Found the driver side strut tower is completely rusted out. Discovered online hundreds of complaints of same on the same vehicle and date range. Plymouth Chrysler know about this and describes it as cosmetic but this is a structural problem.

- Blaine, MN, USA

My mechanic commented there was a serious problem with my two front strut towers. They had severe corrosion and the struts were pushing through the top of the tower. He was concerned when the struts pushed through I would have difficulty controlling my vehicle. I took the vehicle to my Plymouth dealer on August 10th 2004 (98,402 miles just over 6 years old). Chrysler refused to do anything about the problem. The corrosion is so severe that the metal is perforated and starting to tear. I work for a company that sells anti-corrosion coating (called electrocoat) and know that this problem must have been going on for years. If not hidden under the hood I would have noticed it long before the warranty was up. Had the part design been proper and the electrocoating done correctly this defect should not occur before 10 years. This is not an uncommon problem with my model. Chrysler issued a tsb number 23-044-02 ackowledging this problem for vans built from 1996-2000 and has a repair kit and procedure. If the problem is identified within the warranty period the tsb states it is reimbursable. I posted my problem on a message board and quickly recieved a reply form another owner with the same problem I have digital photos which I can send to you. I will save the defective towers which need to be cut from the body and replaced. The repair will cost $1350 and will be done in two weeks. The defect is difficult to see and many people may be driving with a compromised suspension and dangerous condition without knowing it. Chrysler seems unwilling to face up to thier responsibility in this matter and will likely do nothing unless your office does something to force them to address the issue or a disaster occurs because if it. Please look into this situation. If my van or the old towers can serve any useful purpose in your investigation let me know.

- Rochester, MI, USA