1989 Chevrolet Spectrum problems

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The Isuzu Gemini is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu from 1974 until 2000. The same basic product was built and/or sold under several other names, sometimes by other General Motors brands, in various markets around the world. While the first generation was of a rear-wheel drive design, later versions were all front-wheel-drive, and the last two generations were no more than badge-engineered Honda Domani until the name was retired in 2000.

First generation (1974)

The first Gemini was the Bellett Gemini, first seen in November 1974. It was based on the third-generation Opel Kadett C on the General Motors T-car platform and came in four-door sedan and two-door coupe body styles. The chassis code was PF50, although the later 1.8-liter versions were called PF60 and the diesels PFD60.

In June 1977 the Gemini received its first, light, facelift. The bigger 1817 cc G180 series engine became available, fitted with rectangular headlights rather than the round units used on the 1600. This model offered 110 PS (81 kW), although this output dropped to 105 PS (77 kW) if an automatic transmission was fitted. In November of the same year the 1600 was updated, now with square headlights and an engine with the I·CAS oxidation catalyst ("Isuzu Clean Air System") which could manage the 1978 emissions standards. One year later the Gemini 1800's engine was also upgraded to meet the 1978 emissions standards. Power remained unchanged, and the automatic now offered the same power as cars with manual transmission. The ignition system was now of a transistor less type, and the trunk lid was now opened remotely (not added to the Gemini 1600 until the end of December). The Gemini Black and 1800 Minx were also added, the Minx with a two-tone paintjob and the Black with black paintwork and more sporty yet comfortable equipment including alloy wheels.

In June 1979, the Gemini received a new slant nose with rectangular headlights and a redesigned rear end. The changes were actually more comprehensive than that, also including a redesigned (longer) engine bay and a wider radiator opening for two new engines added in November (the twin cam G180W and the new 4FB1 diesel) which both required wider radiators for more air for cooling.

In Japan, sports models were available originally with the "ZZ" name. Later, ZZ/L (1980), ZZ/R (1981), ZZ/T, and ZZ/E models were added. These were equipped with an Isuzu G180W 8-valve DOHC 1.8-liter engine, most commonly fuel-injected, producing 130 PS (96 kW) at 6400 rpm. These models also came with a shortened remote throw manual shift lever and optional factory LSD differential. There was also a mildly sporting model of the OHC 1800, called the LS/G.

In October 1982 a version of the diesel with Bosch VE electronic fuel injection was also added; this provided 8% more power than the regular version (66 versus 61 PS) and was fitted to the LT-E and LJ-E models. For those who wanted more, a 73 PS (54 kW) turbo diesel appeared a month later. Also featuring electronic fuel injection, this model also received a standard rear anti-roll bar. Counterintuitively, the two more powerful diesels were never available with the coupé bodywork.

The Gemini was complemented in 1981 by the Giugiaro-designed coupé Isuzu Piazza, based on the Gemini's platform, which was introduced in the United States in 1983 as the Isuzu Impulse and in Australia in 1986 as the Holden Piazza. After the front-wheel-drive second generation Gemini appeared in early 1985, the old rear-wheel drive version nonetheless continued to be built. The coupé model was discontinued, and a slimmed down sedan range (including the ZZ and diesel models) continued to be available. This diminished range was produced until February 1987, when the rear-wheel drive Gemini was laid to rest after 768,537 had been built.

1989 Chevrolet Spectrum

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Common 1989 Chevrolet Spectrum problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1989 Chevrolet Spectrum, common problems reported include:

  1. Muffler Rusting Off Every 2-3 Years:
    Owners have noted that the muffler tends to rust off every 2-3 years, requiring replacement. This issue can lead to noise, emissions problems, and potentially affect the overall performance of the vehicle.
  2. Clutch Cable Snapping:
    Another common problem reported is the clutch cable snapping, which occurred in some instances after several years of use. A snapped clutch cable can render the vehicle undrivable, necessitating immediate repair.
  3. Warped Rotors and Worn Pads:
    Some owners have experienced issues with warped rotors and worn brake pads. This can result in decreased braking performance, vibrations while braking, and potentially pose a safety hazard if not addressed promptly.
  4. Suspension and Shock Absorber Problems:
    Complaints include the need to replace shocks and suspension components due to wear and tear. Issues with the suspension can lead to a bumpy ride, poor handling, and compromised stability on the road.

These common problems reported by owners of the 1989 Chevrolet Spectrum highlight areas where maintenance and potential repairs may be needed to ensure the continued reliability and performance of the vehicle. Regular inspections and timely addressing of these issues can help maintain the car's functionality and safety on the road.

1989 Chevrolet Spectrum engine

What years did Chevy make the spectrum?

The Chevrolet/Geo Spectrum was available as a four-door sedan and as a three-door hatchback, from the 1985 through 1989 model years. For 1988 only, a Spectrum Sport Coupe package, featuring some trim upgrades and these rad decals, could be had on the hatchback.

What did spectrum change their name to?

The purchase was completed on May 18, 2016; Charter had continued to do business as Time Warner Cable in its former markets, but has now re-branded these operations under the Spectrum brand in most markets (a brand of Charter which launched in 2014), though it will continue to use the roadrunner.com email addresses and ...

What kind of car is a spectrum?

The Chevrolet/Geo Spectrum was available as a four-door sedan and as a three-door hatchback, from the 1985 through 1989 model years. For 1988 only, a Spectrum Sport Coupe package, featuring some trim upgrades and these rad decals, could be had on the hatchback.

Why did Spectrum get sued?

A Florida customer of Charter's Spectrum service, Jen Gonzalez, filed suit in a Florida federal court, alleging that the company has continued to bill for services not delivered. The impasse in Charter's dispute with Disney has left customers across the country without ESPN and other Disney-owned channels.

Who made Chevy Spectrum?

Isuzu

The Chevrolet Spectrum was a subcompact sedan and hatchback made by Isuzu. It was renamed Geo Spectrum in 1989 as General Motors introduced the Geo (sub-)brand for Japanese engineered small cars to be sold by Chevrolet dealers.

Who made Chevy engines?

Chevrolet small-block engine (first- and second-generation)

Chevrolet small-block engine
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Also calledChevrolet Turbo-Fire Nascar
Production1954–2003 Flint North (engine block and heads) Saginaw Metal Casting Operations
Layout

Is Chevrolet American or Japanese?

Is Chevy American Made? The Chevy company is owned by GMC (who also owns Buick, Cadillac, and Pontiac), headquartered here, and based out of Michigan. GMC operates facilities in 35 countries, including Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and Japan.

Which Chevy engine is the most reliable?

Over the next century, Chevrolet continued to build its reputation with reliable engines like these.

  • The Gen I 350-cubic-inch small-block V8. ...
  • Gen II LT1 5.7-liter V8. ...
  • Gen III 5.3-liter V8 Vortec 5300. ...
  • Chevrolet 427 cubic inch LS7. ...
  • The Chevrolet Mark IV 396 cubic inch big block. ...
  • Duramax 6.6-liter V8 turbo-diesel.

1989 Chevrolet Spectrum car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Spectrum problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Wheels problems
  • Power train problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Chevrolet Spectrum vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Chevrolet Spectrum complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Chevrolet Spectrum.

2000-10-24

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-10-24
  • VIN: JB1RG5171K7
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL CAME OFF THE VEHICLE CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL RESULTING IN COLLSION WITH THE GUARD RAIL. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT).
1995-07-27

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-07-27
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION CLUTCH FAILURE, DRIVER UNABLE TO SHIFT GEARS AND STOP THE VEHICLE. TT
1995-04-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-04-27
  • VIN: J81RF2174K7
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR SEAT BELT IS STUCK, WILL NOT PULL OUT. THIRD ONE IN VEHICLE TO FAIL. TT
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Other years of Chevrolet Spectrum

chevrolet spectrum 1985 photo
Spectrum 1985
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Spectrum 1986
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Spectrum 1987
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Spectrum 1988
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chevrolet spectrum 1989 photo
Spectrum 1989
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1989 Chevrolet Spectrum photo