1986 Dodge Lancer problems
The Dodge Lancer is an automobile that was marketed in three unrelated versions by Dodge during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1980s. The first version debuted as a hardtop version of the full-sized 1955 Dodge, and was produced in that form until 1959. The second version revived the nameplate in 1961 for a Chrysler A platform-based compact that was marketed for two model years and replaced by the Dodge Dart. The third version returned the Lancer nameplate in 1985 for a front-wheel drive mid-sized Chrysler H platform model that was in production until 1988 after which it was replaced by the Dodge Spirit.
1955–1959 Coronet Lancer, Royal Lancer and Custom Royal Lancer
Dodge used the Lancer name from 1955 until 1959 to designate the two- and four-door hardtop (no B-pillar) models in the full-sized Coronet, Royal, and Custom Royal lines. The Custom Royal Lancer was a hardtop only and top-of-the-line model for Dodge in 1959. There were 6,278 two-door and 5,019 four-door hardtops made in 1959. A total of 11,397 Custom Royal Lancers were built.
The Custom Royal Lancer featured a big-block V8 engine, the 361 cu in (5.9 L) producing 305 hp (227 kW; 309 PS). A D-500 option was available, which included a 383 cu in (6.3 L) engine with a single Carter four-barrel carburetor rated at 320 hp (239 kW; 324 PS), as well as a Super D-500 version with dual four-barrel carburetors producing 340 hp (254 kW; 345 PS).
The Custom Royal Lancer featured a padded dashboard and steering wheel, Lancer emblems on the fenders, steering wheel, hubcaps, foot-operated windshield wipers, dual-radio antennas, deluxe side trim, and thick chrome eyebrows. Optional equipment included power windows and brakes, air conditioning, and swivel seats. The Lancer designation was dropped for 1960.
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Common 1986 Dodge Lancer problems
The Dodge Lancer, produced in the 1980s, was a turbocharged car with the K roots that was considered surprisingly civilized and fast. However, it had some common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most significant issues was the head gasket failure in the 1986 turbo Dodge Lancer. This problem can be costly and time-consuming to fix, and it can cause severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Another common problem was the failure of the turbocharger and multiple port injection system, which could lead to poor performance and reduced fuel efficiency. The turbocharger could overheat, causing the engine to lose power, and the fuel injectors could become clogged or fail, leading to a decrease in fuel economy and an increase in emissions.
The 2.6 liter four-cylinder engine, which was an option in the Lancer, was also prone to problems. The most critical things that the 2.6's need done to keep running great include regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and filters, checking the spark plugs, and inspecting the timing belt. Neglecting these tasks can lead to engine failure, which can be expensive to repair.
The Lancer was also known for its poor fuel efficiency, especially in the turbocharged models. The turbocharged engine could get better mileage than the single-injector version, but it still fell short of many other cars in its class. This problem was particularly noticeable in city driving, where the Lancer's poor aerodynamics and heavy weight made it less fuel-efficient than many other cars.
Finally, the Lancer was known for its poor build quality, which was a common problem in many cars of the 1980s. The interior trim pieces could become loose or fall off, and the exterior panels could rust or corrode, especially in areas where road salt was used during the winter months. These problems could lead to a decrease in the car's value and a decrease in its overall reliability.
In summary, the Dodge Lancer was a fast and civilized car, but it had some common problems that owners should be aware of. These problems include head gasket failure, turbocharger and fuel injection system failure, poor fuel efficiency, and poor build quality. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help to mitigate these problems and ensure that the Lancer remains a reliable and enjoyable car to drive.
1986 Dodge Lancer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Lancer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Dodge Lancer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Dodge Lancer complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Dodge Lancer.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-21
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRES
- Summary: 1986 DODGE LANCER ALTERNATOR, TIRE, AND BATTERY PROBLEMS. *CB THE CONSUMER ALSO EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE'S FUEL PUMP. *NM
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-15
- VIN: 133BX48E88G
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT A USED VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY PURCHASED AND HAS HAD MANY IMMEDIATE PROBLEMS. THERE ARE PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE STALLING AND THE FRONT LEFT ALIGNMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DEALER WHERE THE FOLLOWING SERVICES WERE PERFORMED; TUNE UP, OIL CHANGE AND A NEW BATTERY WAS REPLACED. THE FRONT ALIGNMENT HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AND PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE HAS PERSISTED SINCE THE VEHICLE PURCHASE DATE OF JULY 15TH OF 2006.*AK UPDATED 10/6/2006 - AT TIMES THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW WONT STAY UP. THE CONSUMER ALSO HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE WINDSHIELD, INTERIOR LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D6GN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FRONT ENGINE MOUNT BROKE CAUSING ENGINE TO ROCK BACK & FORTH WHILE SWITCHED BETWEEN REVERSE & DRIVE, ENGINE SHOOK SEVERELY & BANGED UNDER SIDE OF HOOK WHEN IN REVERSE. *ET
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX6837GN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FUEL LINE FAILED CAUSING GASOLINE TO BE SPRAYED ON THE EXHAUST SYSTEM, FIREWALL AND HOOD PAD. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-01
- VIN: 1B3BX48D6GN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: FRONT BRAKES LOCKED UP. FLUID RETURN VALVE IN MASTER CYLINDER PLUGGED. REPLACED PADS, ROTORS, MASTER CYLINDER.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-15
- VIN: 1B3BX48K2GN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER NOTICED BLACK THICK SMOKE BLOWING OUT OF THE EXHAUST UNIT. CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A PROBLEM TRYING TO START THE VEHICLE UP. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D6N1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHT SWITCH IS DEFECTIVE; GETS EXTREMELY HOT, AND SMELLS HORRIBLE (HOT ELECTRICAL SMELL), MELTED PLASTIC CONNECTOR FOR HEADLIGHT SWITCH, CAUSING PARKING & DASH LIGHTS NOT TO FUNCTION WHEN SWITCH IS TURNED ON (HAZARD).
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D8GN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
- Summary: WELDS BETWEEN HEATING CORE AND HOSE ATTACHINGTUBING FAILED, CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK INTO VEHICLE.ALSO, FRONT BRAKE CALIPER PINS WERE BENT/WHEN VEHICLE PUT INTO REVERSE,IT SHAKES/POWER STEERING MOUNTING BRACKET BECAME LOOSE, AND FRONT ENGINE MOUNT BROKE, CAUSING ENGINE TO ROCK BACK AND FORTH.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D8GN
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE AND HOSE ATTACHING TUBING FAILED, CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK INTO VEHICLE/CAUSED WINDOWS TO FOG DURING COLD/COOL WEATHER MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE. CALIPER PINS ON BOTH SIDES WERE BENT AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. ALSO, WHEN VEHICLE IS PUT INTO REVERSE, CAR SHAKES/CHATTERS/HARD TO CONTROL, AND BACK DIFFICULTIES WHEN MOVING THE GEAR SELECTOR INTO FIRST GEAR UNTIL CAR HAS NERARLY STOPPED. DURING COLD ENGINE OPERATION/HIGH IDLE, IT'S NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO PUT VEHICLE INT FIRST GEAR. POWER STEER MOUNTING BRACKET CONNECTION AT THE ENGINE BECOMES EXTREMELY LOOSE, AND ENGINE MOUNT BROKE, CAUSING ENGINE TO ROCK BACK AND FORTH WHEN SWITCHED BETWEEN REVERSE AND DRIVE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D8GN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CALIPER PINS ON BOTH SIDES WERE BENT & NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DURING A BRAKE PAD CHANGE. *ET
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-25
- VIN: 1B3BX48D6GN
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING MOUNTING BRACKET CONNECTION AT THE ENGINE BECAME EXTREMELY LOOSE. *ET
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D8GN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING THE VEHIICLE TO SHAKE, CLUTH CHATTER WHEN VEHICLE IS PUT INTO REVERSE, WHEN VEHICLE IS MOVING THE GEAR SELECTOR CANNOT BE PUT INTO FIRST GEAR UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS NEARLY STOPPED. *ET
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX48D8GN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING THE VEHIICLE TO SHAKE, CLUTH CHATTER WHEN VEHICLE IS PUT INTO REVERSE, WHEN VEHICLE IS MOVING THE GEAR SELECTOR CANNOT BE PUT INTO FIRST GEAR UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS NEARLY STOPPED. *ET
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-01
- VIN: 1B3BX48K2GN
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN IS LOOSE DUE THE FACT THAT BOLTS CAME LOOSE, IN FOR REPAIR, DEALERSHIP WILL REPLACE BOLTS. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-01
- VIN: 1B3BX48D2GN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RUSTED K-MEMBER WHICH MOUNTS LOWER CONTROL ARM AND STEERING RACK AND PINION. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B3BX68E5GN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING WITH CHILDREN IN CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE . TT
1986 Dodge Lancer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1986 Dodge Lancer.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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