Plymouth Caravelle problems

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The Plymouth Caravelle is a mid-size sedan that was introduced by Plymouth as a 1983 Canadian model. The Caravelle came to the United States in 1985 to replace the Chrysler E-Class. It was essentially identical to the concurrent Dodge 600. It was replaced by the Plymouth Acclaim in 1989. The Caravelle was Plymouth's first front wheel drive mid-size sedan.

The name of the vehicle was inspired by the word Caravel, a 15th-century sailing ship used by the Portuguese; the ship was noted for its speed and agility.

United States

For 1985, the Chrysler brand dropped its unsuccessful entry-level variant of the E platform, the Chrysler E-Class (the idea of a more mainstream Chrysler was not well received by consumers). Even though the Dodge 600 was mainstream, Dodges were not generally sold with Chryslers, so rather than only having the upscale New Yorker on Chrysler-Plymouth dealer lots, the former E-Class was given a new grille and rebranded as a Plymouth and thus the U.S. Caravelle was created. This model was slotted between the compact Reliant K and the large rear-wheel drive Gran Fury.

For its first year the Caravelle came in one trim level with a number of standard features, the Caravelle SE. These standard features including: AM/FM stereo, power windows, power locks, power adjustable mirrors, deck lid release, cruise control, air conditioning, and a 50/50 split front bench seat, with dual recliners. For 1986, the Caravelle was given a facelift, which rounded many of the sharp angles, giving it a more aerodynamic appearance. Also from 1986 onward, a base model was offered, without some of the standard features of the "SE". The Caravelle continued in the U.S. until 1988, when it was replaced by the new A body Acclaim for 1989. Unlike the identical Canadian Caravelle, a 2-door coupe model was never offered in the U.S.

photo of Plymouth Caravelle car production

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Plymouth Caravelle model years

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Caravelle 1988
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Caravelle 1987
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plymouth caravelle 1986 photo
Caravelle 1986
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plymouth caravelle 1985 photo
Caravelle 1985
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Common Plymouth Caravelle problems

The Plymouth Caravelle, a car produced by Volkswagen, is known for its spacious interior and high-quality design. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues. Here are some of the most common problems reported by Plymouth Caravelle owners:

  • Auto transmission issues: Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, such as "burnt out" transmissions or difficulty shifting gears. This issue is particularly common in 2001 Volkswagen Caravelles.
  • Fuel tank spills: Fuel tank spills have been reported in 1993 Volkswagen Caravelles, which can lead to fuel leaks and potential fire hazards.
  • Post-collision repairs: Repairs after collisions can be challenging, especially for models like the 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle, where finding compatible parts and maintaining the vehicle's structural integrity can be difficult.
  • Half shafts: Half shafts, which connect the wheels to the transmission, can fail around the 60,000-mile mark, causing issues with the vehicle's drivetrain.
  • Dual mass flywheels: Dual mass flywheels, which help smooth out engine power delivery, can fail, causing vibrations and reduced performance.
  • Driveshaft issues: Driveshaft problems have been reported in some Volkswagen Caravelles, which can lead to difficulty steering or controlling the vehicle.
  • Turbo boost leaks: Turbo boost leaks can occur in some Volkswagen Caravelles, causing reduced engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
  • Electric side doors: Some owners have reported issues with the electric side doors, such as difficulty opening or closing them, or problems with the central locking system.
  • Front screen demister: Issues with the front screen demister have been reported in some Volkswagen Caravelles, which can make it difficult to see during cold or wet weather.

It is important to note that not all Volkswagen Caravelles will experience these issues, and many owners report high levels of satisfaction with the vehicle's reliability and performance. However, being aware of these common problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions and take proactive steps to maintain their vehicle's health.

Plymouth Caravelle

Percentage distribution of complaints by Plymouth Caravelle years

We have researched Plymouth problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Plymouth Caravelle cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Plymouth Caravelle model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Plymouth Caravelle model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Plymouth Caravelle years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Plymouth Caravelle car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Plymouth Caravelle , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Electrical system problems

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

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Plymouth Caravelle . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Plymouth Caravelle vehicles.

List of Plymouth Caravelle complaints

Plymouth Caravelle 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-06
  • Date Complaint: 2007-07-09
  • VIN: 1P3BJ36K2JC
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 PLYMOUTH CARAVELLE. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A THUMP AND SMELLED RUBBER. SHE PULLED OVER AND DISCOVERED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR KUMHO TIRE WAS FLAT AND HAD BUBBLES ON THE SIDEWALL. THE TIRE SIZE WAS 1857R14-88T, WHICH WAS NOT AVAILABLE IN THE DROP DOWN MENU AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 134,077 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132.
Plymouth Caravelle 1987
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-23
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-30
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PUT IN DRIVE, IT STARTED TO ACCELERATE WITHOUT THE GAS PEDAL BEING PRESSED. CONSUMER HAD TO CONSTANTLY KEEP THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED. THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED SINCE MID DECEMBER 2003.*AK
Plymouth Caravelle 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-03-03
  • Date Complaint: 2001-03-05
  • VIN: 1P3BJ46K8JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING COLUMN BROKE LOOSE AND STEERING DROPPED DOWN IN LAP. TURNED OFF CAR, AND CAUSED CONSUMER NOT TO HAVE BRAKES. *AK THE CONSUMER SAYS MODELS OF SIMILAR MAKE AND YEAR HAD BEEN RECALLED AND THIS VEHICLE SHOULD BE RECALLED TOO. *YH
Plymouth Caravelle 1987
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-04-16
  • Date Complaint: 2000-05-10
  • VIN: 1P3BJ36K9HC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR WOULD NOT START. SOUNDED LIKE FUEL WAS NOT GOING THROUGH. CONSUMER REPLACED FUEL SYSTEM, AND PROBLEM IS REOCCURRING. *AK
Plymouth Caravelle 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2000-05-03
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CARBURETOR KEEPS FAILING, CAUSING VEHICLE TO STALL, AND WILL NOT PASS EMISSIONS. DEALER WILL PROVIDE A REBUILT CARBURETOR. BUT WILL ONLY GUARANTEE IT FOR 3 MONTHS. *AK
Plymouth Caravelle 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 1995-08-14
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: PURCHASE CAR USED CAR TO DEALER ABOUT SIX TIME WITH THE OIL LEAKING THE ENGINE NEED TO REPLACE. TT
Plymouth Caravelle 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 1995-06-06
  • VIN: 1P3BJ46K8JC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE REAR AXLE WELD JOINT IS BROKE WHILE DRIVING OVER 3" CURB AT 5 MPH AND AT AN ANGLE. *AK
Plymouth Caravelle 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 1995-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 1995-03-13
  • VIN: 1YVGD31C6K5
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE PLASTIC IN SIDE BUCKLE HAS BROKE CAN NOT LATCH SEAT. TT

Latest 5 recalls Plymouth Caravelle

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Plymouth Caravelle.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Plymouth Caravelle 1985
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Plymouth Caravelle 1988
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Plymouth Caravelle 1986
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Plymouth Caravelle 1987
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Plymouth Caravelle 1985
  • Report Received Date: 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.

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