1990 Plymouth Grand Voyager

Introduction:

The 1990 Plymouth Grand Voyager was a versatile minivan offering a spacious interior and various engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.5L inline-four, while the optional engine was a robust 3.0L V6. Transmission choices included a 3-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. The Grand Voyager received praise for its practicality, but some owners reported encountering various issues over time.

Engine

2.5L Inline-Four

• Blown Head Gasket:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks coolant, overheating engine, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power, vacuum leaks
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

3.0L V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure, no start
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and associated components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $900 - $1,500
• Transmission Cooler Lines Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace rusted transmission cooler lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, car jerks or hesitates
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500

5-Speed Manual

• Grinding When Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gear grinding noise when shifting
  • Solution: Replace worn synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bounce, clunking noise over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery does not charge, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace window switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

Exterior

• Rust on Frame and Body Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible corrosion on metal surfaces
  • Solution: Sand and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Liftgate Struts Weak or Broken:
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate does not open or close smoothly, difficult to hold open
  • Solution: Replace liftgate struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Interior

• HVAC System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat or AC, blower motor not working
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Instrument Panel Cluster Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, lights not illuminating
  • Solution: Replace instrument panel cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Summary

The 1990 Plymouth Grand Voyager was a reliable minivan with some notable issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The cost of repairs can be significant, so it is important to consider the potential financial implications of any known problems before purchasing one.