Chrysler Laser problems

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The Plymouth Laser is a two-door 2+2 sports coupe sold by Plymouth from 1989 until 1994. The Laser and its siblings, the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon, were the first vehicles produced under the newly formed Diamond-Star Motors, a joint-venture between the Chrysler Corporation and the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

Overview

Introduced as "the first Plymouth of the '90s" in advertising, the Plymouth Laser debuted in January 1989 as a 1990 model. The company produced a Chrysler Laser model from 1984 to 1986. The 2-door hatchback was based on the Dodge Daytona model prior to the name badge moving, to the Plymouth brand. Commercials for the 1990 Laser featured R&B singer Tina Turner who appeared in a series of 1990 promotional ads for Plymouth. With three available engines, two transmission offerings, and sporty "aero" styling, the Laser was the most performance-oriented Plymouth since the Barracuda, Duster, and Road Runner muscle cars of the 1970s.

Despite its close resemblance to its Mitsubishi and Eagle siblings, it has several unique styling cues intended to set it apart from the other two. Apart from badging, Lasers sport a race-inspired look, with a plastic panel in the place of a grille, a full rear light-bar, a bulge on the hood for 2.0 L engine models (not necessarily turbocharged), and available stylish "lace" patterned alloy wheels. Rallye Sport (RS), models are set apart from the base models by their black roof with body-colored targa band, power steering, lower bodyside accent striping, and dual power mirrors, as well as an array of options not available on base Lasers.

Base model Lasers carry a 92 hp (69 kW) 1.8 L four-cylinder engine, whereas a 135 hp (101 kW), 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder was optional with the Laser RS. The top-of-the-line RS Turbo came equipped with a 2.0 L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rated at 195 hp (145 kW). A 5-speed manual transmission was standard. A 4-speed automatic was optional, except with the turbocharged engine, which could only be ordered with the manual transmission until 1991 models debuted.

photo of Chrysler Laser car production

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Chrysler Laser model years

chrysler laser 1986 photo
Laser 1986
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chrysler laser 1985 photo
Laser 1985
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Common Chrysler Laser problems

The Chrysler Laser, produced in the 1980s, was a K-car-based vehicle that aimed to compete with the futuristic Japanese cars of the time. While the car was praised for its design and technology, such as its digital dash and computerized gadgetry, it also had some common problems reported by its owners.

One of the most frequently mentioned issues was related to the fuel pump. A 1984 Chrysler Laser EX 2.2 turbo owner reported that the fuel pump had gone bad three times since they had owned the car, and the brand new one was not turning on with the key.

Another issue that was reported was related to the digital dashboard. In one instance, a 1985 Chrysler Laser's odometer, mileage, and fuel gauge stopped lighting up after the car had been parked for three years. The owner was unsure if this was a fuse or wiring problem and was seeking advice on how to fix it.

In addition to these issues, some owners reported having problems with the lifters. A 1986 Chrysler Laser base owner mentioned that they had a lifter tick, which they believed was causing a problem, but they were unsure if that was the cause of their issue.

Overall, while the Chrysler Laser was a technologically advanced car for its time, it had some common problems that affected its reliability. The fuel pump and digital dashboard were the most frequently reported issues, which could impact the car's drivability and functionality.

Chrysler Laser

Percentage distribution of complaints by Chrysler Laser years

We have researched Chrysler problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chrysler Laser cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Chrysler Laser model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chrysler Laser model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chrysler Laser years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chrysler Laser car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chrysler Laser , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Seats problems
  • Steering problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chrysler Laser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Laser model years

There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chrysler Laser . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chrysler Laser vehicles.

List of Chrysler Laser complaints

Chrysler Laser 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-25
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-07
  • VIN: 1C3BA54E6GG
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: SEAT FRAME DRIVERS SIDE FRONT LEFT CORNER HAS BROKEN CAUSING SEAT TO BECOME LOOSE AND INSECURE. VEHICLE FAILED STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. NOTE: THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED IN 1989 FOR VEHICLES BUILT IN 1985 FOR SAME PROBLEM.1985 CHRYSLER LASER RECALL - #89V011000.
Chrysler Laser 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 1998-10-05
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1C3BA54E2GG
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: ENGINE FIRE BELIEVED TO BE THE RESULT OF USING RECALLED FUEL INJECTOR HOSES. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE AND BOTH TIME IT IS BELIEVED RECALLED PART WERE USED FOR REPAIR.
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 1998-05-19
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVER SIDE POWER SEAT OUTBOARD TRACK FAILED,
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1997-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 1997-08-25
  • VIN: 1C38A44D1FG
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: HEARD A RATTLING SOUND FROM REAR OF VEHICLE WHEVEVER HITTING A SMALL BUMP. THE NOISE WAS CAUSED BY A BROKEN STEEL TUBE INSIDE OF REAR AXLE. *AK
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 1997-06-19
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FAULTY FUEL REGULATOR HOSE FAILED AFTER RECALL REPAIR RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE.
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 1997-06-19
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: VEHICLE FIRE, AFTER RECALL WORK WAS COMPLETED ON THE FAULTY FUEL REGULATOR HOSE.
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 1997-05-05
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: DUE TO A FAULTY REGULATOR HOSE, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE.
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
  • Date Complaint: 1997-05-05
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: ENGINE FIRE AFTER FUEL REGULATOR RECALL REPAIR, CONSUMER BELIEVES FIRE MAY BE RELATED TO RECALL AS IT WAS REPORTED BY INVESTIGATORS THAT FIRE STARTED BETWEEN BACK OF ENGINE AND FIREWALL. (85V-010)
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1995-03-30
  • Date Complaint: 1995-03-30
  • VIN: 1C3BA44E7FG
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: WRONG WHEEL AND TIRE WAS PUT IN LUGGAGE SAVER AT FACTORY, WHEEL ONLY DESIGNED WITH FOUR LUG HOLES. *SKD
Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-28
  • Date Complaint: 1995-03-07
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1C3BA54E9FG
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: AFTER DRIVING CAR WAS PARK AND CAUGHT ON FIRE . TT
Chrysler Laser 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 1994-07-21
  • Date Complaint: 1994-07-21
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: RACK/PINION FAILED. (THIRD VEHICLE ON 472188, 601447) *DH

Latest 5 recalls Chrysler Laser

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the Chrysler Laser.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Report Received Date: 2008-04-14
  • Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
  • Consequence: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
  • Model: Chrysler Laser 1986
  • Report Received Date: 2008-04-14
  • Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
  • Consequence: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
  • Model: Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Report Received Date: 1989-01-31
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVERS SEAT FRAME MAY EXPERIENCE FATIGUE FAILURE AT ONE (FRONT/OUTBOARD) OF ITS FOUR ATTACHMENTS.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN SOME FORWARD, BACKWARD OR LATERALMOVEMENT OF SEAT, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLEWHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT
  • Remedy: REPLACE DRIVERS SEAT FRAME WITH A STRENGHTENED VERSION; ALSO, REINFORCE POWER ADJUSTER FRONT CROSSMEMBER TO INCREASE RIGIDITY OF SEAT ATTACHMENT SYSTEM.
  • Model: Chrysler Laser 1985
  • Report Received Date: 1988-07-01
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR IN LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OPERATION AT CONNECTIONS OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUEL SUPPLY HOSE TO THE PRESSURE REGULATOR AND TO THE FUEL RAIL.
  • Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, FUEL LEAKAGE COULDRESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: RELOCATE PRESSURE REGULATOR; REPLACE FUEL SUPPLY WITH FORMED HOSE WITH REVISED ROUTING CONFIGURATION TO ENSURE SEALING INTEGRITY.
  • Model: Chrysler Laser 1986
  • Report Received Date: 1988-07-01
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR IN LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OPERATION AT CONNECTIONS OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUEL SUPPLY HOSE TO THE PRESSURE REGULATOR AND TO THE FUEL RAIL.
  • Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, FUEL LEAKAGE COULDRESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: RELOCATE PRESSURE REGULATOR; REPLACE FUEL SUPPLY WITH FORMED HOSE WITH REVISED ROUTING CONFIGURATION TO ENSURE SEALING INTEGRITY.

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Chrysler Laser photo