1987 Dodge Colt problems

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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.

1987 Dodge Colt

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Common 1987 Dodge Colt problems

The Dodge Colt, produced from 1971 to 1994, is known for its reliability and affordability. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. This article will focus on the third generation of the Dodge Colt, produced from 1983 to 1988, and some of the most common issues reported by owners.

Engine-Related Issues

One of the most common issues reported with the third generation Dodge Colt is related to the engine oil pump. If not properly maintained, the oil pump could fail and cause significant engine damage. Some owners also reported issues with the ignition system and electrical components.

For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista lost all compression while driving, leading them to believe that the timing belt had broken or slipped. However, upon further inspection, they found that the timing belt was intact but may have slipped.

Another owner reported that their 1988 Dodge Colt wagon's clutch failed soon after purchasing the vehicle, but the upside was that the car was easy to match revs and shift without a clutch.

Transmission and Clutch Problems

Some owners of the third generation Dodge Colt reported issues with the clutch and transmission. For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista's clutch failed, but the car was still drivable without it.

Additionally, some owners reported problems with the transmission slipping and gear shifting. For example, one owner reported that their 1992 Dodge Colt GL stalled when the next transmission image was engaged, and they were unsure of the cause.

Electrical and Computer Issues

Electrical issues were also common in the third generation Dodge Colt. Some owners reported problems with the alternator and battery, as well as faulty wiring and grounding problems.

For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista's alternator went out and produced 17-18 volts, leading to the replacement of the alternator and all four halogen headlights. However, the new headlights did not work, and the owner was unsure of the cause.

Suspension and Steering Issues

Suspension and steering issues were also common in the third generation Dodge Colt. Some owners reported problems with worn-out shocks and struts, misaligned wheels, and steering component failures.

For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista's shocks and struts were worn out, leading to a rough ride and poor handling.

Braking and Safety Issues

Braking problems were also reported by some owners of the third generation Dodge Colt. Some reported issues with worn-out brake pads and rotors, brake fluid leaks, and master cylinder failures.

For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista's brake pads and rotors were worn out, leading to a decrease in braking performance.

Fuel System Issues

Fuel system issues were also common in the third generation Dodge Colt. Some owners reported problems with the fuel pump and injector failures, fuel filter and pressure regulator problems, and carburetor and intake manifold issues.

For example, one owner reported that their 1993 Dodge Colt Vista's mechanical fuel pump was not working properly, causing the car to die as soon as it burned the initial fuel.

Exhaust System Issues

Exhaust system issues were also reported by some owners of the third generation Dodge Colt. Some reported problems with the catalytic converter and muffler problems, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve issues, and oxygen sensor and exhaust manifold failures.

For example, one owner reported that their 1987 Colt Vista's catalytic converter and muffler were not working properly, leading to a decrease in performance and an increase in emissions.

Interior and Exterior Issues

Interior and exterior issues were also common in the third generation Dodge Colt. Some owners reported problems with upholstery and interior component wear, window and door mechanism problems, and paint and body damage concerns.

For example, one owner reported that the hubcaps on their 1988 Dodge Colt wagon were missing, and the interior looked remarkably clean but had a few little imperfections.

In conclusion, the third generation Dodge Colt, produced from 1983 to 1988, was known for its reliability and affordability. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of common problems. Engine-related issues, transmission and clutch problems, electrical and computer issues, suspension and steering issues, braking and safety issues, fuel system issues, exhaust system issues, and interior and exterior issues were all reported by owners of the third generation Dodge Colt. Regular maintenance and repairs were necessary to keep these vehicles running smoothly, and owners who stayed on top of these issues could enjoy reliable and safe driving for years to come.

1987 Dodge Colt engine

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.

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 1.5 Turbo Colt have?

The performance specification 1.5 T was based on the 4G15 block, with a Turbo and Intercooler to aid power (up to 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) at 6000 rpm and 155 lb⋅ft (210 N⋅m) torque at 3500 rpm).

What makes a Dodge a Super Bee?

The Dodge Super Bee is a muscle car that was manufactured by the Dodge brand and was originally produced from 1968 to 1971. It stood out for its attractive design, peppy engine, and agreeable price range.

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.

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.

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 is the sister car of the Dodge Colt?

The Dodge Colt had a twin sister in the Plymouth Colt and siblings in the Mitsubishi Mirage and Eagle Summit.

1987 Dodge Colt car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Seat belts problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Power train problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Dodge Colt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1987 Dodge Colt

The NHTSA has received 44 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Dodge Colt. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1987 Dodge Colt vehicles.

2003-12-02

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-10-10
  • VIN: JP3A46K0HU0
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35-40 MPH WHEN A 5" CHUNK OF TREAD CAME OFF THE TIRE AND EXPOSED THE STEEL BELTS IN THE TIRE. THE AIR STARTED TO LEAK OUT. *AK SOME TIME AFTER THE TREAD SEPARATED THE TIRE STARTED TO LOSE AIR. THE TREAD WEAR PATTERN INDICATED THAT THE TIRE MAY HAVE BEEN "SOMEWHAT" UNDER-INFLATED, BUT NOT SERIOUSLY SO AND NOT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. THE TIRE DEALER REFUSED TO ASSIST THE CONSUMER WITH THE PROBLEM. THE TIRE MODEL HAD BEEN DISCONTINUED. (CORDOVAN GRAND PRIX RADIAL G/T) *SCC *JB
2001-04-06

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-06-12
  • VIN: JB3BG39D5HZ
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: HELLO!I PURCHASED THIS 1987 DODGE COLT VISTA WAGON USED IN 1999 AND INITIALLY WHEN PURCHASED THE AUTO/TRANSMISSION FLOATED OUT OF GEAR IN A BUSY AREA AND WOULD NOT MOVE,UNTIL I PLAYED WITH THE LEVER,AND FINALLY IT JUMPED INTO GEAR.IT HAPPENS AT VARIOUS TIMES AND I MUST SIT IN CAR AT AN IDLE AT LEAST 5MINUTES BEFORE TRANSMISSION WILL WORK!SECOND PROBLEM IS MANIFOLD IS LEAKING AND ALSO MOTOR OIL IS LEAKING UNTO MANIFOLD AND CAUSES A LOT OF SMOKE UNDER ENGINE AND OUT THE EXHAUST.I UNDERSTAND THERE ARE RECALLS ALREADY ON SOME MODELS OF THE 1987 DODGE COLT VISTA SW ACCORDING TO ALLDATA.COM.THE WHOLE SYSTEM MUST BE REPLACED(MANIFOLD AND EXHAUST) AND THE TRANSMISSION SHOULD BE REPAIRED BECAUSE THE CAR WILL FLOAT OUT OF CAR ANYWHERE!!THE EMMISION IS VERY BAD AT THIS TIME DO TO SMOKE FROM CAR!*AK
2000-02-23

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-02-01
  • VIN: JB3BA36KXHU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CRACKED EXHAUST MANIFOLD LEAKS FUMES INSIDE VEHICLE THROUGH VENTS CAUSING SAFETY HAZARD OF CARBON MONOXIDE FOR THOSE INSIDE VEHICLE. *AK
1999-10-29

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITIONER PROBLEMS. MJS
1999-10-29

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE CONTINUALLY SMOKES AND DID NOT PASS INSPECTION. MJS
1999-10-29

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITIONER PROBLEMS. MJS
1999-10-29

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE CONTINUALLY SMOKES AND DID NOT PASS INSPECTION. MJS
1999-10-29

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITIONER PROBLEMS. MJS
1999-10-29

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE CONTINUALLY SMOKES AND DID NOT PASS INSPECTION. MJS
1999-04-19

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS IN A LIGHT REAR END ACCIDENT, AND AFTER CONTINUOUS DRIVING REAR AXLE BROKE. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1997-08-26

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1P3BD46K8H1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE AFTER RECALL REPAIRS.
1997-08-21

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-01-31
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: RECALL REPAIR NOT PERFORMED ON FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES DUE TO LACK OF PARTS.
1997-08-20

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-08-20
  • VIN: JB3BA26K3HU
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PLASTIC IN REAR AND CENTER SEAT BELT BUCKLE HAD DEGRADED. THIS VARIATION IS CAUSED BY POSSIBLE CONTACT OF SUN RAYS. *AK
1997-05-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL PUMP LEAK.
1997-05-01

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: SPEEDOMETER INOPERATIVE.
1997-05-01

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: GAS GAUGE INOPERATIVE.
1997-05-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DISTRIBUTOR CAP FAILED.
1997-05-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-01-16
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MAIN OIL SEAL FAILED.
1997-05-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VALVE COVER GASKET FAILED.
1997-05-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MUFFLER FAILED.
1997-05-01

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-02-27
  • VIN: JB3BA46K7HU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED.
1997-02-04

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: HOLE IN EXHAUST PIPE.
1996-12-30

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-12-19
  • VIN: JB3BA36K0H4
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLES INOPERATIVE
1996-12-30

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-12-30
  • VIN: JB3BA36K0H4
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: REAR DEFROSTER SWITCH BROKE.
1996-09-23

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-21
  • VIN: JB3BA26K9HU
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR SEAT BELT FAILED.

1987 Dodge Colt recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1987 Dodge Colt.

1995-05-24
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
  • Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1987 Dodge Colt problems:

1987 Colt Vista problems | DSMtuners.com
1987 Colt Vista problems | DSMtuners.com
https://www.dsmtuners.com/threads/1987-colt-vista-problems.483404/

Aug 10, 2014 ... So i picked up this 87 Colt Vista 4x4 for 1k, really nice inside and almost flawless on the outside. Problem is, after a month of so of ...

1987 DODGE RAIDER ..what are all the major issues? : r/4x4
1987 DODGE RAIDER ..what are all the major issues? : r/4x4
https://www.reddit.com/r/4x4/comments/1927gto/1987_dodge_raider_what_are_all_the_major_issues/

Jan 9, 2024 ... ... Chrysler models. The Colt, The 2nd gen Challenger was a Galant, The Arrow, Dodge D50, Later the Stealth was a 3000GT, plus all the DSM cars.

Dodge Colt Vista Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Dodge Colt Vista Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/dodge/colt_vista/

Apr 8, 2011 ... ... frequent maintenance problems. I am overhauling an '87 Vista, and have learned a great deal from Mike's Automotive Services in Sequim, WA.

1987 Dodge Colt Vista : r/regularcarreviews
1987 Dodge Colt Vista : r/regularcarreviews
https://www.reddit.com/r/regularcarreviews/comments/kwftuz/1987_dodge_colt_vista/

Jan 13, 2021 ... 380 votes, 42 comments. 88K subscribers in the regularcarreviews community. This is a subreddit for fans of Regular Car Reviews on Youtube.

CC Outtake: 1987(ish) Dodge Colt - Last One On the Streets Here ...
CC Outtake: 1987(ish) Dodge Colt - Last One On the Streets Here ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-outtake/cc-outtake-1985-dodge-colt-last-one-on-the-streets-here/

Nov 24, 2018 ... Sorry to hear that the Sigma was a problem. To me, the '78-'81 Sigma-version of the Colt wagon was among the best looking of any Mitsu-Dodge. I ...

Other years of Dodge Colt

dodge colt 1988 photo
Colt 1988
Dodge

27

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dodge colt 1989 photo
Colt 1989
Dodge

37

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dodge colt 1990 photo
Colt 1990
Dodge

14

1

1

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dodge colt 1991 photo
Colt 1991
Dodge

22

1

5

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dodge colt 1992 photo
Colt 1992
Dodge

15

2

6

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dodge colt 1993 photo
Colt 1993
Dodge

120

2

0

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  • 1

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