1989 Dodge Raider problems

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The Mitsubishi Raider is a pickup truck from Mitsubishi Motors that debuted in the fall of 2005 as a 2006 model for the United States market and is based largely on the Dodge Dakota. The name is recycled from the Dodge Raider SUV sold from 1987 to 1990, which was a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero.

The Raider filled the gap in the Mitsubishi lineup since the discontinuation of the Mighty Max in 1996. Though Mitsubishi was still building their own Triton at the time, it would have been subject to the chicken tax, while an American-built pickup was not. Chrysler manufactured the Raider alongside the Dakota at their Warren Truck Assembly plant in Warren, Michigan, but they were sent to Normal, Illinois, for installation of some Mitsubishi-specific parts and for distribution. Engine choices had included a 4.7 L PowerTech V8 making 230 hp (172 kW) and 290 lb⋅ft (393 N⋅m) and a 3.7 L PowerTech V6 which produced 210 hp (157 kW) and 210 lb⋅ft (285 N⋅m), though by the 2008 model year, only the 3.7 L V6 was available.

Early sales were disappointing, at only one tenth of the Dakota's. As Mitsubishi dealers reportedly had a six-month supply of Raiders on their lots the company was obligated to request that DaimlerChrysler cut production. 9,861 Raiders were built in 2005, and just 297 more were built from the first of the year through March 11, 2006. New for 2006 was the "slammed" DuroCross version, which has lower suspension and an aggressive body kit. The DuroCross had a low payload, of only 1,180 lb (540 kg) and lost most of its off-roading abilities. Approximately 8,200 Raiders were sold in 2007.

A concept truck was rebadged as the Street Raider and designed by Mitsubishi's California design studio. It first appeared at the 2005 SEMA automotive show and since then has been shown at various automotive shows around the United States. It includes 22 inch custom wheels, custom dual exhaust, and a lowered stance among other features not found on a stock Raider. The Street Raider carries a mooted price tag of $60,000, although there are no current plans to sell it.

1989 Dodge Raider

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Common 1989 Dodge Raider problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1989 Dodge Raider, several common problems have been identified:

  • Starting Issues: Some owners have experienced difficulties starting their Dodge Raiders, even when power is present. Possible causes for this problem include issues with the ignition switch or relay.
  • Coolant and Air Temperature Sensor Problems: Stalling issues have been linked to faulty coolant and air temperature sensors in the Dodge Raider. When these sensors go bad, it can lead to performance issues and stalling.
  • Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts for the Dodge Raider, especially for components like the fuel tank, can be challenging. This can make maintenance and repairs more difficult and time-consuming for owners.
  • Engine Problems: The Dodge Raider's engine has been a source of various issues, including white smoke emissions, cylinder head cracks, block issues from counterbalance shafts, and timing chain wear. These engine-related problems can lead to significant repair costs and difficulties in finding replacement engines.
  • Transmission Issues: Difficulty in locating specific gear oil for the transmission, like DL4 Gear Oil, can pose challenges for owners. Substituting with DL5 Gear Oil may lead to potential performance or maintenance issues.
  • Starting and Running Problems: Some owners have reported issues with starting and running the 1989 Dodge Raider, including rough idling, stalling, and difficulties restarting the vehicle after it warms up. These problems can be caused by various factors such as fuel system components, ignition system issues, or even brake fluid levels.

These common problems highlight the diverse range of issues that owners of the 1989 Dodge Raider have faced over the years. Addressing these issues promptly and with proper maintenance can help ensure the longevity and performance of this vehicle.

1989 Dodge Raider engine

What engine is in a 1989 Dodge Raider?

Specifications for Dodge Raider 3.0 V6 4x4 Automatic, 145hp, 1989 4-speed.

What engine is in a 1988 Dodge Raider?

Later first-gen Pajeros/Monteros/Raiders could be purchased with an optional 6G72 V6 engine, but the 1987-1988 Raiders got the 2.6-liter Astron four-cylinder, rated at 109 horsepower.

What is the towing capacity of a 1989 Dodge Raider?

5000 lbs, give or take, with proper hitch.

What engine is in a 1987 Dodge Raider?

The well-known Mitsubishi 2.6-liter four-cylinder (complete with balance shafts) sends its 109 horsepower through either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. Part-time 4wd, a two-speed transfer case, and automatically locking front hubs are standard equipment.

1989 Dodge Raider car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Seat belts problems
  • Tires problems
  • Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Dodge Raider vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Dodge Raider complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Dodge Raider.

2004-11-14

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-11-14
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOULDER BELT IS ANCHORED TO A PLATE WHICH IS PART OF THE REAR WHEEL WELL. NORMAL WHEEL WELL CORROSION CAUSES THIS PLATE TO BREAK FREE, RENDERING REAR BELTS USELESS. *JB
2001-08-06

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: FIRESTONE STEEL RADIAL 500, LR78-15, DOTVDV4FNJ283 ON DODGE, RAIDER 1989. SPARE TIRE TREAD IS PEALING AWAY FROM TIRE.*AK *SLC
1997-06-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JB7FJ43SXKJ
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT RETRACTORS FAILED.
1997-06-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JB7FJ43SXKJ
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: REAR SEAT BELT MOUNTS RUSTED THROUGH.
1996-09-18

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE DEALERSHIP IS UNAWARE OF THE SPECIFICS OF THE RECALL ON THE SEAT BELT.
1996-08-26

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JB7SJ43S7KJ
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: OWNER RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE, CONTACTED DEALER AND WAS TOLD PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. RECALL# 95V103003.
1996-08-22

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-12-12
  • VIN: JB7FJ43S8KJ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER MECHANISM JAMS WHERE MOTOR LOADED, BOLTS GET LOOSE WHERE WIPER MOVES UP/DOWN, HOLE IN SHEET METAL THAT HOLDS WIPER GETS LARGER, CAUSING WIPER TO JAM UNDER WINDSHIELD, CRACKED WINDSHIELD, IMPAIRS DRIVER'S VISION, MOSTLY IN WINTER MONTHS.AK
1996-08-12

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-05-16
  • VIN: JB7FJ43S7KJ
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE RECALL REPAIR REFUSED DUE TO UNAVAILABILITY OF PARTS.
1996-01-23

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-31
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: TAKATA SEATBELT FAILED, CAUSING INJURY IN ACCIDENT. (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT). *DSH
1996-01-23

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-31
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: TAKATA SEATBELT FAILED, CAUSING INJURY IN ACCIDENT. (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT). *DSH
1995-06-01

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: MICHELIN XCH4S ON VEHICLE HAVE BLOWN OUT, EVEN THE ONE MOUNTED ON BACK HAS BLOWN. TT

1989 Dodge Raider recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 Dodge Raider.

1995-05-24
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
  • Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
1993-07-22
  • Manufacturer: REESE PRODUCTS, INC
  • Components: TRAILER HITCHES
  • Summary: THE WELD ON THE RECEIVER UNIT OF THE TRAILER HITCH CAN BREAK.
  • Consequence: IF THE FAILURE OCCURS, THE TRAILER CAN SEPARATE FROM THETOWING VEHICLE, AND COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THE TRAILER HITCH.
1989-02-28
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THROTTLE BLADE ICING MAY OCCUR DURING EXTENDED HIGHWAY DRIVING AT TEMPERATURES BELOW 10 DEGREES F.
  • Consequence: ICE FORMATION CAN PREVENT THROTTLE BLADE FROM CLOSINGTO THE IDLE POSTION WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED, CREATING APOTENTIAL FOR LOSS OF CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL ANCHOR PLATE UNDER BASE OF THROTTLE; HEATED ENGINE COOLANT WILL BE FLOWED THROUGH AN ADAPTER PLATE TO ELIMINATE ICE FORMATION ON THE THROTTLE BLADE.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Dodge Raider problems:

1987 DODGE RAIDER ..what are all the major issues? : r/4x4
1987 DODGE RAIDER ..what are all the major issues? : r/4x4
https://www.reddit.com/r/4x4/comments/1927gto/1987_dodge_raider_what_are_all_the_major_issues/

Jan 9, 2024 ... 1987 DODGE RAIDER ..what are all the major issues? I heard parts are hard to find but it's a 4G Mitsubishi engine and same as Mitsubishi pajero.

1989 Dodge Raider Comments (r71447)
1989 Dodge Raider Comments (r71447)
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/dodge/raider/r71447/comments/

Feb 20, 2006 ... I had the same problem with my Raider. It turned out to be the air temperature sensor: which tells the ECM the air temperature. This helps with ...

Anyone have a dodge raider or 2dr Montero? Pro's con's. We're in ...
Anyone have a dodge raider or 2dr Montero? Pro's con's. We're in ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/4x4/comments/48y9nq/anyone_have_a_dodge_raider_or_2dr_montero_pros/

Mar 4, 2016 ... Anyone have a dodge raider or 2dr Montero? Pro's ... Luckily I've had little problems with it ... common. The other main thing I can think of ...

Q&A: 1989 Mitsubishi Montero ECM/PCM Issues - Dodge Raider ...
Q&A: 1989 Mitsubishi Montero ECM/PCM Issues - Dodge Raider ...
https://www.justanswer.com/mitsubishi/7nvs9-mitsubishi-montero-3-0-1989-mitsubishi-montero-3-0.html

Mar 28, 2013 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

Dodge Raider Questions - How difficult is it to locate engine for an ...
Dodge Raider Questions - How difficult is it to locate engine for an ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t61601_ds835793

Nov 20, 2017 ... They all had cylinder head issues and block issues from the counter balance shafts and they had nylon timing tensioner guides that would wear ...

Other years of Dodge Raider

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Raider 1986
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dodge raider 1987 photo
Raider 1987
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dodge raider 1989 photo
Raider 1989
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1989 Dodge Raider photo