1994 Plymouth Laser

Introduction:

The 1994 Plymouth Laser is a sporty coupe that offered a choice of engines and transmissions. The base engine was a 2.0L inline-4 with 135 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 2.4L inline-4 produced 160 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and came with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers appreciate the Laser’s nimble handling and stylish design, but criticize its cramped interior and limited rear visibility.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Blown Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, white smoke from exhaust, loss of coolant
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from valve cover
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pan Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from oil pan
  • Solution: Replace oil pan gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace fuel injector(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Overhaul transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No response from transmission, erratic shifting
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Filter and Fluid Change
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn transmission filter, contaminated fluid
  • Solution: Change transmission filter and fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from front suspension
  • Solution: Replace strut mount(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bounce or sway in rear suspension
  • Solution: Replace shock absorber(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, battery drains quickly
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or grinding noise when starting, engine cranks but won’t start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots or flakes on body panels
  • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Panel Clip Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door panels rattle or come loose
  • Solution: Replace door panel clips
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1994 Plymouth Laser is a sporty and fun-to-drive coupe, but it comes with its fair share of potential issues. Engine problems are relatively common, including head gasket failures and leaks. Transmission issues, such as synchro wear and shift solenoid failure, can also occur. Suspension components, electrical components, and interior parts can also experience problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major expenses, making it important for potential buyers to be aware of the potential costs associated with repairs.