1988 Plymouth Acclaim problems

Common 1988 Plymouth Acclaim problems

The 1988 Plymouth Acclaim, a model from the same generation as the Plymouth Reliant, is known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues include excessive fuel consumption, worn ball joints, torn constant velocity boots, seized alternators, leaking power steering, problems in the steering column, worn brake pads, and minor suspension problems.

Excessive fuel consumption is one of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1988 Plymouth Reliant, with one complaint specifically mentioning this issue. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty fuel injector, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or a dirty air filter. It is essential to diagnose and address the root cause of this problem to ensure the vehicle's fuel efficiency and prevent further engine damage.

Another common problem with the 1988 Plymouth Acclaim is worn ball joints, which can lead to a failed safety inspection. This issue is critical for the vehicle's handling and safety, as worn ball joints can cause excessive tire wear, steering wobble, and even steering failure. Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and replacing worn ball joints, is crucial to ensure the car's safe operation.

Torn constant velocity boots are another frequent problem reported by Plymouth Acclaim owners, with one review specifically mentioning this issue shortly after purchasing the car. These boots are essential for protecting the constant velocity joints, which allow the wheels to turn smoothly and efficiently. When torn, they can allow dirt and debris to enter the joint, causing damage and reducing the vehicle's performance. Regular inspections and timely replacement of torn constant velocity boots are essential to maintain the car's optimal performance and prevent more severe issues.

Seized alternators are also a common problem with the 1988 Plymouth Acclaim, as mentioned in one review. A seized alternator can cause various issues, such as difficulty starting the car, dim headlights, and a dead battery. Regular maintenance, including checking the alternator belt and replacing it when necessary, can help prevent this problem. If the alternator does seize, it will need to be replaced to restore the vehicle's electrical system to proper functioning.

Leaking power steering is another issue reported by Plymouth Acclaim owners. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as a worn power steering pump, a damaged power steering hose, or a leaking power steering rack. Regular inspections and timely replacement of worn or damaged power steering components are essential to maintain the car's optimal performance and prevent more severe issues.

Problems in the steering column, such as a faulty steering column switch, are also common with the 1988 Plymouth Acclaim, as mentioned in one review. This problem can cause various issues, such as difficulty steering, a steering wheel that is off-center, or a steering column that does not lock in place. Regular inspections and timely replacement of faulty steering column components are essential to maintain the car's optimal performance and prevent more severe issues.

Worn brake pads and minor suspension problems are also common issues reported by Plymouth Acclaim owners. Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and replacing worn brake pads and inspecting the suspension system for any issues, is crucial to ensure the car's safe operation and prevent more severe issues.

In summary, the 1988 Plymouth Acclaim is known to have several common problems, including excessive fuel consumption, worn ball joints, torn constant velocity boots, seized alternators, leaking power steering, problems in the steering column, worn brake pads, and minor suspension problems. Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking and replacing worn or damaged components, is essential to maintain the car's optimal performance and prevent more severe issues.

Why did Plymouth cars fail?

Final years: 1990s–2001

By the 1990s, Plymouth had lost much of its identity, as its models continued to overlap in features and prices with its sister brands, Dodge and Eagle. Chrysler attempted to remedy this by repositioning Plymouth to its traditional target market as the automaker's entry-level brand.

When did they stop making the Plymouth Acclaim?

Acclaim (and Dodge Spirit) production ended on December 9, 1994, after a short 1995 model year and the Cab-forward Plymouth Breeze was introduced as a replacement for 1996. The Acclaim was one of the last K-car derivatives produced by Chrysler.

What was the last Plymouth car made?

Bring a Trailer is running an auction for the last Plymouth vehicle ever built, a 2001 Neon LX that rolled off the line in June 2001. The Neon in question is a single-owner car with 68 miles showing on the digital odometer.

Is Dodge and Plymouth the same?

Dodge and Plymouth have made the same cars for years. They are the same company, (DaimlerChrysler), different 'brands'. Cars like the Dodge Daytona and Plymouth Sundance were the same body style with different accessory packages.

1988 Plymouth Acclaim car problems categorized by type of issue

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

• Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Plymouth Acclaim vehicle components and the number of complaints received.