1987 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 1987 Dodge Lancer problems
The 1987 Dodge Lancer, particularly the ES model, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include:
- Drive side window malfunction: Another common problem is the drive side window having difficulty staying up all the way, falling down about an inch or so. This can be caused by worn-out window regulators, broken window seals, or other issues related to the window mechanism.
- Body damage: The 1987 Dodge Lancer ES can suffer from body damage, such as dents and scratches, which can affect its appearance and value. For instance, one owner reported a first-size dent on the front passenger 1/4 panel and damage to the passenger side rear bumper.
- Rust: Rust is another common issue with the 1987 Dodge Lancer ES, particularly in areas like above the back tires and the underside, especially by the driver side back door. This can be due to exposure to road salt, moisture, and other environmental factors.
- Transmission problems: Although the transmission of the 1987 Dodge Lancer ES was generally reported to work well, some owners have experienced issues with it, such as the need for replacement or repair.
- Electrical glitches: Electrical issues have been reported in the 1987 Dodge Lancer ES, including vacuum pressure failures and other electrical problems. These can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning electrical components.
- Suspension and shock failure: Some owners have reported early failure of shocks and issues with suspension components, which can affect the car's handling and ride quality.
- Turbocharger failure: The turbocharged engine in the 1987 Dodge Lancer ES has been known to fail at around 75,000 miles, which can result in a loss of power and performance.
- Fuel pump problems: If a 1987 Dodge Lancer with a turbo engine has been sitting for a long period, the fuel pump may need to be replaced due to the fuel becoming stale or contaminated.
- High maintenance costs: Some owners have reported that the 1987 Dodge Lancer ES can be expensive to maintain, particularly if the car has high mileage or has not been well-maintained.
1987 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Dodge Lancer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Dodge Lancer complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Dodge Lancer.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-25
- VIN: 1B3BX68K1HN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EFFECT BEGAN 07/26/1999 AND OCCURS 3+ TIMES PER MONTH. MAY CLEAR AFTER REACHING FULL OPERATING TEMPERATUE AT 60+ MPH (20 MINUTES). DEALER VERY HELPFUL, AND RESET IDLE SPEED REGISTER SEVERAL TIMES. "TEST DROVE, CHK AIS MOTOR O.K., HIGH IDLE REMAINS O.K.; RESET ALL VALUES" IN REGISTERS. (INV. DOCS90153). FOR 20 MINS. OR SO, MINIMUM SPEED IS 25-30MPH IS 1ST GEAR. I AM JUST CONCERNED WE WILL GET SOMEONE HURT, IF WE CAN'T DETERMINE WHAT'S CAUSING THIS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1D3BX48DOHN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVER STOPPED THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, AND WHEN HE OPENED UP THE HOOD THE FIRE FLEW OUT AND BURNED THE ENTIRE HOOD UP. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BX68E2HN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STRONG GASOLINE SMELL.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TURN SIGNAL MODULE FAILED. ALSO, WHENSWITCH IS PULLED OUTWARD, THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT TURN OUT. IN ADDITION, REAR DOOR POWER LOCKS DO NOT UNLOCK/LOCK FULLY; REAR BRAKE FAILURE, AND TWO FUEL INJECTORS FAILED, CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TURN SIGNAL FAILED; ALSO, HEADLIGHTS/PARKING LIGHTS MALFUNCTIONED, AS WELL AS POWER DOOR LOCKS/REAR BRAKES AND TWO FUEL INJECTORS FAILED, CAUSING A LEAK. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-15
- VIN: 1B3BX68E2HN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: REAR AXLE BEAM FAILED TWICE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B3BX68E6HN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO THE FUEL SYSTEM.TT CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP TWICE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE GAS ODOR, BUT ON BOTH OCCASIONS THEY STATED THEY FIXED THE OIL LEAK, CONSUMER IS STILL HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE GAS HOSE STAYING ON TO THE LINE.*JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-31
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IT CAUGHT ON FIRE. CAME FROM A ROTTEN GAS LINE WHICH ALLOWS GAS TO DRIP ON THE MANIFOLD. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: HAVE BEEN REPLACED FOR NOT LOCKING. PLEASE DESCRIBE FURTHER. TT
1987 Dodge Lancer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1987 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: SHELBY AUTOMOBILES, INC.
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: PARKING BRAKE MECHANISM COMPONENT MAY DISENGAGE.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF PARKING BRAKE FUNCTION;ALSO, LOOSE COMPONENT COULD JAM IN THE PARKING BRAKE ASSEMBLY.
- Remedy: REPLACE PARKING BRAKE ASSEMBLY.
- 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.
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