1994 Chrysler LeBaron problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 133 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 19.0 times the median LeBaron year — the 1994 model ranks #1 of 23 LeBaron years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across body & structure (31), engine (24), and transmission (24), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
133
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
1
Investigations
6
Crash-involved
5
Fires reported
9
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 1994 compare to other LeBaron years?
What are the most common 1994 Chrysler LeBaron problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body & Structure | 31 | 23% | ▲ up |
| Transmission | 24 | 18% | — flat |
| Engine | 24 | 18% | ▲ up |
| Suspension | 7 | 5% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 6 | 5% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 6 | 5% | — flat |
| Visibility & Wipers | 6 | 5% | ▲ up |
| Seat Belts | 5 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Latches & Locks | 4 | 3% | ▲ up |
| Electrical System | 4 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Airbags | 3 | 2% | — flat |
| Fuel System | 3 | 2% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 2 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Seats | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Speed Control | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Lighting | 2 | 2% | — flat |
| Climate Control (A/C & Heat) | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Other | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“ALREADY REPORTED 10/98- DRIVER'S DOOR HINGE BROKE OFF DOOR. NOW 1/99 - PASSENGER'S DOOR HINGE BROKE OFF DOOR. CHRYSLER DID NOT SUPPORT THE FIRST OCCURRENCE. STATED NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. I DO NOT AGREE THAT BOTH DOOR HINGES SHOULD NEED TO BE REPAIRED AFTER 60,000 MILES AT THE COST OF THE OWNER.…”
“PURCHASED THE CAR WITH 75,000 MILES ON IT. THOUGHT IT MIGHT LAST A LITTLE WHILE. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BATTERY, ALTERNATOR, FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS, TRANSMISSION LEAK, AND NOW THE TRANSMISSION DOESN'T WORK! GRINDS WHEN I PUT IT INTO REVERSE, AND ALL THE OTHER GEARS NOTHING HAPPENS. I ALSO JUST PUT…”
“VEHICLE LOST POWER WHILE DRIVING/ ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT ON FIRE.*MR VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS.*PH WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER. THE DRIVER PULLED TO THE SOUTH SHOULDER AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER NOTICED FLAMED COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. *NM”
“FRONT END VIBRATES WHILE DRIVING; LOUD CRUNCHING SOUND WHILE MAKING RIGHT TURNS; TIRES REPLACED; PROBLEM STILL EXIST. TT”
“WHILE DRIVING STEERING BELT TENSIONER WENT BAD, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING. THE DEALER HAS REPAIRED THE VEHICLE . THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK”
1994 Chrysler LeBaron — common questions
Is the 1994 Chrysler LeBaron reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 133 complaints put the 1994 model at #1 of 23 LeBaron years. It is one of the LeBaron years to avoid.
What are the most common 1994 LeBaron problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are body & structure (31 complaints), engine (24 complaints), transmission (24 complaints).
Does the 1994 Chrysler LeBaron have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 1994 Chrysler LeBaron.
Is the 1994 Chrysler LeBaron under NHTSA investigation?
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Which Chrysler LeBaron years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the LeBaron years to avoid are 1994, 1992, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1993, 1989, 1987, 1988, 1986. The cleanest record among LeBaron years belongs to 1981.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.