1988 Dodge Diplomat problems
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.
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Common 1988 Dodge Diplomat problems
The 1988 Dodge Diplomat was a reliable and well-built car, especially when compared to its predecessors, the Aspen and Volare. However, some common problems did arise from owner complaints.
- Engine starting problems: A common issue with the 1988 Dodge Diplomat was trouble starting the engine in the morning. This could be attributed to a variety of factors, such as a weak battery, a malfunctioning starter motor, or a clogged fuel filter. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of these components can help prevent this problem.
- Gas theft prevention: By 1988, gas theft was less of a concern, but memories of past oil crises still lingered. Some new cars, including the Dodge Diplomat, had features to prevent gas theft, such as locking gas caps or fuel tanks located in inaccessible areas.
- Electrical and steering issues: The 1988 Dodge Diplomat had a recall related to electrical and steering problems. This issue could lead to a loss of power steering assist or even a complete electrical failure, which would make the car difficult to control and potentially dangerous to drive.
- Safety concerns: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) encourages reporting any safety problems with the 1988 Dodge Diplomat, including issues with the vehicle, tires, car seats, or other equipment. This helps maintain road safety and ensures that any potential issues are addressed promptly.
- Police package wear and tear: The Dodge Diplomat was a popular choice for police fleets, and these vehicles often experienced additional wear and tear due to their heavy usage. Police-spec Diplomats had unique features, such as heavy-duty suspensions and upgraded brakes, but they were also prone to issues like shock tower and K-frame cracking, especially when used for high-speed pursuits or carrying heavy loads.
- Interior components: Some owners have reported issues with interior components, such as the rearview mirror falling off or the aftermarket stereo not being compatible with the original owner's preferences. These issues are generally cosmetic and do not affect the vehicle's overall performance or safety.
In summary, the 1988 Dodge Diplomat was a reliable and well-built car, but it was not without its common problems. Issues such as engine starting problems, gas theft prevention features, electrical and steering recalls, safety concerns, police package wear and tear, and interior components have been reported by owners. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable over time.
What was the top speed of a 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.
How fast is a Dodge Diplomat?
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 made 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.
1988 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Dodge Diplomat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Dodge Diplomat complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Dodge Diplomat.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B3BG26P2JW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING TRIED TO PUT ON BRAKES AND THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE DIDN'T STOP UNTILL IT CRASHED. *AK
1988 Dodge Diplomat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1988 Dodge Diplomat.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL MAY CRACK AT ITS MOUNTING HUB WELD ATTACHMENT BECAUSE OF FATIGUE LOADING AND EVENTUALLY SEPARATE FROM THE HUB.
- Consequence: SEPARATION OF THE STEERING WHEEL FROM ITS MOUNTING HUBRESULTS IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUTWARNING.
- Remedy: REPLACE STEERING WHEELS WITH REVISED WHEEL WITH ARC WELDS ADDED AT THE WHEEL STAMPING-TO-HUB ATTACHMENT.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT WIRING HARNESS FUSIBLE LINK WIRES MAY BE TRAPPED UNDER THE SPEED CONTROL SERVO BRACKET.
- Consequence: TRAPPED WIRES MAY EVENTUALLY CAUSE A HIGH RESISTANCEELECTRICAL SHORT THAT CAN RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: FREE ANY TRAPPED WIRING; THEN SECURE WIRING WITH A TIE STRAP TO KEEP AWAY FROM SPEED CONTROL BRACKET.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Dodge Diplomat problems:
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