1994 Chrysler LHS from North America

Summary:

Beautiful cars, but completely inadequate transmissions

Faults:

Let me preface my remarks by saying that I am a Chrysler fanatic, all 3 of my vehicles are Chrysler/Dodge products however, I must admit some disappointment with the 94 LHS which I bought as an extra car.

The transmission in the LHS is its weakest point. You will end up replacing it, the only question is when. First problems appeared in the low 40K mile range and now at 58K miles, it is time to replace it.

Have not seen it in any other reviews, but the electronic brain on the ABS system on mine is fried. ABS and Traction lights blink and flicker at random and the pedal travel has been too great since this began at around 45K miles.

The washer fluid low light stays on in mine no matter whether the tank is filled or not... I saw another post indicating this problem also.

General Comments:

While the 94 - 97 body style LHS is the most aesthetically pleasing car I have seen made in the last 10 years, you better really love the looks of it to keep up with the repair bills. If you buy one, figure in a new transmission in your purchase price.

It does handle very nicely for a "large" car.

I am disappointed in the overall amount of road noise present compared to other "high end" American cars.

I drive mine hard (75 - 85 mph with many stops and starts) 32 miles each way each day and it does great in spite of this abuse, the engine is a total champ. If the transmissions were better, I would drive an LHS forever!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd July, 2002

13th Dec 2002, 21:37

I have a '94 LHS with 128000 miles. While I have not had any major problems its the little things that drive me crazy.

1. the washer fluid light is on all the time

2. the radio works, but there are no numbers and you have to guess what station you are on.

3. the antenna does not go down.

4 when I use the ice cold air-conditioner the back rug gets a inch of water on it.

Other than that, it is a great car.

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1994 Chrysler LHS from North America

Summary:

Nice looking car, but too many troubles

Faults:

The transmission is completly no good, the car slams into gear the automatic transmission kicks in and won't alow you to go into a higher gear.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 19th July, 2002

30th Oct 2002, 14:55

Sounds like the now famous death knell of a Chrysler computer-controlled POS transaxle. In its last stage of decay, the computer slams the transmission into 2nd gear and locks it there until you shut down the motor and start up again. When this happens, you don't need to consult a dealer mechanic about the diagnosis. YOUR TRANSMISSION IS SHREDDED.

7th Apr 2004, 20:33

I have just received a 1997 Chrysler LHS and the transmission is not shifting. It runs at a high RPM. At low speeds there does not appear to be any issues. Higher speeds, one can hear the tranny whining. Is this the same problem? Probably. The car is absolutely beautiful and engine is strong, so I will invest in the repair.

4th Mar 2005, 18:59

Not worth fixing. Just sell it!

2nd Dec 2005, 23:53

The whining problem is usually simply a very dirty transmission filter. When the transmission pump does not get enough fluid, it makes a distinctive whining sound. Flush the transmission fluid and change the filter. When the pump gets fluid, the whining will stop. I just had this same issue on my 1996 LHS, and problem solved!

In reply to 7th Apr 2004, 20:33

29th Apr 2013, 16:34

Have the transmission fluid and filter changed every 30k miles. Also check the TPS; this affects the RPM, and look for leaks in hoses. The TPS is a 37-50 dollar part that is very easy to replace. It is a simple fix that is apparently commonly overlooked (throttle positioning sensor). I am no mechanic, and a mechanic told me that I could change the part myself and save 60-80 dollars, knowing that I do not work on cars! He showed me the part, told me to order it at a parts store, and do it!

I love the ride!! (97 Chrysler LHS)