1998 Dodge Colt vista problems
The Dodge Colt is a subcompact car that was manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by Dodge for model years 1971 to 1994 as captive imports. Rebadged variants include the Plymouth Champ and Plymouth Colt, both were marketed by Plymouth.
The Colt was initially a rebadged variant of the rear-wheel drive Galant and Lancer families before shifting to the smaller front-wheel drive Mitsubishi Mirage subcompacts in 1979.
First generation (1971–1973)
Introduced in 1970 as a 1971 model, the first generation Dodge Colt was a federalized first-generation Mitsubishi Colt Galant. Available as a 2-door pillared coupe, 2-door hardtop coupe, 4-door sedan, and 5-door wagon, the Colt had a 1,597 cc (97.5 cu in) 4-cylinder engine. The unibody layout was traditional, front engine and rear-wheel drive with MacPherson struts in front and a live rear axle. Standard transmission was a 4-speed manual, with a 3-speed automatic being an option. The engine was initially rated for 100 hp (75 kW), but dropped to 83 hp (62 kW) in 1972 when manufacturers revised the method of measuring horsepower from gross to SAE net. For 1973, a GT hardtop coupe model was added featuring rally stripes, sport wheels, and a center console amongst other features. The Dodge Colt was Chrysler's response to the AMC Gremlin, Ford Pinto, and Chevrolet Vega. As a captive import from Mitsubishi, the Colt also competed directly with other Japanese imports, such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Datsun 1200.
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Common 1998 Dodge Colt vista problems
The Dodge Colt Vista, introduced in 1983, was a captive import from Mitsubishi, sharing many components and design features with the Japanese automaker's vehicles.
- Engine Issues: The Colt Vista's 2.0-liter inline-four engine, which produced 96 horsepower, is known to have issues with head gaskets, timing belts, and water pumps. These problems can lead to overheating, decreased performance, and even engine failure if not addressed promptly.
- Transmission Troubles: The automatic transmission in the Colt Vista has been reported to have issues with slipping, jerking, and delayed engagement. These problems can be caused by worn-out transmission bands, a faulty torque converter, or low transmission fluid levels. In some cases, these issues may require a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Suspension and Steering Concerns: The Colt Vista's suspension and steering systems have been reported to have issues with worn-out bushings, ball joints, and tie rods. These problems can lead to poor handling, excessive vibration, and uneven tire wear. In some cases, these issues may require replacement of the affected components to restore proper vehicle function.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: The Colt Vista's electrical system, including the wiring, alternator, and battery, has been reported to have issues with poor connections, corrosion, and component failure. These problems can lead to intermittent electrical issues, such as flickering lights, non-functioning accessories, and difficulty starting the vehicle. In some cases, these issues may require replacement of the affected components or a complete electrical system overhaul.
- Heating and Air Conditioning System Failures: The Colt Vista's heating and air conditioning system has been reported to have issues with leaks, compressor failure, and refrigerant loss. These problems can lead to poor climate control performance, increased cabin noise, and decreased overall vehicle comfort. In some cases, these issues may require replacement of the affected components or a complete system overhaul.
- Rust and Corrosion: The Colt Vista, like many vehicles of its era, is susceptible to rust and corrosion, particularly in areas such as the wheel wells, rocker panels, and door sills. This can lead to structural weakness, decreased vehicle safety, and difficulty passing inspections or emissions tests. In some cases, extensive rust and corrosion may require significant repairs or even vehicle replacement.
- Interior Wear and Tear: The Colt Vista's interior, while often praised for its versatility and functionality, is known to suffer from wear and tear over time. This can include issues with torn or worn-out upholstery, cracked or faded dashboard materials, and malfunctioning interior accessories. In some cases, these issues may require replacement of the affected components or a complete interior overhaul.
In summary, the Dodge Colt Vista has been reported to have a number of common problems, including engine issues, transmission troubles, suspension and steering concerns, electrical system malfunctions, heating and air conditioning system failures, rust and corrosion, and interior wear and tear. These issues can significantly impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall value, and may require significant repairs or maintenance to address.
Is Dodge Colt same as Mitsubishi?
The Dodge Colt nameplate was applied to several Mitsubishi models. In Japan, they were known as Galants, Mirages, and Lancers. In fact, the car for sale on eBay would have been sold as a Lancer in Japan and has the same lineage as the turbo Lancer Evolutions that arrived in the US in the 2000s.
What happened to the Dodge Colt?
The Colt sedan was not sold in the United States for the sixth generation (though it was sold in Canada), as it would be replaced by the Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance liftbacks in the Dodge/Plymouth lineup for 1989. The sedan bodywork, however, was available to American consumers as an Eagle Summit.
How much horsepower does a 1987 Dodge Colt have?
68-hp
1987 Dodge Colt Reviews, Pricing & Specs
A GTS hatchback and sedan were other options for those craving a little more kick to their commute. Base engine was a 1.5-liter, 68-hp I4, while the wagon featured a 2.0-liter, 88-hp I4.
Is a Mitsubishi Colt reliable?
Reliable workhorse
Over the 6 + years I have used it I have had no major problems just the usual wear and tear items, brake pads, exhaust. The only issue I have had was with the gear stick becoming very stiff to move - solved by greasing the linkage.
Is Dodge Colt same as Mitsubishi?
The Dodge Colt nameplate was applied to several Mitsubishi models. In Japan, they were known as Galants, Mirages, and Lancers. In fact, the car for sale on eBay would have been sold as a Lancer in Japan and has the same lineage as the turbo Lancer Evolutions that arrived in the US in the 2000s.
What happened to the Dodge Colt?
The Colt sedan was not sold in the United States for the sixth generation (though it was sold in Canada), as it would be replaced by the Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance liftbacks in the Dodge/Plymouth lineup for 1989. The sedan bodywork, however, was available to American consumers as an Eagle Summit.
How much horsepower does a 1987 Dodge Colt have?
68-hp
1987 Dodge Colt Reviews, Pricing & Specs
A GTS hatchback and sedan were other options for those craving a little more kick to their commute. Base engine was a 1.5-liter, 68-hp I4, while the wagon featured a 2.0-liter, 88-hp I4.
Is a Mitsubishi Colt a reliable car?
It's super reliable, cheap to run, and it very nippy around town! The engine runs smoothly, and if you get the cz2 model you even get cruise control and reversing sensors. Engine doesn't have a timing belt so you don't have to worry about a £500 bill every 50k miles!
1998 Dodge Colt vista car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Colt vista problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Dodge Colt vista vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Dodge Colt vista complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Dodge Colt vista.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-04
- VIN: JP3CB20C1WZ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AS DOOR WAS BEING SHUT, THE CABLE POPPED OUT OF MOTORIZED SHOULDER BELT TRACKING DEVICE.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Dodge Colt vista problems:
1G - 1989 Colt 4wd wagon - what am I getting myself into? | Page 2 ...
Jul 26, 2014 ... 1992 Plymouth Colt Vista Wagon ... Whenever I run into a problem like this I just pull the engine and swap it to a 4G63T. ... Had a 1982 Dodge Colt ...
1987 Dodge Colt Vista : r/regularcarreviews
Jan 13, 2021 ... 1987 Dodge Colt Vista ... So he drove it around with the blown turbo until the engine burned more oil than gas. ... 98 upvotes · 38 comments. r/ ...
Q&A: 1990 Dodge Colt Vista Car Short - Replaced? | JustAnswer
May 26, 2008 ... Meaning the plug only fires once when key is released from starting. Think it might be a computer problem or coil?
1992 Mitsubishi Galant VR-4: Regular Car Reviews : r/cars
Jan 25, 2021 ... 1983–1992 Dodge Colt Vista. 1983–1998 ... common in my area). Upvote 3. Downvote Share ... 1998 civic dx Hatchback reliability? r/Honda ...
1 have a 1993 Plymouth colt visa automatic that shifts fine when its ...
Mar 23, 2010 ... Welcome to Just Answer Chrysler my name is Mark. So, this is the exact same problem with both the old..... and new "used" transmissions??
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