1996 Plymouth Breeze

Introduction The 1996 Plymouth Breeze was a midsize sedan that was offered with three engine options: a 2.0L SOHC Inline-4, a 2.4L SOHC Inline-4, and a 2.5L DOHC V6. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Breeze was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price point. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy.

Engine 2.0L SOHC Inline-4

• Blown Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L SOHC Inline-4

• No Issues Found

2.5L DOHC V6

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of power, engine rattling or ticking, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and associated components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power during acceleration
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, uneven tire wear, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Axle Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise from rear of vehicle, vibration
  • Solution: Replace axle bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Test and repair electrical system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors
  • Solution: Repair or replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower not working, temperature control not functioning
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working, difficulty operating windows
  • Solution: Repair or replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary Overall, the 1996 Plymouth Breeze has some common issues, but most are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. The most severe issue is the timing belt failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed promptly. The good news is that this issue is relatively rare. The Breeze’s electrical and interior components are generally reliable, but some issues may arise with door locks, HVAC, and power windows. The suspension and exterior are also prone to some problems, but these are typically easy to diagnose and fix.