1994 Plymouth Colt

1994 Plymouth Colt

The 1994 Plymouth Colt was a subcompact car available in sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles. The Colt offered two engine options: a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with 88 horsepower and 95 lb-ft of torque and a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with 113 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Colt was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability, but it was criticized for its lack of power and unrefined interior.

Engine

1.5-liter 4-cylinder

• Premature timing chain failure: The timing chain can stretch prematurely, causing it to skip teeth, which can lead to a loss of power or catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and timing chain components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a loss of power, high idle speed, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8-liter 4-cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-speed manual

• Bearing failure: Can lead to gear grinding, difficulty shifting, or complete failure of the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the failed bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed automatic

• TCC solenoid failure: The torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid can fail, causing the transmission to slip or fail to engage.
  • Solution: Replace the TCC solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure: The front or rear struts can fail, causing the vehicle to bounce or handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the failed struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the vehicle to pull to one side while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the failed ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to stop running.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight switch failure: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to stop working.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control failure: The climate control system can fail, causing the heating, ventilation, or air conditioning to not work properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the failed component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1994 Plymouth Colt is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most serious issues include premature timing chain failure, intake manifold gasket failure, and bearing failure in the manual transmission. Other common issues include strut failure, ball joint failure, and various electrical issues. The cost to fix these issues can range from minor to major, depending on the severity of the problem. Overall, the Colt is a good choice for budget-minded consumers who are looking for a fuel-efficient and reliable car, but they should be aware of the potential issues that may arise.