1985 Dodge Daytona problems

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The Dodge Daytona is an automobile which was produced by the Chrysler Corporation under their Dodge division from 1984 until 1993. It was a front-wheel drive hatchback based on the Chrysler G platform, which was derived from the Chrysler K platform. The Chrysler Laser was an upscale rebadged version of the Daytona. The Daytona was restyled for 1987, and again for 1992. It replaced the Mitsubishi Galant-based Challenger, and slotted between the Charger and the Conquest. The Daytona was replaced by the 1995 Dodge Avenger, which was built by Mitsubishi Motors. The Daytona derives its name mainly from the Dodge Charger Daytona, which itself was named after the Daytona 500 race in Daytona Beach, Florida.

History

The Daytona originally used the 2.2 L Chrysler K engine in naturally aspirated or turbocharged form. Power outputs are 93 and 142 hp (69 and 106 kW) respectively. The 100-horsepower (75 kW), 2.5-litre K engine was added for 1986. In 1985, the 2.2-L Turbo I engine's horsepower was increased to 146 hp (109 kW). The 1984 Daytona was available in three trim lines: standard, Turbo and Turbo Z. Total production was 49,347. The Daytona Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's 10Best list for 1984. Both the Daytona and Chrysler Laser were available with the Chrysler electronic voice alert system through 1987. A performance oriented "Shelby" version of the Daytona was introduced in 1987.

1984

The Daytona debuted with a 142 hp Turbo I motor. Many Turbo Z models were produced and were more luxurious than other years due to their use of Mark Cross leather, light up speakers, and rear amplifier switches. These options were dropped after 1984.

1985 Dodge Daytona

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Common 1985 Dodge Daytona problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1985 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z, several common problems have been identified:

  • Crank-End Play: Owners have experienced crank-end play problems, causing premature wear on clutches. This issue can lead to difficulties in shifting gears and can be a costly repair if not addressed promptly.
  • Odometer Gear Deterioration: The odometer gears in the speedometer/odometer system are prone to deterioration over time. Pushing the reset odometer button while the car is in motion can break these gears, leading to inaccurate mileage readings. Replacing these gears is essential to ensure accurate tracking of mileage.
  • Noisy Stock Lifters: The stock lifters in these cars are known to produce top-end noise, often caused by wear and tear. Upgrading to PT lifters with shims can help reduce this noise and improve engine performance. Neglecting this issue can lead to further damage to the engine components.
  • Pop-Up Headlight Malfunction: A common problem reported by Daytona owners is the malfunction of the pop-up headlights. The headlight module/relay, located on top of the dashboard, can overheat and fail due to sun exposure. This issue can affect visibility and safety while driving at night and needs to be addressed promptly to ensure proper functioning of the headlights.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs to keep the 1985 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z in optimal condition. Addressing these issues promptly can help owners enjoy their driving experience without significant disruptions.

1985 Dodge Daytona engine

How much horsepower did a 1985 Dodge Daytona have?

The Daytona originally used the 2.2 L Chrysler K engine in naturally aspirated or turbocharged form. Power outputs are 93 and 142 hp (69 and 106 kW) respectively. The 100-horsepower (75 kW), 2.5-litre K engine was added for 1986. In 1985, the 2.2-L Turbo I engine's horsepower was increased to 146 hp (109 kW).

Is a Dodge Daytona rare?

We already knew the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona was rare given that only 503 were produced, but with the 426-cubic-inch HEMI® V8 engine and 4-speed A833 manual transmission upgrades, those numbers just dropped to double digits. When you count the Copper Metallic finish, this Daytona becomes one-of-one.

Why was the Dodge Daytona banned from Nascar?

Apparently, it was too fast for NASCAR's liking, and the evidence was there. As it turned out, Buddy Baker broke the speed record at the Talladega Superspeedway. Baker was the first driver to ever breach the 200mph barrier, and the Dodge Charger Daytona dominated several races.

What engine was in the Dodge Daytona?

The Daytona's original equipment is the stuff Mopar dreams are made of: a 375-horse 440 Magnum engine, Hemi-rated four-speed manual transmission with a Hurst shifter, and the prized A34 Super Track Pak, which features a Sure-Grip Dana 60 rear end with 4.10:1 gears, viscous-drive fan, and dual-breaker distributor.

How much horsepower did a 1985 Dodge Daytona have?

The Daytona originally used the 2.2 L Chrysler K engine in naturally aspirated or turbocharged form. Power outputs are 93 and 142 hp (69 and 106 kW) respectively. The 100-horsepower (75 kW), 2.5-litre K engine was added for 1986. In 1985, the 2.2-L Turbo I engine's horsepower was increased to 146 hp (109 kW).

What engine is in a Dodge Daytona?

The Daytona was built on the 1969 Charger's R/T trim specifications, meaning that it carried a heavy-duty suspension and brake setup and was equipped with a 440 cu in (7.2 L) Magnum engine as standard.

Why was the Dodge Daytona banned from Nascar?

Apparently, it was too fast for NASCAR's liking, and the evidence was there. As it turned out, Buddy Baker broke the speed record at the Talladega Superspeedway. Baker was the first driver to ever breach the 200mph barrier, and the Dodge Charger Daytona dominated several races.

How fast is the Dodge Daytona?

Baker patiently brought his Dodge Daytona up to speed during the full day of testing, eclipsing the 200 mph mark with a lap of 200.096 mph on his 30th circuit around Talladega. Four laps later, Baker hit 200.447 mph, which became the track record.

1985 Dodge Daytona car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Dodge Daytona vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1985 Dodge Daytona complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Dodge Daytona.

1999-03-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-01-25
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1B38A64E0FG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: RIGHT AFTER DRIVING VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. OWNER WAS ABLE TO PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE FIRE DID NOT BURN THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY. *AK
1998-11-12

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-10-19
  • VIN: 1B3BA44D5FG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH MOTOR. WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1997-12-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE ANTI-FREEZ TESTER TUBE CAME OFF AND GOT INTO THE RADIATOR, CAUSED CAR NOT TO WARM UP. YH
1997-12-11

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED DUE TO METHANOL GAS, WHICH ALSO CLOGGED FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR AND CAUSED LOSS OF POWER. YH
1996-03-12

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-07
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1B3BA44E2FG
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: FUEL RAIL LEAKED GAS, CAUSING FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL, OWNER NOT NOTIFIED OF RECALL.

1985 Dodge Daytona recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1985 Dodge Daytona.

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.
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.
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.
1985-01-01
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUEL HOSE ROUTED TO THE FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE REGULATOR MAY HAVE AN INADEQUATELY TIGHTENED HOSE CLAMP. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE FUEL HOSE COULD LEAK AND RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
  • Remedy: REPOSITION AND TIGHTEN TO THE PROPER TORQUE LEVEL OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMP.
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Additional sources

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Other years of Dodge Daytona

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Daytona 1986
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Daytona 1987
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Daytona 1988
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Daytona 1989
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Daytona 1990
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Daytona 1991
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1985 Dodge Daytona photo