1989 Dodge Spirit problems
The Dodge Spirit is a midsize automobile marketed by Dodge from the 1989 to the 1995 model years. The singular successor of the Dodge Aries, Dodge Lancer, and the Dodge 600 (initially marketed alongside the former), the Spirit was slotted between the Shadow and the Dynasty within the Dodge product line. In contrast to its predecessors, the Spirit was sold exclusively as a four-door notchback sedan.
The Spirit used the Chrysler AA platform, an extended-wheelbase variation of the Chrysler K platform. A design used across all three Chrysler divisions, the Spirit was marketed with alongside the Plymouth Acclaim and the 1990-1994 Chrysler LeBaron sedan. The model line was exported to Europe under the Chrysler Saratoga nameplate.
Chrysler assembled the Spirit alongside the Acclaim and LeBaron sedan at Newark Assembly (Newark, Delaware) and Toluca Car Assembly (Toluca, Mexico). The final example was produced on December 9, 1994. For 1995, the Dodge Stratus replaced the Spirit.
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Common 1989 Dodge Spirit problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1989 Dodge Spirit, common problems with this car include:
- Oil Pump Problems: There have been concerns about the oil pump binding, which can result in the bracket breaking or the gears on the shaft getting stripped. Aftermarket pumps are available as replacements for the original pumps.
- Electrical Wiring Issues: Complaints have surfaced regarding the wiring harness behind the valve cover, with reports of oil contamination and potential damage. Additionally, issues with splices and fuse-able links in the wiring harness behind the battery have been noted, affecting the operation of components like the gauge cluster and starter.
- Transmission Reliability: Some owners have expressed the need for a smoother and more reliable transmission option, particularly for V6 AA-Body models, suggesting a preference for a three-speed automatic transmission over the UltraDrive system after 1992.
- Rust: One of the major concerns with the Dodge Spirit has been rust issues, which have been highlighted as a significant downfall of the vehicle. Rust can affect the structural integrity and aesthetics of the car, leading to potential safety and maintenance issues.
These problems reflect common issues faced by owners of the 1989 Dodge Spirit, impacting various aspects of the car's performance, reliability, and overall driving experience.
What car replaced the Dodge Spirit?
Chrysler assembled the Spirit alongside the Acclaim and LeBaron sedan at Newark Assembly (Newark, Delaware) and Toluca Car Assembly (Toluca, Mexico). The final example was produced on December 9, 1994. For 1995, the Dodge Stratus replaced the Spirit.
What was the Plymouth version of the Dodge Spirit?
The Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim (also sold as one model of the Chrysler LeBaron and, outside the US, as the Saratoga) provided reliable transportation in a traditionally styled four-door sedan from 1989 to 1995. They were available with the 2.5, 2.5 turbo, 2.2 turbo, and 3.0 V-6.
Why was Dodge discontinued?
The Decision to Discontinue
Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has announced that the current versions of the Charger and Challenger will be their last, at least for the foreseeable future. Production officially ended in December 2023 due to the parent company's transition to cleaner and more efficient electric vehicles (EVs).
What is the top speed of the Dodge Spirit?
It features heavy-duty parts, including a four-pinion differential, to handle the stress from the turbo motor. The final drive ratio is 2.74:1, giving the Spirit R/T an advertised top speed of 142 mph and a city/highway fuel economy of 19/ 27. Don't expect to get that kind of mileage with the turbo spooled up, though.
What car replaced the Dodge Spirit?
Chrysler assembled the Spirit alongside the Acclaim and LeBaron sedan at Newark Assembly (Newark, Delaware) and Toluca Car Assembly (Toluca, Mexico). The final example was produced on December 9, 1994. For 1995, the Dodge Stratus replaced the Spirit.
How many Dodge Spirit RT were made?
Production: 1,208 were sold in America — 774 in red and 434 in white.
What was the Plymouth version of the Dodge Spirit?
The Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim (also sold as one model of the Chrysler LeBaron and, outside the US, as the Saratoga) provided reliable transportation in a traditionally styled four-door sedan from 1989 to 1995. They were available with the 2.5, 2.5 turbo, 2.2 turbo, and 3.0 V-6.
Why did they stop making Dodge?
The Decision to Discontinue
Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has announced that the current versions of the Charger and Challenger will be their last, at least for the foreseeable future. Production officially ended in December 2023 due to the parent company's transition to cleaner and more efficient electric vehicles (EVs).
1989 Dodge Spirit car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Spirit problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Seat belts problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Dodge Spirit vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Dodge Spirit complaints
The NHTSA has received 25 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Dodge Spirit.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-22
- VIN: 1B3BA7635KF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ODOMETER QUIT WORKING BUT SPEEDOMETER STILL WORKS, NEED ODOMETER FOR UPDATE ON STATE INSPECTION. *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-06
- VIN: 1B3BA46K6KF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE A 1989 DODGE SPIRIT (WHITE IN COLOR). ABOUT 3 OR 4 MONTHS AGO IT STARTED PEELING PAINT OFF OF IT. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE RODE WHEN I HEARD THIS WEIRD RIPPING NOISE. I LOOKED IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR TO SEE WHITE FLAKES FLYING OFF OF MY CAR, SO I PULLED OFF IN A PARKING SPOT & GOT OUT TO SEE WHAT WAS HAPPENING & ALL I SAW WAS A LARGE SPOT ON THE ROOF OF MY CAR WHERE PAINT CAME OFF. IT HAS CONTINUED TO DO SO EVER SINCE. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-24
- VIN: 1B3BA46K6KF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND INFORMED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS THE IDLE CONTROL MOTOR. NLM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-01
- VIN: 1B3BA46K3K5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SUSPENSION HAS A HAIRLINE CRACK WHICH CAUSES THE REAR END TO DROP. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-14
- VIN: 1B3BA46K4KF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 467. CONSUMER HAS DEFECTIVE ENGINE GASKETS THAT LEAK ALL AROUND THE VALVE COVER. DEALER CONTACTED, AND VEHICLE DOES NOT COMPLY TO RECALL DUE TO VIN. PROBLEMS STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN PARKED ON AN INCLINE VEHICLE WILL NOT SHIFT FROM PARK UNLESS DRIVER STARTS ENGINE AND PRESSES THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, AND THEN SHIFTS IT INTO PARK. WHEN RELEASING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WOULD HAVE TO TRY TAKING IT OUT OF PARK AT THE SAME TIME, OR IF SOMEONE ROCKS VEHICLE FROM THE BACK. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-19
- VIN: 1B3BA76J2KF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ON THE TRANSMISSION IT IS VERY SLOW SHIFTING BETWEEN 1ST AND 2ND. ALSO THE REVERSE WENT OUT COMPLETELY,AND HAD TO GET THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT FOR $1019. NOW THE PROBLEM IS OCCURRING AGAIN. HE SHIFTER IS MADE OF PLASTIC, AND IT'S BEGINNING TO WEAR AWAY, AND WILL SHIFT FROM DRIVE TO NUETRAL BY ITSELF ON OCCASION. ALSO, IT IS VERY HARD TO GET IT OUT OF PARK. IN ADDITION, ENGINE LEAKING OIL FROM SOMEWHERE, AND THERE IS A NEW SPOT UNDER THE CAR ON THE FLOOR WITH OIL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BA76J2KF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS DETERMINED TO HAVE A FAILING HEAD GASKET BY WEST LIBERTY DODGE, 1561 WEST LIBERTY AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15226, (412) 343-1300. THIS FAILURE WOULD SEEM TO BE COVERED BY NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 89V237000, HOWEVER NEITHER THE DEALER NOR CHRYSLER WILL ACKNOWLEDGE THE EXISTENCE OF THE RECALL. THIS REPAIR WILL COST $500+. WOULD LIKE ASSISTANCE TO MAKE THE DEALER/MANUFACTURE COMPLY WITH THE RECALL. YOU MAY CONTACT ME BY PHONE AND SEND MY VEHICLE INFORMATION TO THE DEALER/MANUFACTURER IF NECESSARY. THANK YOU.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B3BA76J7KF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE HEAD GASKET FAILED FOUR TIMES IN FIVE YEARS. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE REAR AXLE SHAFT BROKE, THE ROD ASSEMBLY MAKES A LOUD NOISE , CONTACT DEALERSHIP NO PARTS AVAILABLE, CANNOT DRIVE VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FLOOR SHIFT LEVER WILL NOT LOCK WHEN IN PARK, CAUSED VEHICLE TO ROLL BACXKWARDS. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-02-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RACK AND PINION REPLACED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-03-03
- VIN: 1B3BA46J2KS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT HOLDS THE REAR AXLE IS CRACKED. *AK CONSUMER STATES REAR TRAILING ARM FAILURE.*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: 1B3BA56K6KF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT BUCKLE HAS WHERE IT SAYS "PRESS", A PIECE BROKEN AND THE SEATBELT WILL NOT UNLATCH. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: 1B3BA56K6KF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT BUCKLE HAS WHERE IT SAYS "PRESS", A PIECE BROKEN AND THE SEATBELT WILL NOT UNLATCH. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: 1B3BA56K6KF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT BUCKLE HAS WHERE IT SAYS "PRESS", A PIECE BROKE OFF AND THE SEATBELT WILL NOT UNLATCH. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER AUTO CAUGHT FIRE AND THE ENGINE BURNED-AFTER BEING DRIVEN APPROX 10 MILES. AUTO WAS TURNED OFF WHEN THE FIRE STARTED-CONSUMER WAS NOT INJURED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B3BA76J7KF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING AND GAS TANK CAUGHT ON FIRE.THE TRUNK NEAR REAR SEAT WAS ON FLAMES.THIS OCCURED WITH NO WARNING. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE FRONT ROTORS ARE WARPED NEED TO BE REPLACED THE BRAKE HOSE ON BOTH ARE CRACKED. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE FRONT ROTORS ARE WARPED NEED TO BE REPLACED THE BRAKE HOSE ON BOTH ARE CRACKED. TT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-15
- VIN: 1B3BA46K8KF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS BECOME UNSEALED CAUSING CONDENSATION AND WATER TO COLLECT INSIDE HEAD LAMP; IMPAIRED HEADLIGHTS REFLECTIVE ABILITY. TT
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-16
- VIN: 1B3BA56J4KF
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR STABILIZER BAR FAILED, CAUSING NOISE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-19
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SWAY BAR SNAPPED. PLEASE EXPLAIN. TT
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-07-01
- VIN: 1B3BA76J0KF
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: SPEAKERS INOPERATIVE. *AW
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-19
- VIN: 1B3BA56KXKF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: EXCESSIVE EFFORT IS REQUIRED TO REMOVE LEVER FROM PARK POSITION WHENEVER VEHICLE IS PARKED ON DECLINE/INCLINE. *AK
1989 Dodge Spirit recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1989 Dodge Spirit.
- 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: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: THE ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKET MAY DISLOCATE AND ALLOW AN ENGINE OIL LEAK AT THE GASKET.
- Consequence: THE LEAKAGE OF OIL IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD CAUSEA FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE GASKET COVER WITH REVISED COVER, AND RTV SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED IN PLACE OF A GASKET.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Dodge Spirit problems:
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