Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability
July 10, 2023

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!
The automotive industry is fiercely competitive, and a vehicle's reliability is essential to survival.
Chrysler and Nissan, two formidable industry giants, have built a loyal customer base with their impressive range of offerings. However, regarding the crucial factor of reliability, which of these manufacturers reigns supreme?
A comprehensive comparison of their reliability is imperative with a diverse array of models available from both sides.
In this discourse, we shall conduct an in-depth analysis of the Chrysler vs. Nissan reliability to ascertain why Nissan is considered to be more reliable than Chrysler.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Detailed Comparison
- Which Is the Best Car: Chrysler or Nissan?
- 1. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Design
- 2. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost
- 3. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Durability
- 4. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Engine
- 5. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Gas Mileage
- 6. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Technology
- 7. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Safety
- Final Verdict
- Best Car Deals by Category
- Frequently Asked Questions
Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Detailed Comparison
Features | Chrysler | Nissan |
Design | ||
Repairs and Maintenance Cost | ||
Durability | ||
Engine | ||
Gas Mileage | ||
Technology | ||
Safety |
Which Is the Best Car: Chrysler or Nissan?
When appraising the top-tier automobiles each automaker offers, one must consider various factors that span from design and engineering to safety and reliability.
With a dominant position in the automotive industry, Chrysler boasts a rich legacy spanning nearly a century, characterized by a lineup of vehicles distinguished by the design and innovative engineering, with a particular emphasis on minivans, including the extensive Pacifica, Pacifica Hybrid, and Voyager.
In contrast, Nissan has garnered acclaim for manufacturing pragmatic and dependable vehicles that cater to a wide range of drivers.
Nissan cars are renowned for their dependability, with several models consistently receiving high marks on industry reliability metrics.
The automaker's portfolio ranges from efficient urban cars to rugged SUVs, providing choices for families, adventurers, and individuals.
Additionally, Nissan prides itself on pioneering technologies, such as the ProPILOT Assist system, which enhances driver assistance and safety.
1. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Design
In terms of design philosophy, both Chrysler and Nissan embody distinct approaches that cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Chrysler's design philosophy is characterized by a bold and modern aesthetic, marked by fluid lines and striking accents that exude visual drama, catering to consumers' preferences seeking an edgy and cutting-edge appearance.
On the other hand, Nissan's design philosophy draws inspiration from its Japanese origins, emphasizing reverence for nature, significance, and consideration for the impact on others.
Nissan has adapted this Japanese DNA to contemporary times through their Nissan Design J-DNA, which embodies a more universal and global perspective, leading to a better society and a more fulfilling life through cars.
While both manufacturers' design philosophies have unique strengths, Chrysler has a slight edge in catering to the current trend of cutting-edge design.
However, Nissan's emphasis on creating a better society through its design philosophy is commendable and sets them apart.
Winner: Both
2. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost
The analysis of maintenance and repair costs for Chrysler and Nissan models reveals stark differences.
Chrysler's average maintenance and repair costs for the initial decade of service come out to around $11,364, $4,550 more than the industry average for famous brands.
Additionally, there is a 26.04% likelihood that a Chrysler will require a significant repair during this time.
Contrarily, Nissan's models have an average maintenance and repair cost of $8,088 during the first ten years of service.
While this amount is lower than Chrysler's cost, it still surpasses the industry average by $1,274, which may pose a considerable burden for budget-conscious buyers.
In terms of maintenance and repair costs, Nissan is the winner, with lower costs than Chrysler. However, it still exceeds the industry average.
Winner: Nissan
3. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Durability
Regarding vehicle lifespan, the performance of the Chrysler and Nissan models is worth comparing. On average, Chrysler vehicles have a lifespan of between 210,000 and 240,000 miles. The most dependable model, the 200, can withstand up to 260,000 miles.
However, the Crossfire, the least dependable model, has a lifespan of only 160,000 miles.
The 300 sedan is an exception, as it can outlast the 100,000-mile mark and occasionally surpass the 200,000-mile threshold when appropriately maintained.
In contrast, Nissans can last an average of about 250,000 miles, with most drivers reporting a lifespan around this figure.
However, the longevity of a Nissan is heavily influenced by maintenance practices and driving history. With diligent care and maintenance, a Nissan can easily exceed 300,000 miles.
Nissan is the winner in terms of lifespan, with a slightly higher average lifespan than Chrysler. It is important to note that individual models and maintenance habits can significantly impact the performance and longevity of a vehicle.
Winner: Nissan
4. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Engine
Regarding engine power and driving experience, the Chrysler 300S V8 takes the lead with its commanding 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine that delivers impressive horsepower and torque.
The standard Sport Mode allows for a customizable driving experience, making for a finely-tuned, sporty ride that will turn heads.
On the other hand, Nissan's diverse lineup caters to a wide range of driving needs, offering options such as a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine delivering up to 180hp and a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine generating 188hp. A 3.0L V6 engine produces almost 300hp for those seeking more power.
For eco-conscious drivers, Nissan's LEAF is a top choice, boasting an electric powertrain consisting of a forty-kWh battery pack and 110 kW electric motor, delivering an impressive range of up to 111 miles.
Winner: Nissan
5. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Gas Mileage
Chrysler vehicles provide a range of fuel-efficient options for drivers. The Pacifica and Voyager minivans have a combined MPG of 22, while the Pacifica AWD has a combined MPG of 20.
The 300 sedan with a 6-cylinder engine has a combined MPG of 23, and the 8-cylinder engine version has a combined MPG of 19. The Pacifica Hybrid combines gas and electricity, achieving 82 MPGe when running on electricity and 30 MPG on gas.
Nissan offers a variety of fuel-efficient options for drivers as well. The Nissan Leaf is the top performer with an impressive 111 MPGe, while the Nissan Versa leads the gas models with 35 MPG.
The Kicks and Sentra follow closely with 33 MPG, while the Altima and Rogue score 32 and 30 MPG, respectively.
The Maxima and Murano drop to 24 and 23 MPG, respectively. The 370Z, TITAN, and Armada complete Nissan's lineup with 20, 18, and 16 MPG, respectively.
Winner: Nissan
6. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Technology
Chrysler and Nissan both offer innovative technological features to enhance the driving experience.
Chrysler's Uconnect® 4C and Uconnect 4C NAV systems, along with integrated Voice Command, Wireless Connectivity, and SiriusXM, make accessing favorite streaming, navigation, and communication apps easy for drivers.
On the other hand, Nissan takes a step further with its advanced voice control system that features natural language-understanding technology, improving conventional voice interfaces' usability.
The system can estimate the user's intention from vague utterances and control in-vehicle equipment such as navigation, audio, air-conditioning systems, and telephone.
By saying "Hello Nissan," the user can activate Voice Control and use natural language to control the in-vehicle equipment.
The Nissan smartphone app allows users to perform operations such as locking the vehicle doors, turning the air conditioner on/off, and checking the vehicle's status, including the remaining battery or warning lights.
Winner: Chrysler
7. Chrysler vs. Nissan Reliability: Safety
Chrysler's safety features include Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist with Rear Cross Path Detection.
These features are designed to help drivers prevent accidents and ensure the safety of their passengers while on the road.
On the other hand, Nissan's ProPILOT technology is an advanced driver-assistance system that significantly enhances collision-avoidance performance.
It uses ground truth perception technology to assist with acceleration, braking, and steering operations when driving on a single lane on a highway.
The system allows the driver to set the vehicle speed. Still, it also supports vehicle speed changes when the speed limit changes and deceleration corresponds to the size of the curve.
ProPILOT with Navi-link takes this one step further, reducing the frequency of the driver's operations by supporting even more advanced features.
Winner: Both
Final Verdict
Going by the various parameters used in this piece, the only logical conclusion is, Nissan is more reliable than Chrysler. The Nissan brand dominated in almost all categories.
Best Car Deals by Category
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chrysler vehicles reliable?
Chrysler vehicles have had mixed reliability ratings in recent years, with some models performing well and others scoring lower. Overall, Chrysler ranks in the middle of the pack among car manufacturers regarding reliability.
Are Nissan vehicles reliable?
Nissan has had a solid reputation for reliability over the years, with many of its models consistently scoring high in reliability ratings.
However, in recent years, some Nissan models have had lower reliability ratings than others.
Which brand is more reliable, Chrysler or Nissan?
In general, Nissan is considered a more reliable brand than Chrysler. However, reliability ratings can vary greatly depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle.
It is always a good idea to research the reliability ratings of a specific model before making a purchase decision.
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