1990 Plymouth Laser

About the 1990 Plymouth Laser

The 1990 Plymouth Laser was a sporty coupe that offered a range of engine and transmission options. It featured a sleek design, handling, torque, and affordability. However, it was criticized for its lack of rear-seat space, poor fuel economy, and dated interior.

Engine

2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: Symptoms include engine stalling, erratic idling, and poor acceleration. Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and poor engine performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Head Gasket Failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Timing Belt Failure: Symptoms include engine stalling, no-start condition, and bent valves or engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing belt and water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Symptoms include engine stalling, no-start condition, and trouble codes. Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Wear: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and a crunchy feeling. Solution: Replace the synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: Symptoms include a spongy clutch pedal and difficulty shifting gears. Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure: Symptoms include a weak clutch pedal and difficulty shifting gears. Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure: Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed shifting, and no shifting. Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Transmission Fluid Leak: Symptoms include fluid spots under the vehicle and slipping or delayed shifting. Solution: Repair or replace the leaking component. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
• Transmission Failure: Symptoms include no forward or reverse gears, slipping gears, and grinding noises. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Strut Wear: Symptoms include a rough ride, difficulty controlling the vehicle, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Shock Absorber Failure: Symptoms include a bouncy ride, poor handling, and bottoming out over bumps. Solution: Replace the shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Control Arm Bushing Wear: Symptoms include clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, and excessive tire wear. Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Symptoms include a dead battery and flickering lights. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter Failure: Symptoms include a no-start condition and grinding noises. Solution: Replace the starter motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Ignition Switch Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle and electrical issues. Solution: Replace the ignition switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Battery Failure: Symptoms include a dead battery and slow cranking. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Grounding Issues: Symptoms include electrical problems such as flickering lights, non-functioning components, and engine performance issues. Solution: Inspect and clean the grounding points. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure: Symptoms include difficulty locking and unlocking the doors. Solution: Replace the door lock actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Window Switch Failure: Symptoms include non-functioning windows. Solution: Replace the window switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
• Body Rust: Symptoms include corrosion on the body panels and undercarriage. Solution: Rust repair or replacement of rusted components. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity and location
• Headlight Switch Failure: Symptoms include non-functioning headlights or other lighting issues. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure: Symptoms include non-functioning power windows. Solution: Replace the power window motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Cruise Control Failure: Symptoms include non-functioning cruise control. Solution: Replace the cruise control module or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Instrument Cluster Failure: Symptoms include non-functioning gauges or warning lights. Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 1990 Plymouth Laser has some common issues that can be costly to repair, such as head gasket failure and transmission failure. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the Laser is a reliable and affordable vehicle with a sporty design and handling.