1986 Dodge Diplomat problems

dodge logo

The Dodge Diplomat is an American mid-size car that was produced by Dodge from 1977 to 1989. At launch, it shared a common design with the Chrysler LeBaron and for much of its later production run was the counterpart of the more upscale Chrysler Fifth Avenue and lower priced Plymouth Gran Fury. It was also sold in Mexico between 1981 and 1982 as the Dodge Dart, and in Colombia as the Dodge Coronet. The Diplomat was initially offered in a coupe and a sedan; in 1978, station wagons were added as replacements for the discontinued full-sized C-body wagons.

The Diplomat was offered with a 225 cu in (3.7 L) straight-6 engine a well as optional 318 cu in (5.2 L) and 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8s. The Diplomat, along with its Plymouth Gran Fury/Caravelle twin, were popular police cars both in North America. The three-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission was most popular, but a manual transmission was available until 1981 only on six cylinder and 318 V8 models.

Background

The Diplomat name was originally used by Dodge on 2-door hardtop models from 1950 to 1954. It was also used on the export version of the DeSoto from 1946 through 1962. From 1975 through 1977, the Diplomat name was also used on a trim package available on the Royal Monaco two-door hardtop. Starting with the 1977 model year, the Diplomat became a full model line, rather than as the name of a particular body style.

1986 Dodge Diplomat

Social links

Common 1986 Dodge Diplomat problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1986 Dodge Diplomat, several common problems have been reported:

  • Brake Problems: Complaints have highlighted brake issues with the Dodge Diplomat, such as pulsing in the brake pedal and increased stopping distance. Brake problems can compromise the vehicle's ability to stop efficiently, which is a critical safety concern for drivers.
  • Starting Issues: Some owners have experienced difficulties starting the 1986 Dodge Diplomat, particularly in certain locations. Starting problems can be frustrating and may indicate underlying issues with the ignition system or fuel delivery.
  • Carburetor Malfunction: A specific complaint mentioned the need for a new carburetor to address functionality issues in a Diplomat police package with high mileage. Carburetor problems can affect engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall drivability.
  • Metal Corrosion: The 1986 Dodge Diplomat, especially those stored for extended periods, may be prone to metal corrosion issues. Corrosion can affect various components of the vehicle, leading to structural weaknesses and aesthetic deterioration.
  • Transmission Challenges: While not explicitly mentioned in the sources, transmission problems are common in older vehicles like the 1986 Dodge Diplomat. Issues such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or transmission fluid leaks could be potential concerns for owners.
  • Electrical System Faults: Electrical problems, including issues with the alarm system, have been noted in some Diplomat models. Malfunctions in the electrical system can lead to various operational issues and impact the overall reliability of the vehicle.

Addressing these common problems with the 1986 Dodge Diplomat is crucial to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of the vehicle. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections can help mitigate these issues and keep the Dodge Diplomat running smoothly.

1986 Dodge Diplomat engine

What was the top speed of the Dodge Diplomat police car?

The two-barrel car had a 106 mph top speed; the four-barrel, 121 mph.

What was the Chrysler version of the Dodge Diplomat?

Chrysler LeBaron

The Dodge Diplomat is an American mid-size car that was produced by Dodge from 1977 to 1989. At launch, it shared a common design with the Chrysler LeBaron and for much of its later production run was the counterpart of the more upscale Chrysler Fifth Avenue and lower priced Plymouth Gran Fury.

Who makes the diplomat car?

The Dodge Diplomat was a mid-size sedan that was produced by the Chrysler Corporation from 1977 to 1989. Designed as a more luxurious variant of Dodge's compact and mid-size lineup, the Diplomat was aimed at buyers looking for affordable comfort and a touch of elegance.

What is the fastest police car ever made?

Abu Dhabi police Lykan Hypersport

It's a Lykan Hypersport, which means it's one of only seven such cars to exist. Each one costs around £2m, and features a 3.7-litre twin-turbo flat-six with 750bhp. W Motors reckons on 0-62mph in 2.8secs and a top speed of 242mph. So, y'know, fast.

What was the top speed of the Dodge Diplomat police car?

The two-barrel car had a 106 mph top speed; the four-barrel, 121 mph.

When did Dodge stop making the diplomat?

to 1989

The Dodge Diplomat is an American mid-size car that was produced by Dodge from 1977 to 1989.

What body style is a Dodge Diplomat?

The Diplomat was initially offered in a coupe and a sedan; in 1978, station wagons were added as replacements for the discontinued full-sized C-body wagons.

Who makes the diplomat car?

The Dodge Diplomat was a mid-size sedan that was produced by the Chrysler Corporation from 1977 to 1989. Designed as a more luxurious variant of Dodge's compact and mid-size lineup, the Diplomat was aimed at buyers looking for affordable comfort and a touch of elegance.

1986 Dodge Diplomat car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Power train problems
  • Wheels problems
  • Seat belts problems

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

1986 Dodge Diplomat complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Dodge Diplomat.

2004-10-24

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-19
  • VIN: 1B3BG26P4GX
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: ON VEHICLE OF TRANSMISSION, LOST THE OVER DRIVE AND ALSO THE REVERSE GETTING A CLUNK WHEN SHIFT INTO REVERSE AT ANY SPEED ONLY HAD 14,000 ON THE VEHICLE (2) THE REVERSE PLATE ACCORDING TO A TRANSMISSION RESTORER WAS COMPLELETELY GROVED WAS UNABLE TO SALVAGE TRANSMISSION (3) HAD TO REBUILD ENTIRE TRANSMISSION AND REPLACE REVERSE PLATE WITH TORK COVERTER ( ADDITIONAL INFO) THEIR WAS A RECALL ON THIS MODEL AND TRANSMISSION BACK IN 1995 TBS NO. ATRASIL8912 REVERSE SQUAWK / CLUNK /AT 727/904. *AK
1996-08-14

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-03
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: LEFT FRONT TIRE/RIM BROKE OFF LUG STUDS, CAUSING ACCIDENT. (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)
1996-01-18

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-12-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1B3BG56P9GX
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE SEATBELT DID NOT RESTRAIN THE OCCUPANT WHILE INVOLVED IN A COLLISION. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT

1986 Dodge Diplomat recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1986 Dodge Diplomat.

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.
Leave your review of 1986 Dodge Diplomat

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Dodge Diplomat problems:

Late 80's Fifth Avenue | Allpar Forums
Late 80's Fifth Avenue | Allpar Forums
https://www.allpar.com/threads/late-80s-fifth-avenue.127105/

Jul 22, 2010 ... yep, seems like there was no real rhyme or reason for the sag, just some people had problems some didn't. 1978 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe, 360-4bbl ...

What did police of the 1980s think of the Dodge Diplomat? - Quora
What did police of the 1980s think of the Dodge Diplomat? - Quora
https://www.quora.com/What-did-police-of-the-1980s-think-of-the-Dodge-Diplomat

Feb 15, 2022 ... ... Dodge Diplomat was? (Was either ... What were the most common revolvers police used in the 1980s? ... problems. Revolvers have fewer moving parts ...

1985 Dodge Diplomat SE HELP | Allpar Forums
1985 Dodge Diplomat SE HELP | Allpar Forums
https://www.allpar.com/threads/1985-dodge-diplomat-se-help.241230/

May 26, 2022 ... What about the carburetor? That's often the source of performance and economy issues on an old car. Does it still have the stock ignition or has ...

Curbside Classic: 1988 Dodge Diplomat SE: Absolution Granted ...
Curbside Classic: 1988 Dodge Diplomat SE: Absolution Granted ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-american/curbside-classic-1985-dodge-diplomat-se-absolution-granted/

Jun 15, 2015 ... Well, this extremely well preserved Diplomat is blessedly unencumbered with those issues ... problems right now, so the Diplomat is ... 1986, when ...

potential wiring short | Dodge RamCharger Central
potential wiring short | Dodge RamCharger Central
https://www.ramchargercentral.com/threads/potential-wiring-short.228402/

Dec 18, 2014 ... Could this be related to any or all problems? '89 Dodge D150. All factory daily driver/hauler/beater. '86 Dodge Diplomat. Ex-Police car. 318 ...

Other years of Dodge Diplomat

dodge diplomat 1987 photo
Diplomat 1987
Dodge

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
dodge diplomat 1988 photo
Diplomat 1988
Dodge

1

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
dodge diplomat 1985 photo
Diplomat 1985
Dodge

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
dodge diplomat 1986 photo
Diplomat 1986
Dodge

3

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1986 Dodge Diplomat?

Add car complaint
1986 Dodge Diplomat photo