive in the fun-to- drive factor as minivans go. The styling of the T&C is too blocky for my tastes. However, the T&C is all about what's on the inside. The dual DVDs, hard drive, and satellite radio made our 600+ mile trip to Myrtle Beach very pleasurable. The ride is very comfortable. The fit and finish is a little disappointing. The front door does not quite line up with the rear door, which is noticeable from the side mirror while driving. Overall a great value for the money.
Braking System Issues!!!!
I had to get four new brakes pads, two front rotars, and two rear calipers after only 17,000 miles. There is some severe braking issues that Chrysler needs to correct.
My 2008 Has Been Excellent
We have an early build 20087, and it has been great. The only issue we have had has been the premature brake wear (that I caught right before 12K miles so dealer covered the cost). The fuel economy of this van has been fantastic, we have taken several road trips with full cargo area, and nothing at all is creaking, making noise, or otherwise working poorly. It is super comfortable, and looks great in brilliant silver. This is my first T&C as I could not buy a Honda since my Accord has had 4, yes 4, transmissions and a front end repaint since being bought new in 2002.
Junk
Brakes and rotors replaced at 21,000 miles. Transmission rebuilt at 24,000. Will need tires soon. Would love to trade but resale value is terrible due to all the info on the street about all the problems.
Not sure I should have bought it...
Took delivery 11/08 and right off the bat the back up camera did not function. I felt the dealership was trying to deny anything was ever wrong, but sure enough Took on a trip to CA, rattling in the front, where the window and dash meet. Only happens when traveling over 60 miles an hour, but intermittently. Have had only one follow up phone call from the sales guy to see how things are going. Very disappointing to me. I had looked at the Toyota Sienna, but it was $5000 more in price with the same equipment. Should I have spent the extra for a better vehicle? Time will tell.
Don't buy this car
At 15,000 miles tires needed to be replaced no discount for poor quality tires. Brakes and rotors bad they were good enough to split the cost. Aren't brakes and tires supposed to last longer. Never have I had such bad luck with a car -electronics keep going bad. Locked out of car due to electrical problems. Tire pressure light kept indicating tires did not have pressure. The worst tires ever. Dealer not cooperative. This is the worst quality car for 40000 I have ever owned. Don't recommend to anyone.
Very satisfied!
This mini van is wonderful! We were deciding between the Honda and the T & C. I'm thrilled with our choice! While I think the Honda may drive better, the price for this can't be beat! Honda was almost $6,000 more expensive and we didn't get nearly as many "perks." The dual DVD, power doors (including the rear) and the space inside can't be beat. The Honda did not feel nearly as spacious and there weren't as many little places to put things. The inside of the car is very comfortable and easy to get around in. The back up camera is great. The option for the lifetime warranty is a good deal if you plan on keeping it for a long time. This is a great car at an amazing price, this is it!
Great Car but concerned about MPG
Returned 2005 Touring edition lease and got 2008 Touring Signature Series. Lease price less for much better vehicle - now have leather heated seats, rear back up camera, dual DVD system. remote start, navigation with Sirius Satellite for 1 year and many more great features. Only concern is the MPG. Last van did 16/17 mpg around town, now getting between 9 and 12 - HELP! Hope this improves. Went on 80 mile road trip to try to improve but the best was 14 mpg. Had slight problem with dual DVD but dealership is replacing. Overall love this vehicle, better bang for buck. Just hope MPG improve.
Great Family Hauler
We have the 2008 Signature Series and Love it!! Smooth Ride, Stow n Go, Dual DVD, Leather, Great Fuel Economy. What more could you want?
Brake/Rotor Overhaul at 26K!! HORRIBLE
First of all, I only leased my MV because my baby, my beautiful 204 baby blue Pacifica, was totaled in a front end collision. Everyone walked away from that with only minor aches and pains - a true testament to the early models of the Pacificas. We went to the same dealership that we bought the Pacifica, only to learn that the Pacificas were being discontinued. So we leased the T&C van instead. I have 26k miles and have to replace FOUR rotors and FOUR brakes, for over $700. On a leased car. Still under warranty. I thought the rotors were included between the bumpers, but apparently not in this universe. AVOID AT ALL COST.
Averaging 11 mpgs in this van
Within 2 years & less than 16,000 miles, i have had A/C problems 2x, sliding door issues, 3 tires w/leaks, battery needed to be replaced (i wound up paying a shop after a dealership said it would take them a week), glitches in entertainment system & braking! Chrysler fixed some (i still have A/C & and tire problems which i hope they will address) but gas mileage has also been horrific. Driving on highway I manage to get 16 & I am not a fast driver; I also do not idle the car, but barely get 11 driving locally. it is big and boxy, which some might like; we did good use of the DVDs after the repair software, but I still have to turn the engine off on sometimes to get it to work. 3rd is decent.
POOCH!!
I bought this mini van for my wife and 4 kids. It has the 3.3L V6 that is a TOTAL FRIGGEN DOG!!!! The real problem is the STUPID "fly by wire" throttle, if you mash the accelerator to the floor it only limps along and will NOT open up the throttle to 100%. I consider this a HUGE safety hazard. If you drive in heavy traffic you DO NOT WANT THE 3.3 L V6. It does not have the power to get out into traffic and up to speed in time to keep from getting run down by other traffic. Other than that, it's a mini van. I drove it from Illinois to Arizona, then up through Utah to Colorado and back to Illinois with the wife, 5 kids, and luggage on board. It was crammed but comfortable.