1990 Dodge Colt

Introduction The 1990 Dodge Colt is a compact car available with two engine options and two transmission options:

• 1.5L I4 (92 horsepower) and 1.8L I4 (113 horsepower)
• 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic

Owners have praised the Colt for its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it has had its fair share of issues.

Engine

• 1.5L I4
  • Head gasket failure: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from exhaust, and coolant leaks. Solution: Replace head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Timing belt failure: Symptoms include a loud squealing noise from the engine. Solution: Replace timing belt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include a rough idle, reduced engine power, and poor fuel economy. Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• 1.8L I4
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Symptoms include oil leaks in the engine compartment. Solution: Replace valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Coolant temperature sensor failure: Symptoms include incorrect temperature readings and engine overheating. Solution: Replace coolant temperature sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+

Transmission

• 5-speed manual
  • Shift linkage problems: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears. Solution: Replace shift linkage. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• 4-speed automatic
  • Slipping gears: Symptoms include delayed or missed shifts. Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering or vibration during acceleration. Solution: Replace torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+

Suspension

• Front struts: Symptoms include excessive noise, vibration, or poor handling. Solution: Replace front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Rear shock absorbers: Symptoms include excessive bouncing or poor handling. Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, electrical system problems, or difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after sitting for a period of time. Solution: Identify and repair or replace the source of the drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
• Ignition coil failure: Symptoms include misfiring, engine stalling, or difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Replace ignition coil. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include corrosion on metal surfaces, especially in areas with high humidity or salt exposure. Solution: Repair or replace affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust
• Headlight failure: Symptoms include dim or inoperative headlights. Solution: Replace headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Power window failure: Symptoms include inability to operate power windows. Solution: Repair or replace power window motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Climate control failure: Symptoms include inability to adjust temperature or airflow. Solution: Repair or replace climate control module or actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary Overall, the 1990 Dodge Colt is a reliable and affordable vehicle with relatively minor issues. The most common problems are related to the engine (head gasket failure, timing belt failure), transmission (slipping gears, torque converter failure), and suspension (front strut failure, rear shock absorber failure). The estimated cost to fix these issues is relatively low, making the Colt a cost-effective option for those seeking a used car.