1990 Chrysler Imperial: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1990 Chrysler Imperial: 2 recalls, 108 owner complaints and up to 18 mpg combined.
Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Brakes (hydraulic) Vehicle recall #91V191000 · 1991 · 80,000 vehicles
What's wrong: The anti-lock brake system high pressure hose May leak or detach at its crimped end fitting resulting in the discharge of hydraulic fluid.
Why it matters: Fluid discharge eventually causes the loss of both theanti-lock brake system and hydraulic assist for the brake system, resulting inincreased likelihood of brake lockup and increased stopping distances, whichcould result in a vehicle accident.
The fix: Replace the ABS high pressure hose with a hose of different design and construction.
Brakes (hydraulic) Vehicle recall #96V099000 · 1996 · 321,000 vehicles
What's wrong: The ABS hydraulic control unit can experience excessive brake actuator piston seal wear causing pump-motor deterioration.
Why it matters: If this condition occurs, the ABS function could be lost and reduced power assist would be experienced during vehicle braking increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.
The fix: Dealers will test the vehicle's anti-lock brake system and repair the vehicles if necessary. Also the warranty on all ABS components will be extended to 10 years or 100,000 miles (except for the brake actuator piston assembly and the pump-motor assembly which will have a lifetime coverage). Owners…
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 1 mention a fire, 2 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Brakes (hydraulic) (88): the most common themes are brake failure / soft pedal (20), warning light on (14).
- Suspension (5): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (4): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Fuel system (4): the most common themes are fire / smoke (4), leaks (2).
The 1990 Chrysler Imperial has 108 owner complaints, ranking #1 of 6 Imperial model years for complaints (2.3× the average Imperial year). Complaints peaked in 1997 (18 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 10 years old, at a median of 88,500 miles. Neighboring years: 1991 (84 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.3 L 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 16 | 23 | 18 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1990 Chrysler Imperial.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 1990 Chrysler Imperial have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 1990 Chrysler Imperial. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 1990 Chrysler Imperial problems?
Owners have filed 108 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are brakes (hydraulic) (88), suspension (5), transmission & drivetrain (4).
What gas mileage does the 1990 Chrysler Imperial get?
EPA ratings run up to 18 mpg combined (3.3 L, Automatic 4-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1990 Chrysler Imperial repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.