The 1996 Chrysler Concorde was a significant player in the American full-size sedan market, known for its distinctive cab-forward design and spacious interior, offering a blend of comfort and performance aimed at competing with established domestic and import rivals.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Lumina, Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight, Buick LeSabre, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima.
Typically Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound for ease of use in a shop environment.
Paper Type
Paper:
Durable, high-quality paper stock designed for shop use.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code And Description:
EER - 3.5L (215 cu in) SOHC V6
Performance
Horsepower:
214 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
221 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 octane recommended)
Engine Mechanical
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
42LE Automatic Transaxle
Optional
Availability:
N/A (Standard on all 1996 Concorde models)
Features
Shift Modes:
Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low
Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatc Transmission Fluid, Type 9602) or equivalent ATF+3
Fluid Capacity
Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 8.2 quarts (total capacity, may differ for dry fill)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
203.7 inches
Width:
74.9 inches
Height:
55.7 inches
Wheelbase:
113.0 inches
Front Track:
61.8 inches
Rear Track:
61.7 inches
Interior
Front Headroom:
39.7 inches
Rear Headroom:
38.2 inches
Front Legroom:
43.0 inches
Rear Legroom:
41.7 inches
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
16.7 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,700 - 3,900 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,950 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (1996 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (1996 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver's side knee bolster.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, premium Infinity speaker systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity
Cellular Integration:
N/A (No factory integrated cellular systems)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil is recommended for extended intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (OEM recommendation for platinum-tipped plugs).
Coolant Flush And Replace:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH)
Coolant:
Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the 3.5L compared to some other Chrysler V6s of the era, monitor for coolant leaks and overheating.
Transmission Issues:
The 42LE transmission can experience internal wear over time, leading to slipping or harsh shifting. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Interior Trim Wear:
Certain interior plastics and upholstery can show wear due to age.
Power Window Regulators:
Can become weak or fail over time, requiring replacement.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Components like the charcoal canister or purge valve can cause check engine lights related to fuel vapor leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage Context:
Chrysler, under the leadership of Bob Lutz and Tom Gale, aimed to revitalize its product line with innovative designs and engineering. The LH platform was a cornerstone of this strategy.
Model Evolution
Lh Platform Introduction:
The LH platform debuted for the 1993 model year with the Dodge Intrepid, Eagle Vision, and Chrysler Concorde. The Concorde was positioned as the more premium offering.
1996 Update:
The 1996 model year saw minor refinements and potentially packaging changes, but represented a continuation of the initial LH design philosophy.