1985 Dodge Omni problems

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The Dodge Omni and the nearly identical badge engineered variant, the Plymouth Horizon, is a subcompact car manufactured and marketed by Chrysler Corporation for model years 1978-1990. The first Chrysler model line produced with front-wheel drive, the Omni and Horizon were also the first front-wheel drive economy cars assembled in the United States. Marketed for eleven years with very few changes, around 2,500,000 Omnis and Horizons were manufactured, with the Plymouth variants more popular than the Dodge-branded models.

The first (and only) world car designed by Chrysler, the model line originated from a design of Chrysler Europe (who developed the namesake Chrysler Horizon). While visually similar, the American Omni/Horizon would have extensive functional differences from its European counterpart, primarily to accommodate US marketing and regulatory requirements.

From 1977 to 1990, Chrysler manufactured the Omni and Horizon at its Belvidere Assembly Plant facility (Belvidere, Illinois); from 1987 to 1989, the model line was manufactured under contract by American Motors Corporation (AMC) at its own facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin. From 1987 to 1990, the model line was marketed alongside its successor, the Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance hatchback sedan.

1985 Dodge Omni

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Common 1985 Dodge Omni problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1985 Dodge Omni, several common problems have been reported:

  • Unpleasant Smell: Some owners have reported a smell like rotten eggs in their 1985 Dodge Omni. While this smell is commonly associated with catalytic converter issues, older models like the 1985 Omni may not have a catalytic converter. The smell could be due to other factors like an overcharged battery or other mechanical issues.
  • Steering and Control: Consumer Reports initially raised concerns about the stability and control of the Dodge Omni during hard maneuvering. This led to modifications by Chrysler to improve steering and handling, including the addition of a steering damper and a lighter-weight steering wheel.

These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning signs or unusual smells in older vehicles like the 1985 Dodge Omni. Regular inspections, addressing check engine lights promptly, and ensuring proper functioning of essential components can help owners maintain the performance and safety of their vehicles.

1985 Dodge Omni engine

How much horsepower does a 1985 Dodge Omni have?

Built just for model years 1984 through 1986, the Omni GLH packed a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine putting out 146 horsepower, which made for good performance given that the car weighed 2,200lbs.

Did the Dodge Omni have a VW engine?

For 1981 Chrysler offered buyers a new engine. Option some years have passed since the Omni Horizons launch and Chrysler had been working on their own in-house four-cylinder. A new 2.2 liter 4 with 84

What does GLH stand for on a Dodge Omni?

Goes Like Hell

The 1986 Shelby Omni GLH-S was a modified Dodge Omni GLH, with changes made at the Shelby factory. They were retitled as Shelby Automobiles cars sold at select Dodge dealerships. GLH stood for "Goes Like Hell" and GLH-S stood for Goes Like Hell S'more. Just 500 were made.

How much horsepower does a Dodge Omni have?

Dodge Omni
Dodge
Engines1.6L (98 cid) I4 (1983-1986) 1.7L (105 cid) I4 (1978-1982) 2.2L (135 cid) I4 (1981-1990) 2.2L (135 cid) Turbo I4 (1984-1986)
Power64-176 hp
SimilarPlymouth Horizon

Did the Dodge Omni have a VW engine?

For 1985, Chrysler had planned to build a "fast-burn, high-swirl" 1.8-liter four for the Omni as well as K-cars, but these plans also stalled. Engine built by Volkswagen in Germany and supplied to Chrysler.

How much horsepower does a 1985 Dodge Omni have?

Built just for model years 1984 through 1986, the Omni GLH packed a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine putting out 146 horsepower, which made for good performance given that the car weighed 2,200lbs.

What does GLH stand for on a Dodge Omni?

Goes Like Hell

The 1986 Shelby Omni GLH-S was a modified Dodge Omni GLH, with changes made at the Shelby factory. They were retitled as Shelby Automobiles cars sold at select Dodge dealerships. GLH stood for "Goes Like Hell" and GLH-S stood for Goes Like Hell S'more. Just 500 were made.

What engine did the Dodge Omni have?

1978-1990. The Omni and Horizon debuted for 1978, and immediately received rave reviews from the general public and automotive press (Motor Trend naming the Omni/Horizon twins "Car of the Year"). The sole engine was a 75 hp 1.7L I4 that used a Volkswagen block. Transmissions were a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic ...

1985 Dodge Omni car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Seat belts problems

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

1985 Dodge Omni complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Dodge Omni.

1995-04-24

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-04-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLED FAILED, LEAVING CHILD SEAT UNSECURED. *SD

1985 Dodge Omni recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1985 Dodge Omni.

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.
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.
1984-11-21
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: THE POTENTIAL FOR FUEL LEAKAGE EXISTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT THE FUEL RESERVOIR SEAM AND ITS HOSE CONNECTIONS. THE FUEL RESERVOIR IS A SILVER COLORED CAN MOUNTED TO THE AIR CLEANER.
  • Remedy: THE HOSES AND THE METAL TUBE THAT ATTACHES TO THE FUEL RESERVOIR WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEW COMPONENTS. THE DEALER WILL ALSO REPLACE OR RESEAL THE RESERVOIR.
1984-09-24
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
  • Summary: AN EMISSIONS SYSTEM VALVE MAY ALLOW AN OVERLY RICH MIXTURE (EXCESSIVE FUEL) IN THE ENGINE DURING DECELERATION. THE MIXTURE OF AIR AND EXCESSIVE FUEL CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL WHILE STOPPING, COASTING, OR TURNING.
  • Remedy: ALL INVOLVED VEHICLES WILL BE CORRECTED BY REMOVING THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM VALVE AND INSTALLING A VACUUM LINE CONNECTOR IN ITS PLACE.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1985 Dodge Omni problems:

1989 Dodge omni problems | Allpar Forums
1989 Dodge omni problems | Allpar Forums
https://www.allpar.com/threads/1989-dodge-omni-problems.150859/

Jul 11, 2013 ... For Sale - a 1985 Dodge Omni GLH Turbo that, when new, became a works-supported SCCA ProRally Production GT class rally car. Years later it was ...

Peeling Paint!!! | Turbo Dodge Forums
Peeling Paint!!! | Turbo Dodge Forums
https://www.turbododge.com/threads/peeling-paint.41020/

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The truth about the Dodge Omni GLH: Did it really GLH? | Articles ...
The truth about the Dodge Omni GLH: Did it really GLH? | Articles ...
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Apr 20, 2023 ... This week, we're looking at one of Shelby's later creations, the Dodge Omni GLH. The problem with the Omni GLH is the “Omni” part of the ...

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Jun 1, 2023 ... Is there a vacuum schematic sticker under the hood? Should be able to follow it if there is. Actually quite common, shops digging in and ...

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CC Capsule: 1985 Dodge Omni – The Perfect CC Commuter ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-capsule-1985-dodge-omni-the-perfect-cc-commuter/

Dec 16, 2014 ... CC Capsule: 1985 Dodge Omni – The Perfect CC Commuter? ... problems you've had with the Focus. There ... common here. Reply. avatar. geozinger.

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