1989 Dodge Colt 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 1989 Dodge Colt problems
The 1989 Dodge Colt, a rebranded Mitsubishi Chariot, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequent issues is related to the carburetor and ignition system, which were equipped with some rudimentary electronics that are prone to failure.
Another common problem with the 1989 Dodge Colt is the braking system. Some owners have reported a distinct grinding under hard braking, which can be a sign of worn-out brake components or a more serious issue with the brake system. This can lead to inconvenience and frustration for Colt owners seeking timely repairs.
Parts availability and inventory are also significant issues for 1989 Dodge Colt owners. Due to the car's status as a captive import, parts are not always readily available, and technicians may not have extensive experience working on these vehicles.
The 1989 Dodge Colt's engine is another source of frustration for some owners. The 2.0 SOHC four-cylinder engine, which produces 88 or 98 horsepower, is known for being underpowered, especially when hauling heavy loads or driving up steep hills.
Despite these issues, the 1989 Dodge Colt has its strengths, such as a spacious interior and a high-quality stereo system. However, for those considering purchasing a 1989 Dodge Colt, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and to budget accordingly for potential repairs and maintenance costs.
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.
Who manufactured the Colt car?
Mitsubishi Motors
About Colt
The Colt is the first nameplate used by Mitsubishi Motors for passenger vehicles, and the initial vehicle with this name, the Colt 600, debuted in 1962.
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.
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.
Why did Shelby go to Dodge?
After his move to Chrysler Corporation, Lee Iacocca wanted to establish the Dodge Division as the company's performance division. To accomplish his objective he enlisted Carroll Shelby to make it happen.
What kind of car is a Colt?
Mitsubishi introduced the "Colt" name in 1962 on the Mitsubishi Colt 600, the first of a line of small family cars complementing their Mitsubishi 500, the company's first post-war passenger car.
1989 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
- Exterior lighting problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Dodge Colt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1989 Dodge Colt
The NHTSA has received 37 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Dodge Colt. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1989 Dodge Colt vehicles.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-01
- VIN: JB3CU14X4KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT SYSTEM HAS LOCKED UP AND WON'T MOVE. IT IS NOT IN THE LATCHED POSITION. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JP3CU24X6KU
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS ARE ON AND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE RIGHT REAR TAIL LIGHTS GO OUT, CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-25
- VIN: JP4EV41X3KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL # 95V103003, CONTACTED DEALER IN JAN OF 97. PART HAS BEEN ON BACK ORDER FOR (7) MONTHS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JB4EV1X7KU0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONTACTED THOMAS DODGE FOR THE SECOND TIME AND THE PARTS HAVE NOT BEEN SHIPPED TO THE DEALER. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JP3CU24XXKV
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ABOUT 45 MPH AND WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, AND THE SEAT BELTS ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE DID NOT CATCH. THE SHOULDER BELT WENT FORWARD WITH OWNER AND THE LAP BELT BROKE. MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JB3CU24X1KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED ON SEAT BELT BUCKLE DUE TO UNAVAILABILITY OF PARTS.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-18
- VIN: JB3CU24X1KU
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER MALFUNCTIONING DUE TO LEAKING SEALS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-18
- VIN: JB3CU24X1KU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAR HESITATES UPON ACCELERATON DUE TO MISADJUSTED TIMING.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-18
- VIN: JB3CU24X1KU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR HESITATES UPON ACCELERATING DUE TO MISADJUSTED THROTTLE BODY.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-15
- VIN: JB3CU24X1KU
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LEFT TAIL LIGHT IS DIM DUE TO A FAILED GROUND WIRE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE LIGHT STAYS ON, CAUSING BATTERY TO DIE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-10
- VIN: JB3CU14X7KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE IS STUCK IN THE RETRACTOR IN CLOSED POSITION. THE PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-26
- VIN: JB3CU24X9KU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING BRAKE LIGHTS & TAIL LIGHTS WOULD GO OUT WHEN VEHICLE HIT A BUMP; TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER WHO FIXED IT THE FIRST TIME ; DID NOT FIX IT ON LAST VISIT. LAST FEW TIMES; WAS TOLD BY DEALER MAYBE VEHICLE HAD GROUND WIRING PROBLEMS. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JP3CU34X1KU
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING STEERING WHEEL JERKS IN EITHER DIRECTION, TO CORRECT HAS REPLACED TWO TIRES AND ROTATED TIRES, DLR INDICATES MAY BE SUSPENSION PROBLEM, NOT FIXED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JB3CU24X0KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PARTS WERE ORDERED ON MAY 14, 1996 AND THE PARTS STILL HAVE NOT BEEN RECEIVED. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-28
- VIN: JP3CU14X2KU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TIE ROD BROKE, CAUSING FRONT WHEEL TO FALL OFF.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-22
- VIN: JP3CU24X0KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FIRST CONTACT WITH THE DEALER WAS ON 4-22-96. THE CONSUMER HAS NOT RECEIVED NOTICE ON THE AVAILABILITY OF THE PARTS.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JP3CU24X6KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MOTORIZED SEAT BELTS STAY IN THE OPEN POSITION. *SD
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-08
- VIN: JB3CU24X6KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MOTORIZED SHOULDER BELT WILL NOT RELEASE FROM ITS HOUSING. DRIVER MUST MANUALLY UNFASTEN TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JB3CU24X7KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH DRIVER/PASSENGER PASSIVE RESTRAINT FAILS TO ENGAGE; SYSTEM INOPERATIVE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
- VIN: JB3BA46F9HU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PE96-007 ACTIVE, AUTOMATIC LAP/SHOULDER BELT FAILURE, WILL NOT RETRACT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE (OTHER VEHICLE ON 802685). *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JP3CU24X3KV
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: #95V103003, RECEIVED RECALL, CAR SAT AT DEALER FOR TWO DAYS, SERVICE CALL BACK, THERE ARE NO PARTS, PLEASE DECRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MAKING LEFT TURN, DRUNK DRIVER RAN RED LIGHT, HIT VEHICLE ON DRIVER SIDE, SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK UP, DRIVER WAS STRUNG AROUND IN CAR. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-07
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BALL JOINT SECURED BY SNAP RING WHICH IS .003 INCHES LARGER THAN SLOT, ALLOWING SNAP RING TO FALL OFF/JOINT TO COME OUT. *DSH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JB4EV31X2KU
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: ALL REAR SEATBELT BUCKLES ARE INOPERATIVE, UPON LATCHING WON'T RELEASE, BUTTONS HAVE CRUMBLED INTO PIECES. *AK
1989 Dodge Colt recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Dodge Colt.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Dodge Colt problems:
1989 Dodge Colt Reviews - Carsurvey.org
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