1979 Plymouth Horizon problems
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.
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Common 1979 Plymouth Horizon problems
The Plymouth Horizon, produced between 1978 and 1990, was a budget-friendly subcompact car known for its practicality and fuel efficiency. However, like any car, it had its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common issues with the Plymouth Horizon is related to its engine. The Horizon was initially equipped with a 1.7-liter Volkswagen EA827 engine, which was later replaced by Chrysler's 2.2-liter engine. The 1.7-liter engine, in particular, has been criticized for its lack of power and reliability, with some owners reporting issues such as overheating and head gasket failures. The 2.2-liter engine, while more powerful, has also had its share of problems, including issues with the timing chain and tensioner, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Another common problem with the Plymouth Horizon is related to its transmission. The Horizon was available with both manual and automatic transmissions, but both have been known to cause issues. Manual transmissions have been reported to have synchronizer problems, which can make shifting difficult and lead to premature wear. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, have been known to slip or fail entirely, which can be expensive to repair.
The Horizon's suspension and steering systems have also been reported to cause problems for some owners. The car's front-wheel-drive system, while innovative for its time, has been known to cause issues with the suspension and steering, particularly during hard maneuvering. Some owners have reported issues such as excessive body roll, poor steering feel, and even complete suspension failure.
The Horizon's interior and electrical systems have also been reported to cause problems for some owners. The car's interior has been criticized for its lack of durability, with some owners reporting issues such as broken dashboard components and failing seat adjusters. The Horizon's electrical systems have also been known to cause issues, particularly with the car's wiring and electrical components. Some owners have reported issues such as failing headlights, blown fuses, and even complete electrical failures.
In summary, while the Plymouth Horizon was a practical and fuel-efficient car, it was not without its share of problems. Common issues reported by owners include engine and transmission problems, suspension and steering issues, and problems with the interior and electrical systems. As with any car, it is important to perform regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Who made the engine in a Plymouth Horizon?
Volkswagen
Their 1980 Horizon came from the early run of the Omni-Horizon twins, before Chrysler even had its own four-cylinder engine for it. As a result, Volkswagen provided the engine–Rabbit engines punched out to 1.7 liters–and four-speed transmissions.
What year did they stop making the Plymouth Horizon?
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.
Was Plymouth owned by Ford?
Plymouth was a brand of automobiles produced by Chrysler Corporation and its successor DaimlerChrysler. The brand was launched in 1928 to compete in what was then described as the "low-priced" market segment that was dominated by Chevrolet and Ford.
Did Plymouth make a 350 engine?
In 1958, the optional engine was a "big block" 350 cu in (5.7 L) called the "Golden Commando" with two four-barrel carburetors producing 305 hp (227 kW).
Who made the engine in a Plymouth Horizon?
Volkswagen
Their 1980 Horizon came from the early run of the Omni-Horizon twins, before Chrysler even had its own four-cylinder engine for it. As a result, Volkswagen provided the engine–Rabbit engines punched out to 1.7 liters–and four-speed transmissions.
What year did they stop making the Plymouth Horizon?
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.
Was Plymouth made by Ford?
Plymouth was a brand of automobiles produced by Chrysler Corporation and its successor DaimlerChrysler. The brand was launched in 1928 to compete in what was then described as the "low-priced" market segment that was dominated by Chevrolet and Ford. It became a high-volume seller for the automaker until the late 1990s.
What is a Plymouth Horizon?
Based on a French design, but built in America. By Murilee Martin. Plymouth.
1979 Plymouth Horizon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Plymouth Horizon problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Plymouth Horizon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1979 Plymouth Horizon complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Plymouth Horizon.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-10
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HATCHBACK LATCH FAILURE, CAUSING BABY TO BE EJECTED FROM VEHICLE. (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT)*SD
1979 Plymouth Horizon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1979 Plymouth Horizon.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUEL LINE HOSES INSTALLED ON CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE FABRICATED FROM A DEFECTIVE RUBBER COMPOUND. WHEN SUBJECTED TO CONTINUOUS HIGH UNDERHOOD TEMPERATURES, THESE HOSES MAY BECOME BRITTLE AND CRACK.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE FUEL SUPPLY AND VAPOR RETURN HOSES WITH A TYPE CONSTRUCTED OF HIGH TEMPERATURE-RESISTANT MATERIAL.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: THE ALTERNATOR FIELD WIRING TERMINAL CONNECTIONS ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY LOOSEN DUE TO VIBRATION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN AN OPEN CIRCUIT CONDITION. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, ALTERNATOR ELECTRICAL OUTPUT TO SUPPORT THE VEHICLES ELECTRICAL LOADS AND THE BATTERY CHARGING SYSTEM WOULD BE LOST. THIS WOULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN OBVIOUS MALFUNCTIONS OF VARIOUS ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS (DIMMING OF LIGHTS, REDUCTION IN RADIO VOLUME, ETC.).
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL AN ALTERNATOR REPAIR KIT WHICH INCLUDES A NEW ALTERNATOR WIRING HARNESS AS WELL AS NEW TERMINALS. DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE VEHICLE FOR THE PRESENCE OF A REQUIRED SECOND ALTERNATOR GROUND STRAP AND ADD ONE IF NECESSARY.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Summary: THE WHEEL MOUNTING NUTS INSTALLED MAY BE INCORRECT DUE TO A SUPPLIER ERROR IN MIXING STANDARD THREAD NUTS WITH SPECIFIED METRIC THREAD NUTS PRIOR TO PLANT SHIPMENT. AS A RESULT, THE NUT THREADS MAY STRIP WHEN TIGHTENED TO THE SPECIFIED TORQUE LEVEL RANGE, WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR THE LOOSENING OF A ROAD WHEEL.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE EXISTING NUTS WITH THE PROPER METRIC THREAD NUTS, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1979 Plymouth Horizon problems:
'87 Plymouth Horizon Low Idle Stall | Allpar Forums
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Apr 6, 2018 ... ... problem early on; my Dad couldn't shift out ... I had either forgot or never known that Plymouth-rocketship-in-pentagon variant. ... My first new ...
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