1994-1997 Chrysler LHS Grille: Identifying the Correct Body-Color Style and Avoiding Broken Tabs
This guide focuses on the key differences of the LHS-specific body-colored grille and what to inspect when buying a used replacement.
- The 1994-1997 Chrysler LHS uses a unique body-colored grille; chrome grilles are typically from the New Yorker model.
- When buying a used grille, the condition of the rear mounting tabs is more important than the cosmetic finish.
- There are no recalls or TSBs for this part; all failures are due to age, sun exposure, or physical impact.
- Replacement is a very simple DIY job that requires minimal tools and can be completed in under 30 minutes.
Symptoms of a Failing Grille
Since a grille is a static, cosmetic part, its failure is always visual. There are no codes or running issues associated with a bad grille. Symptoms are straightforward and easy to spot.
- Cracked or Broken Plastic: The most common failure is physical damage. Decades of exposure to sun and weather can make the original plastic brittle. A minor impact from a parking bump or road debris can cause cracks or break entire sections of the grille.
- Peeling or Faded Finish: The 1994-1997 LHS featured a body-colored grille. Over time, the paint can fade, chip, or peel due to sun exposure and stone chips, making the vehicle look worn.
- Broken Mounting Tabs: This is the most critical failure point, especially on used parts. The plastic tabs that hold the grille to the bumper cover and radiator support can easily break during removal or from a minor impact. A grille with broken tabs will be loose, rattle, or may not stay attached to the vehicle at all.
- Missing Emblem: The Chrysler emblem in the center of the grille can fade, break, or fall off, leaving an unsightly empty space.
Pro Tip: A loose or rattling grille is almost always caused by broken mounting tabs. Even if the front of the grille looks perfect, it cannot be secured properly if the tabs on the back are damaged.
Buying a Used 1994-1997 LHS Grille
Given the age of these vehicles, a used OEM grille is the most common replacement option. New OEM stock is essentially non-existent. While aftermarket options exist, a good-condition used OEM part often provides better fit and durability. Here’s what to look for:
1. Inspect All Mounting Tabs
This is the single most important check. Carefully flip the grille over and inspect every single mounting point. Look for tabs that are cracked, stressed (showing white lines in the plastic), or broken off completely. Do not purchase a grille with broken tabs unless you are prepared to attempt a plastic repair, which is often unsuccessful long-term.
2. Verify the Style and Color
The Chrysler LHS was the premium model and was distinguished by its body-colored grille. The very similar Chrysler New Yorker (sold until 1996) often had a chrome grille. Ensure the grille you are buying is the correct body-colored style for the LHS. If buying online, check listings for unpainted or primer-only grilles that you can paint to match your vehicle's specific color code.
3. Check for Cracks and Structural Damage
Flex the grille slightly to reveal any hidden hairline cracks, especially around the screw holes and emblem area. A small crack can quickly spread once the grille is installed and subjected to vibration and wind pressure.
4. Examine the Finish
For a pre-painted grille, check the quality of the paint. Look for deep scratches, peeling clear coat, or significant fading. While minor cosmetic issues can be expected, they will affect the final appearance on your car. It is often better to buy a structurally perfect grille with poor paint than a shiny grille with hidden cracks.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Chrysler or the NHTSA specifically related to the grille on the 1994-1997 LHS. All common issues are related to age and physical damage, such as plastic becoming brittle and paint degradation from UV exposure.
Replacement Overview and Difficulty
- Difficulty: 1 out of 5 (Very Easy)
- DIY Time: 15-30 minutes
- Tools Needed: Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead), possibly a small pry tool.
Replacing the grille on an LHS is a straightforward job suitable for any DIY skill level. The process typically involves opening the hood, removing a few screws or plastic retaining clips from the top of the grille, and then carefully pulling the grille forward to release the lower tabs from the bumper cover. When installing the new grille, be sure to line up all the tabs before applying pressure to snap it into place to avoid breaking them.
Cost Comparison
Pricing for a replacement grille can vary significantly based on source and condition.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $0 (Discontinued/No Longer Available) |
| New Aftermarket | $80 - $150 |
| Used OEM | $100 - $250 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a grille from a Chrysler Concorde or New Yorker fit my LHS?
While they are all based on the same LH platform, the grilles are different. The New Yorker grille (pre-1997) is the most similar but is typically chrome, whereas the LHS grille is body-colored. Grilles from the Dodge Intrepid or Eagle Vision have completely different shapes and will not fit. For a correct factory appearance, you must use a grille specified for the LHS.
My grille is painted. How do I find one that matches my car?
The best option is to find a used grille in the same color, but this can be difficult. Alternatively, you can buy a used grille in any color (or an unpainted new one) and have it painted to match by a local body shop. You can find your car's paint code on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb to ensure a perfect match.
Do I need to replace a cracked grille?
From a safety and drivability standpoint, no. A cracked grille is a cosmetic issue and will not prevent you from driving the car. [can_i_drive] However, if the grille is so damaged that large pieces are missing, it could reduce protection for your radiator and A/C condenser from road debris.
Why are the mounting tabs so important?
The mounting tabs are the only things holding the grille onto the car. If they are broken, the grille will be loose, vibrate at speed, and could even fall off. A grille with perfect paint but broken tabs is essentially useless without significant repair attempts.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 05017731AA 4601303 4630050 4630179 4756361
Material: Plastic. Finish: Body-colored paint (must be ordered or painted to match vehicle color code).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler LHS:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Grille
- Buying a Used 1994-1997 LHS Grille
- 1. Inspect All Mounting Tabs
- 2. Verify the Style and Color
- 3. Check for Cracks and Structural Damage
- 4. Examine the Finish
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Replacement Overview and Difficulty
- Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions
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