1990 Plymouth Colt

Introduction

The 1990 Plymouth Colt is a compact car available with various engine and transmission options. It offers a well-balanced combination of performance and fuel economy. However, certain issues have been reported across multiple components.

Engine

1.3L SOHC 8-Valve

• Intake Valve Sticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, and stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of intake valves and valve guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power, and potential catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing belt and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Oil Leaking from Oil Pan
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks underneath the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

1.5L SOHC 12-Valve

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of head gasket and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting or maintaining engine speed, stalling, or loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacement of fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle hesitates or struggles to engage gears, resulting in delayed acceleration or loss of power.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replacement of transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, slipping, or burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Transmission Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises coming from the transmission, especially during gear changes.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of transmission components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts result in reduced handling, stability, and increased tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, or electrical system failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent engine misfiring or difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Antenna Mast Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken antenna mast affects radio reception.
  • Solution: Replacement of antenna mast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with heating, ventilation, or air conditioning.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or fading on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Summary

The 1990 Plymouth Colt generally has a fair reliability rating. However, several notable issues affect various components. While most issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, some can be costly. Owners should be aware of potential timing belt failures and head gasket issues, which can result in severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.