1992 Plymouth Sundance

Introduction: The 1992 Plymouth Sundance is a compact car manufactured by Chrysler. It was available with a choice of two engines and two transmission options. The base engine is a 2.2L inline-4 with 93 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine is a 2.5L V6 with 132 horsepower and 159 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were offered with a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. The Sundance was praised for its fuel economy, affordability, and stylish design, but it was criticized for its lack of power and interior space.

Engine

2.2L Inline-4 Engine

• Engine Knock:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking sound coming from the engine under load
  • Solution: Replace engine bearings and/or crankshaft
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

2.5L V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifter Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loose shifter
  • Solution: Replace shifter linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power during acceleration, slipping gears
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn control arm bushings, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery warning light illuminated, no charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Starter clicks but does not engage, no starting
  • Solution: Replace starter solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks do not engage or open, key does not turn
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate, no response from switch
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges do not work, erratic readings, no lights
  • Solution: Replace instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1992 Plymouth Sundance has a range of issues that range in severity and cost. Some of the more common and severe issues include engine knock, head gasket failure, and transmission slippage. These issues can be expensive to repair, with costs ranging from $500 to over $1,800. However, there are also less severe and less costly issues, such as door lock actuator failure and power window switch failure. Overall, the Sundance has a moderate reliability rating, with some major issues to be aware of before purchasing.