1986 Chrysler Laser problems

General information about Chrysler-Laser
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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.

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Common 1986 Chrysler Laser problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1986 Chrysler Laser, several common problems have been identified:

Lifter Ticking Noise: Some owners have experienced a noticeable lifter tick in the engine, which can be concerning despite the car running well otherwise. This issue may require attention to prevent any potential long-term damage.

Quality Problems: While the Chrysler Laser XT is praised for being a fun and fast car, there have been complaints about various minor quality issues. These problems, although not specified in detail, suggest that the car may have had some build quality concerns that owners have noticed over time.

Engine Performance: The Chrysler Laser XE Turbo, known for its turbocharged engine, has been a favorite among enthusiasts. However, there have been questions regarding the stock horsepower output and the maximum boost that can be safely applied without requiring internal part upgrades like pistons. Additionally, owners have sought advice on aftermarket turbo components, wastegates, blow-off valves, boost controllers, and intercoolers to enhance performance without compromising engine integrity.

Valve Cover Condition: In some cases, owners have observed issues with the valve cover, which may show signs of wear or deterioration. While this may not affect the car's performance significantly, it could be a cosmetic concern that owners might want to address for maintenance purposes.

These reported problems highlight a range of issues that owners of the 1986 Chrysler Laser have faced, from mechanical challenges like fuel pump failures to concerns about engine performance and quality control. Addressing these issues promptly and with proper maintenance can help ensure the longevity and performance of this classic vehicle.

1986 Chrysler Laser car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Seats problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Chrysler Laser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Chrysler Laser complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Chrysler Laser.

2017-08-07

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-07-25
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.

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1998-10-05

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
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.

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1994-07-21

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-07-21
Components: STEERING
Summary: RACK/PINION FAILED. (THIRD VEHICLE ON 472188, 601447) *DH

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1986 Chrysler Laser recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1986 Chrysler Laser.

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.

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.

1986-04-10

Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Summary: BATTERY CAP VENTS MAY BE PARTIALLY OR COMPLETELY BLOCKED WITH PLASTIC FLASHING. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A BUILD UP OF INTERNAL GAS PRESSURE COULD OCCUR WHICH COULD RESULT IN CASE RUPTURE, PARTICULARLY DURING POST CHARGING. SHOULD A PERSON BE IN THE VICINITY OF THE BATTERY WHEN THE CASE RUPTURES, THEY MAY BE INJURED BY THE RELEASED GASES AND/OR ACID.
Remedy: REWORK BATTERIES BY PROBING BOTH VENT ORIFICES TO ELIMINATE ANY VENT OBSTRUCTION.