2000 Plymouth Breeze

The 2000 Plymouth Breeze was a compact sedan offered as a more budget-friendly alternative to its Chrysler and Dodge counterparts. It came standard with a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 132 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque was also available, exclusively with the 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciated the Breeze for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Common complaints included underwhelming performance from the base engine, uninspired styling, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling/Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, particularly at idle or when slowing down. Rough idle can also be present.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve. Check for vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from the valve cover gasket or the oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or the oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (applies to both engine options)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or erratic shifting, especially between gears. Slipping can also occur, leading to delayed acceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, the transmission may require repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for fluid flush, $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: The ride quality deteriorates, becoming bouncy or unstable. Excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, often one at a time.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may malfunction or stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust commonly forms on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and begins to sag.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Plymouth Breeze, while an affordable and practical car, is prone to certain common issues due to its age and design. Engine issues can range from minor inconveniences like rough idling to more significant problems like oil leaks. Transmission problems can be costly to repair. Suspension wear is typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Electrical and interior issues, such as power window failure and headliner sagging, are also relatively common. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.