Post
Research the Car Logo

1991 Plymouth Laser

Here is a comprehensive list of issues people are having with the 1991 Plymouth Laser:

Introduction

The 1991 Plymouth Laser was a sporty coupe that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produced 135 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter V6 was also available, which produced 165 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Laser was praised for its sporty handling and stylish design. However, it was also criticized for its lack of interior space and its poor fuel economy.

Engine

2.0-liter Four-Cylinder

  • Blown head gasket: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant leaks. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Timing belt failure: Symptoms include a sudden loss of power and a loud noise from the engine. Solution: Replace the timing belt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Symptoms include a rough idle, poor performance, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Oil leaks: Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and low oil levels. Solution: Repair or replace the leaking component. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location and severity of the leak

2.5-liter V6

  • Head gasket failure: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant leaks. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,200+
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Symptoms include a rough idle, poor performance, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Oil leaks: Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and low oil levels. Solution: Repair or replace the leaking component. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location and severity of the leak

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

  • Clutch failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and a burning smell. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Transmission noise: Symptoms include a whining or grinding noise when driving. Solution: Repair or replace the damaged component. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location and severity of the problem

Four-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and a delayed response when shifting. Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

  • Front strut failure: Symptoms include a clunking noise when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, and a decrease in handling performance. Solution: Replace the front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Rear shock failure: Symptoms include a bouncing or floating sensation when driving over bumps, decreased handling performance, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the rear shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

  • Alternator failure: Symptoms include a flickering or dimming dashboard lights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Starter failure: Symptoms include a clicking noise when starting the vehicle, difficulty starting the vehicle, or a no-start condition. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after the vehicle has been sitting for a period of time. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain

Exterior

  • Rust: Symptoms include bubbling or peeling paint, rust spots, and holes in the body panels. Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
  • Headlight failure: Symptoms include dim or inoperative headlights. Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or repair the wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Interior

  • Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks or fading on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Door panel damage: Symptoms include broken or missing door panels. Solution: Replace the door panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Seat upholstery wear: Symptoms include torn or stained seat upholstery. Solution: Repair or replace the seat upholstery. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage

Summary

The 1991 Plymouth Laser is a reliable and sporty coupe that offers a variety of engine and transmission options. However, it is important to be aware of the potential issues that can affect this vehicle. The most common issues include engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and interior problems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.