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2012 Chrysler Town and Country Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall
2012 Chrysler Town and Country Report

Overall Score

5.9/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The most prevalent issue reported by owners is the electrical system, accounting for nearly half of all complaints, often manifesting as stalling or power loss.
  • The 3.6L V6 engine has a recall for potential connecting rod bearing failure, indicating a critical manufacturing defect that requires verification of remedy.
  • While safety ratings are good, with a 5-star side crash rating, the high number of complaints and recalls suggests potential long-term ownership risks.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for a minivan, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Chrysler Town and Country

The 2012 Chrysler Town and Country offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families. However, potential buyers should be aware of its documented reliability concerns. With 6 recalls and over 860 complaints logged with NHTSA, particularly concerning the electrical system, this minivan requires careful inspection. Its 3.6L V6 engine provides adequate power, and the combined 20 MPG is competitive for its class. Safety ratings are solid, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars.

Critical Failure Risk

The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is a common failure point, leading to a wide array of electrical issues including stalling, loss of power, and non-functional accessories. Wiring harness issues and other control module failures also contribute to this high complaint volume.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls6
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

860
Electrical System390
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

5.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families prioritizing interior space and comfort over long-term reliability.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Chrysler Town and Country Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Minivan
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 390 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 99 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
6 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country is 5.8/10. Reliability score is 5.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 860.

How practical is the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country is 5.9/10. Overall score is 5.9/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (TIPM, Wiring) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 Town and Country require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country, body style is minivan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (390 reports, 45.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Chrysler Town and Country?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda Odyssey and 2012 Toyota Sienna.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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