1996 Chrysler Town and Country: brake failure

Filed Jun 20, 2007 · Brakes · 75,000 miles · TX

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 chrysler town and country. The contact stated that the brakes failed while driving 15 MPH. When the brakes where applied, the contact heard a pop and the brake pedal went completely to the floor. The vehicle was towed. The dealer stated that the brake hoses were not standard parts due to the modification of the brakes for medical handicap purposes. There were two holes in the hoses because the parts were not standard, which caused the brake failure. The current and failure mileages were 75,000.

Filed Sep 16, 2005 · Brakes · 81,285 miles · MN

Failure of both rear brake hydraulic lines causing sudden loss of brake fluid making emergency brake only operable stopping device. Saved old lines. Both lines appear to have rusted through. Mechanic believes problem is with design in how lines are routed above gas tank approximately two feet ahead of left rear wheel. The position of the lines allows road salt and other corrosives to be collected on the steel surface of the hydraulic lines, thus leading to their eminent failure. Please note low mileage of vehicle. Mechanic repaired vehicle by installing new lines, but routed them in a position less susceptible to corrosion. Failure was preceded by noticeable leaking of brake fluid on garage floor. Ultimate failure occurred when vehicle was brought in for inspection/repair. Lines burst when mechanic tested brakes by pressing hard on brake pedal while it was parked. Brake fluid spilled out all over service floor. Actual repair cost: $289.02.*jb

Filed Sep 29, 2002 · Engine · WA · fire

Engine compartment caught fire driving at normal speed. First sign was a brake failure then white smoke started coming out from under engine hood. Mr

Filed Jun 20, 2001 · Brakes · IN · crash

Brake failure approaching intersection went through red light avoided collision with traffic jumped curb entered parking lot and sideswiped pole in drive through before finally stopping. Could have killed someone or myself and wife. Wife was driving. Dealer and chrysler special investgator could find nothing wrong with brakes!! Police report on file # 420920 evansville in. Do not feel confident in driving this vechicle until cause is determined and fixed!!!

Filed Oct 14, 2000 · Brakes · CA · crash

My wife had been driving approximately 30 miles on the freeway. As she was exiting the freeway, she stepped on the brake peddle to slow down normally. She felt pressure from the peddle, but then the peddle went all the way down with no effect. She pumped the peddle at least one more time, but again it went all the way down with no effect. She then had to concetrate on avoiding other cars, but finally rear ended a truck. After the minivan was repaired, we had the brakes inspected by two service centers. The second service center is the one listed in the report and is the one that regularly services our minivan. We are wondering what could cause this type of brake failure and if there are any other similar incidences that have been reported?

Filed Sep 23, 1999 · Brakes · MA

When applying the brakes the pedal goes to the floor, and has to be pumped in order to stop vehicle. This happens when it is wet outside. Dealer has not seen vehicle.

Filed Sep 3, 1999 · Brakes, Engine · PA

I am disabled secondary to multiple sclerosis but an still actively employed as a physician. I was thrilled to purchase a vehicle through chrysler that was adapted by braun corporation with a lowered floor, entervan ramp and hand controls. From the first 6800 miles, I have had repeated problems. In the past year and a half, I have been stranded in my vehicle in my wheelchair and the van has required towing. I was prompted to reach out to you for help because the first problem (at 6800 miles) recurred now at 40,000 miles. My brakes failed entirely without warning and I was travelling at 40mph. Chrysler points the finger at braun and quality coach (the distributor locally). They point the finger at chrysler. Chrysler said that in 1996, braun cahnged the location of the fuel pump and this required "customization" of the line between the brake pump and the master cylinder. This "custmized" line has worn through twice (the first time at 6800 miles) with no warning. I was assured then that the problem was corrected but found out at 40mph that my brakes were gone again. I had gotten the van serviced at the dealer 6 weeks prior to this and new front brakes were installed. I also had it in 12 weeks prior to this incident to have all the conversion equipment checked. Needless to say, no assurances from them that they have corrected the problem will convince me to drive this van and I do not, in good conscience, want to pass this problem on to another innocent person. Please advise and help if you can!

Filed Oct 9, 1998 · Engine · IL

The bolt within the serpentine belt tensioner, which is attached to frame broke, causing loss of brakes/steering and alternator. Dealer has been notified. Part # is 461289y.

Filed Oct 27, 1997 · Brakes, Fuel system · CA

Brakes failed.

Filed Sep 22, 1997 · Brakes, Steering · CA

Brake failure.

Filed Oct 2, 1996 · Brakes · FL

While driving experienced brake failure, when made attempt to slow/stop, pedal went to floor and vehicle continued to roll forward, no prior warning.

Filed May 2, 1996 · Brakes · CA

Failure of the ABS brakes, consumer having a hard time stopping the vehicle (intermittent loss of brakes).