1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible
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1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible
- Price Range: $0 - $1,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Instruments/controls
- Antilock brakes
- Acceleration (V6 and turbo)
Cons
- Road noise (convertible)
- Engine noise (4-cylinder)
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Cargo room
- Rear-seat room
Vehicle Highlights
Back in 1987, Chrysler's LeBaron coupe and convertible changed radically--and the new shape was destined to stick around through 1995. By the '90s, LeBaron was the country's top-selling convertible. Only 4-cylinder engines were available in early seasons, both turbocharged and naturally aspirated. LeBarons added a Mitsubishi-built V6 option for 1990. A 4-speed automatic was offered, too. Coupes and convertibles came in Highline or Premium trim, along with sportier GT and GTC variants. Also for '90, the performance-oriented GTC gained an optional electronic variable-damped suspension, which allowed the driver to alter shock absorber damping. At the same time, variable-nozzle technology gave the GTC's 2.2-liter Turbo IV engine quicker response. Ever since 1989, LeBarons have had a standard driver-side airbag.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chrysler LeBaron GTC convertible Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible:
For 1991, the LeBaron GTC got the 3.0-liter V6, and a 152-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo became optional. The GT was dropped, but GTC specifications were similar. The former "performance" suspension was downgraded to "sport," and 4-wheel disc brakes became an option.
1992 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible:
Antilock braking became available for '92, including rear disc brakes instead of the usual drums. Convertibles also got standard rear shoulder belts.
1993 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible:
Facelifting for '93 included exposed headlamps and a new grille, plus combi nation red/amber taillamps. Turbo engines departed, leaving only the base 4-cylinder and the V6.
1994 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible:
Only a GTC convertible returned for 1994, with a V6 engine and dual airbags--plus a "one-price" sales strategy. Base and LX versions bit the dust. Coupes were gone for good, too, ready for replacement by the new-for-1995 Sebring.
1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible:
For its final season, the GTC convertible continued as the only LeBaron model. A year later, a Chrysler Sebring would serve as its open-topped successor.
Our road test for the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
With a Mitsubishi V6 beneath the hood, the shapely LeBarons gained refined power to match their sharp looks. Both the base 4-cylinder engine and its turbocharged counterparts are gruff and noisy, while the Mitsubishi-built V6 provides smoother performance. Sure, it has less power and torque than either of the turbocharged fours, but it's much quieter and delivers its strength in a far more linear manner. If you simply must have a turbocharged engine, note that the 2.5-liter turbo is less raucous than the earlier 2.2, which disappeared after 1990. We averaged 22.9 mpg with a V6 convertible in city/highway driving. Regardless of engine choice, automatic transmissions shift sloppily. Convertibles lag somewhat in solidity. Even minor bumps cause the body to twist and flex more than most open cars. For anything beyond merely competent handling and roadholding, look for a GTC with its performance suspension and tires. But be prepared for a choppy ride over rough pavement. Abundant road noise can make it difficult to talk in normal tones at highway speeds. The new, modern interior installed for 1990 is a vast improvement over prior dashboards, positioning controls closer to the driver. Gauges are easy to see, controls easy to use. Climate and radio controls are readily accessible. Six-footers are likely to be comfortable in front. Backseats are bigger than in most coupes, but insufficient for adults on long drives. Trunks are small.
Value for the Money
Though not devoid of flaws, LeBarons still look sharp and perform reasonably well--at least with the smooth V6 engine.
Though not devoid of flaws, LeBarons still look sharp and perform reasonably well--at least with the smooth V6 engine.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chrysler LeBaron GTC convertible Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling and/or the airflow from the vents decreases, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the AC evaporator to freeze up. (1991-95)
Alternator belt:
Unless a shield is installed under the engine on the right side, deep snow could knock the serpentine belt off the pulleys of a 3.0-liter engine. (1991-95)
Automatic transmission:
Transmission shudder under light to moderate acceleration could be due to a worn bushing, which requires replacement of the pump as well as the torque converter. (1990-95)
Automatic transmission:
41TE or 42LE automatic transaxles could take several seconds to engage at startup because of a problem with the valve body. (1993-95)
Automatic transmission:
Bad seals in the transmission lead to premature friction component wear, which causes shudder when starting from a stop, a bump when coasting to a stop, and slipping between gears. (1993-95)
Cold-starting problems:
2.2- or 2.5-liter engines may idle rough or stumble when first started below freezing temperatures unless a revised intake manifold (with an "X" cast into the number 1 runner) was installed (1992), a revised computer (PCM) was installed (1992-93), or the computer was reprogrammed. (1994)
Engine noise:
The motor mount on the left side of the engine tends to break. (1992-93)
Oil consumption:
High oil consumption and smoke from the exhaust at idle and deceleration on 3.0-liter engines is caused by exhaust valve guides that slide out of the heads. (1990-93)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $450 |
| Alternator | $315 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $905 |
| Brakes | $240 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $515 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $375 |
| Exhaust System | $325 |
| Radiator | $315 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $340 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $345 |
Our price chart for this generation Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1995 | |||
| Convertible | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 1994 | |||
| Convertible | $1,700-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $300 |
| 1993 | |||
| Convertible | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| LeBaron Coupe | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1992 | |||
| Convertible | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| LeBaron Coupe | $1,100-1,400 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Convertible | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| LeBaron Coupe | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
| 1990 | |||
| Convertible | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| LeBaron Coupe | $0 | $0 | $0 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase, in. | 100.6 | 100.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 184.8 | 184.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.2 | 69.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 52.4 | 53.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3010 | 2863 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 10.3 | 14.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.0 | 14.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 37.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.5 | 42.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 | 36.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.0 | 33.0 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
The Mitsubishi-built 3.0-liter V6, introduced as an option for 1990, develops 141 horsepower. The V6 might be found in any LeBaron that year except the GTC, which employed Chrysler's new 2.2-liter intercooled VNT (Variable Nozzle Turbo) Turbo IV engine, making 174 horsepower. Only a 5-speed manual transmission could be installed in the GTC, but other LeBarons might have either manual shift or a 3-speed automatic; or, for the first time, a 4-speed automatic that was standard on some models, optional on others. Base engine was a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. A V6 went into LX and GTC models for 1991. The potent 2.2-liter turbo disappeared that year, in favor of a 2.5-liter that could go into either a base LeBaron or GTC.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbocharged ohc I4 | 2.2 / 135 | 174 | 210 | 5-speed manual: 20/28 | 5-speed manual: -- |
| ohc I4 | 2.5 / 153 | 100 | 135 | 5-speed manual: 24/34 3-speed automatic: 23/28 |
5-speed manual: 25.1 3-speed automatic: 22.5 |
| Turbocharged ohc I4 | 2.5 / 153 | 152 | 210-211 | 5-speed manual: 20/27 3-speed automatic: 19/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 141 | 171 | 5-speed manual: 19/28 3-speed automatic: 21/27 4-speed automatic: 20/29 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: 22.9 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe/Convertible directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990:
Engine valve cover gasket may dislocate and allow oil leak, which could cause a fire.
1991:
Front disc brake caliper guide pin bolts may not be adequately tightened and could loosen.
1991:
On small number of cars, mismatched parking brake cable to rear wheels may reduce braking capability to one wheel, possibly allowing inadvertent roll-away.
1992:
Hood-latch assembly may not have been properly installed and secondary latch may be prevented from engaging when hood is closed.
1992:
Zinc plating of some upper steering column shaft coupling bolts caused hydrogen embrittlement and breakage of the bolt.
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