Chrysler vs Ford: Reliability Comparison

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Chris Cho

Chris Cho

Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.

When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!

Chris also has a passion for things that go fast, and drones are no exception. He spends some of his time writing for Dronesourced.

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Chrysler earned a reputation for their aesthetically pleasing minivans like the Pacifica, Pacifica Hybrid, and Voyager, establishing itself as a ubiquitous household name in the American automotive industry.

Ford's DNA is centered around innovation. They consistently push the boundaries of what is possible and strive to create vehicles packed with helpful features, driver-centric designs, and cutting-edge technology.

While some of their innovations, such as Traffic Sign Recognition and SYNC 3 connectivity, are immediately visible, others, like EcoBoost Engine Technology and All-Wheel Drive, work behind the scenes to ensure an enjoyable experience for drivers and passengers alike.

Regarding Chrysler vs. Ford reliability, Chrysler's rating stands at 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking it 11th out of 32 car brands. Ford's reliability rating is also 3.5 out of 5.0, placing it 21st out of 32 car brands.

This article will cover all the parameters, such as design, repair, and maintenance cost, to come to an acceptable conclusion on why Chrysler is more reliable than Ford.

Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Detailed Comparison

Which Is the Best Car: Chrysler or Ford?

The automotive industry is brimming with many options for discerning consumers, and amidst the sea of possibilities, the two prominent names that come to mind are Chrysler and Ford.

These brands have long been synonymous with excellence and have dominated the American market with their premium vehicles.

Chrysler's most popular products include its well-designed minivans, such as the Pacifica, Pacifica Hybrid, and Voyager.

These vehicles boast harmonious lines, advanced features, and a wide range of customization options, making them popular among American consumers.

The artistry of automotive engineering is evident in Chrysler's designs, which perfectly blend form and function.

In contrast, Ford's approach to innovation is unparalleled. The brand has established a culture of pushing the boundaries of possibility and invention, resulting in vehicles packed with driver-centric design, cutting-edge features, and innovative technology.

From Traffic Sign Recognition to SYNC 3 connectivity, Ford's vehicles have always been at the forefront of technological advancements.

Chrysler and Ford have a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which places them squarely in the middle of the pack.

1. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Design

Chrysler's design philosophy is known for its avant-garde and bold aesthetic.

It is characterized by flowing contours and striking embellishments that emanate visual panache, which appeals to consumers seeking a cutting-edge appearance.

On the other hand, Ford's kinetic design, which debuted in 2004, has redefined the appearance of Ford's models across the spectrum.

Martin Smith, Ford's Executive Design Director, describes the kinetic design as having "audacious, dynamic lines and uninterrupted surfaces." The kinetic design aims to achieve a consistent appearance of motion, even when the car is stationary.

Since its introduction, this design philosophy has been refreshed and modernized through many generations of Ford models. The embodiment of Ford's kinetic design was first unveiled in the SAV concept car in 2005.

This pioneering concept informed the design of the renowned S-MAX. Since then, this original design has also inspired models such as the Galaxy, Mondeo, Kuga, Focus, Fiesta, and Ka.

Each model that adopts Ford's kinetic design is designed to evoke an emotional response to its appearance. Martin Smith sums up this goal by stating that he wants people to see a Ford car and immediately think, "I must have one." This ambition has become a reality, as Ford's robust lineup of visually stunning and appealing cars demonstrates.

After careful consideration, it isn't easy to declare a clear winner between Chrysler and Ford. While Chrysler's design philosophy is daring and innovative, Ford's kinetic design is visually compelling and emotionally evocative.

Winner: Ford

2. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost

Upon closer examination of the maintenance and repair costs, it is evident that Chrysler models have an average cost of around $11,364 during the first decade of their service, which surpasses the industry average for popular brands by $4,550.

Additionally, there is a significant 26.04% likelihood that a Chrysler will require a major repair during this timeframe.

On the other hand, Ford models have an average cost of about $9,860 for maintenance and repair costs during their first decade of service, which is greater than the industry average for popular brands by $3,046.

However, Ford's likelihood of a significant repair is slightly lower than Chrysler, at 22.36%.

Winner: Ford

3. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Durability

With proper care and maintenance, a Chrysler vehicle is built to last a considerable amount of time. According to Vehicle History, the 300 sedans, for instance, have been known to exceed 100,000 miles and, in some cases, even surpass 200,000 miles.

On the other hand, Ford vehicles have been rated to last up to 200,000 miles or 13 years, which is an impressive feat.

Furthermore, in J.D. Power's 2020 vehicle dependability study, Ford ranked 10th, performing better than the industry standard as well as competing brands like Ram, Dodge, and Jeep.

Based on this information, Ford may have a slight advantage in terms of longevity and dependability.

Winner: Ford

4. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Engine

The Chrysler 300S V8 is an impressive feat of engineering, showcasing a powerful 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine that delivers a commanding level of horsepower and torque, resulting in an exhilarating driving experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Chrysler 300 boasts a 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 VVT engine that unleashes a respectable 292 hp of power and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Although the V8 model is undoubtedly more powerful, both engines offer impressive performance and a reliable driving experience.

On the other hand, Ford has a history of producing exceptional engines, and the 5.2-liter "Voodoo" V8 is no exception. The hand-built, naturally aspirated engine found its way into the Shelby Mustang GT350 and GT350R, showcasing its power and precision.

Moreover, the 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 will feature the most potent Ford engine yet, a formidable supercharged engine that generates 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque.

This makes the revolutionary 2020 Mustang GT500 the most powerful street-legal Ford ever produced.

Winner: Both

5. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Gas Mileage

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica combined MPG is 22, with city MPG rated at 19 and highway MPG at 28. Similarly, the 2021 Chrysler Voyager, powered by a 6-cylinder 3.6L engine and automatic 9-speed transmission, has the same fuel efficiency ratings as the Pacifica.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica AWD has a combined MPG of 20, with city MPG at 17 and highway MPG of 25. It consumes 5.0 gallons of gas per 100 miles.

The 2021 Chrysler 300, equipped with a 6-cylinder 3.6L engine and automatic 8-speed transmission, has a combined MPG of 23, with city MPG at 19 and highway MPG at 30. The 2021 Chrysler 300 has a lower fuel efficiency rating.

This vehicle has a combined MPG of 19, with a city MPG of 16 and a highway MPG of 25. Lastly, the 2021 Chrysler 300 AWD has a combined MPG of 21, with a city MPG of 18 and a highway MPG of 27. It consumes 4.8 gallons of gas per 100 miles.

The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has two different MPG ratings. When electricity runs, the combined MPG on Electricity is 82 MPGe, with a city/highway range of 0.0 gal/100mi of gas +41 kWh/100mi.

When running on gas only, the combined MPG is 30, with a city/highway range of 3.3 gal/100 mi.

The 2022 Ford Transit Connect Van FWD combined MPG is 22, with city MPG rated at 20 and highway MPG at 26. It consumes 4.5 gallons of gas per 100 miles. Similarly, the 2022 Ford Transit Connect Wagon LWB FWD and the 2022 Ford Transit Connect USPS have the same fuel efficiency ratings as the Transit Connect Van FWD.

The 2022 Ford Transit Connect Van FWD has a higher fuel efficiency rating than the previous models, with a combined MPG of 25 city MPG rated at 24.

Winner: Chrysler

6. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Technology

Chrysler provides drivers with various advanced technological features to stay connected and entertained during long trips.

The Uconnect® 4C and Uconnect 4C NAV systems, integrated with Voice Command, Wireless Connectivity, and SiriusXM, give navigation, communication, and streaming apps easy access.

On the other hand, FordPass Connect is a built-in modem that lets you stay connected in your car just as you are at home. Combined with the FordPass app, the technology unlocks various connected features that become even more powerful.

Ford SYNC technology enables you to manage a range of connected vehicle features through the touchscreen or simple voice commands.

You can control everything from phone calls and text messages to vehicle navigation and playing your favorite music.

Regarding the most innovative system, the new SYNC 4A on the all-electric Mustang Mach-E is Ford's most intelligent yet, with cloud-based connectivity and over-the-air updates. SYNC 4A offers a seamlessly integrated, continuously evolving customer experience.

Vehicles with FordPass Connect are also designed to evolve, with technology that can download Ford Power-Up software updates over the air, ensuring that your vehicle is always up to date.

These updates can upgrade vehicle software, introduce new or updated vehicle features, and enhance your vehicle's quality, capability, and convenience.

Winner: Both

7. Chrysler vs. Ford Reliability: Safety

Chrysler's advanced safety features include Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist are designed to help drivers avoid collisions and keep their passengers safe.

These systems use sophisticated technology to detect potential hazards and react quickly to prevent accidents from occurring.

Ford's Intelligent Protection System (IPS) is a coordinated safety system that activates in a split-second to help keep you and your passengers safe.

The IPS includes active and passive safety features, such as Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Anti-Lock Braking, Traction Control, advanced seatbelts, airbags, and the pedal intrusion prevention system.

In addition, Ford's Rear Inflatable Seat Belt provides added protection for your passengers.

These unique seatbelts inflate in the event of an impact, spreading the crash forces over a larger body area than conventional seat belts. This reduces pressure on the chest and better controls head and neck movement, reducing the likelihood of injury.

Winner: Both

Final Verdict

Chrysler and Ford offer impressive technological and safety features in their vehicles.

They are also very durable and have awe-inspiring designs. Still, as evidenced by this piece, the Ford brand is more reliable than Chrysler.