1991 Plymouth Laser problems
The Plymouth Laser is a two-door 2+2 sports coupe sold by Plymouth from 1989 until 1994. The Laser and its siblings, the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon, were the first vehicles produced under the newly formed Diamond-Star Motors, a joint-venture between the Chrysler Corporation and the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Overview
Introduced as "the first Plymouth of the '90s" in advertising, the Plymouth Laser debuted in January 1989 as a 1990 model. The company produced a Chrysler Laser model from 1984 to 1986. The 2-door hatchback was based on the Dodge Daytona model prior to the name badge moving, to the Plymouth brand. Commercials for the 1990 Laser featured R&B singer Tina Turner who appeared in a series of 1990 promotional ads for Plymouth. With three available engines, two transmission offerings, and sporty "aero" styling, the Laser was the most performance-oriented Plymouth since the Barracuda, Duster, and Road Runner muscle cars of the 1970s.
Despite its close resemblance to its Mitsubishi and Eagle siblings, it has several unique styling cues intended to set it apart from the other two. Apart from badging, Lasers sport a race-inspired look, with a plastic panel in the place of a grille, a full rear light-bar, a bulge on the hood for 2.0 L engine models (not necessarily turbocharged), and available stylish "lace" patterned alloy wheels. Rallye Sport (RS), models are set apart from the base models by their black roof with body-colored targa band, power steering, lower bodyside accent striping, and dual power mirrors, as well as an array of options not available on base Lasers.
Base model Lasers carry a 92 hp (69 kW) 1.8 L four-cylinder engine, whereas a 135 hp (101 kW), 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder was optional with the Laser RS. The top-of-the-line RS Turbo came equipped with a 2.0 L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rated at 195 hp (145 kW). A 5-speed manual transmission was standard. A 4-speed automatic was optional, except with the turbocharged engine, which could only be ordered with the manual transmission until 1991 models debuted.
Social links
Common 1991 Plymouth Laser problems
The Plymouth Laser, produced between 1990 and 1994, is known for its sporty performance and Japanese-American heritage.
- Idle speed fluctuations and near-stalling: Some owners have reported that their 1991 Plymouth Laser experiences an issue where the idle speed goes up and down constantly after a few minutes of driving. This can cause the car to nearly stall, even when the throttle is fully engaged. This problem can be challenging to diagnose, especially when there is no check engine light to provide any codes. A new ECU may fix the no-start problem, but it might not solve the idle issues.
- Torque steer: The 1991 Plymouth Laser, with its front-wheel-drive layout and significant power, can suffer from torque steer. Torque steer is the tendency of a vehicle to pull to one side under acceleration due to the uneven distribution of engine torque between the front wheels. This issue can make the car difficult to control and cause unnecessary strain on the drivetrain.
- Rust: Rust is a common problem with many vehicles, especially those from the 1990s. The 1991 Plymouth Laser is no exception. Areas that are prone to rusting include the undercarriage, wheel wells, and any body panels that have been damaged or scraped. Rust can cause structural issues, reduce the vehicle's value, and lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
- Mechanical and cosmetic issues: Normal wear and tear can lead to various mechanical and cosmetic problems in the 1991 Plymouth Laser. These issues can range from worn-out suspension components and leaking seals to faded paint and cracked interior plastics. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these problems before they become more severe.
- Turbo and O2 sensor replacement: Some owners have reported that their 1991 Plymouth Laser requires a new turbocharger and O2 sensors. These components are crucial for the vehicle's performance and emissions control. If they fail or wear out, they can cause various issues, including poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.
- SRS light on: The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light, which indicates issues with the vehicle's airbag system, can illuminate due to various reasons, including faulty sensors, wiring issues, or airbag module problems. Addressing this issue is essential for the vehicle's safety and compliance with regulations.
In summary, the 1991 Plymouth Laser, like any vehicle, has its share of common problems. These issues range from idle speed fluctuations and torque steer to rust and mechanical wear. Regular maintenance, inspections, and timely repairs can help ensure the vehicle's longevity and performance.
How fast is the Plymouth Laser?
Several enthusiast magazines have tested the Laser and have clocked acceleration from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds or less. That's fast – brutally fast. Power is, for the most part, smooth and consistent all the way to about 6,500 rpm.
How many Plymouth lasers were made?
The automatic became optional on all-wheel drive RS models for 1993, and the model soldiered on unchanged in its final year for 1994. In total for those five years on the market, Plymouth shifted over 115,000 Lasers.
What engine does a 1990 Plymouth Laser have?
Used 1990 Plymouth Laser - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.8 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 92 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
What year was the Chrysler Laser made?
During the 1980s, the Chrysler Laser stood out as one of the more upscale and well-equipped models. Chrysler produced the Laser for just three model years from 1984 to 1986.
How fast is the Plymouth Laser?
Several enthusiast magazines have tested the Laser and have clocked acceleration from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds or less. That's fast – brutally fast. Power is, for the most part, smooth and consistent all the way to about 6,500 rpm.
How many Plymouth lasers were made?
Model year changes
| 1990 | 42,105 |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 24,094 |
| 1993 | 14,300 |
| 1994 | 5,284 (production halted mid-year) |
| Total | 115,981 |
What engine does a 1990 Plymouth Laser have?
Used 1990 Plymouth Laser - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.8 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 92 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
How much is a 1994 Plymouth Laser?
$43/Month* *Estimated payments based on Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price of $2,051 at 3.19% APR for 60 months with $0 down for well-qualified buyers.
1991 Plymouth Laser car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Plymouth Laser problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Plymouth Laser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1991 Plymouth Laser
The NHTSA has received 38 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Plymouth Laser. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1991 Plymouth Laser vehicles.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-23
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 PLYMOUTH LASER. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE HUBCAPS ON THE VEHICLE BEGAN SPINNING AND INEVITABLY CUT THE VALVE STEM OFF OF HIS TIRE. SPEED WAS NOT A FACTOR DURING THE FAILURE. THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS LOST AND THE RISK OF A SERIOUS CRASH WAS INCREASED. PEP BOYS STATED THAT THEY WOULD NOT ASSUME FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE REPAIR. THE EQUIPMENT INFORMATION AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 220,000. UPDATED 3/11/09 *CN THE VALVE STEM WAS FAULTY WHICH CAUSED THE TIRE TO FAIL. UPDATED 03/16/09. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-24
- VIN: 4P3CS44UXME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I SEE QUITE A FEW LASERS,ECLIPSES,AND TALONS THAT HAVE THE TELLTALE BLUE SMOKE TRAIL BEHIND THEM.BUT MINE ALSO SEEMS TO BE BUILDING UP EXHAUST, AND EMITTING A LARGE CLOUD OF WHITE SMOKE UPON RESTARTING
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4P3CS44ROME
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MECHANICAL (SUSPENSION, R.F.) REPAIRED W/USED/REMAN. PARTS. LOCAL PLYMOUTH DEALER'SSERVICE MANAGER WAS OF NO HELP CONCERNING POSSIBLE UNANNOUNCED RECALL.ALSO, I CHECKAD PLYMOUTH/MITSUBISHI (DSM MOTORS) WEBSITE FOR ANY RECALL INFO (NONE). MY VEHICLE ALSO SUSTAINED MODERATE SHEETMETAL (BODY) DAMAGE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T2ME
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE HATCHBACK SUPPORT RODS FAIL TO HOLD THE LIFTGAGE IN THE RAISED POSITION. *MJS
INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T2ME
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE INTERIOR LIGHTS DO NOT COME ON WHEN THE DOOR IS OPENED ON OCCASIONS. *MJS
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T2ME
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT WORK. *MJS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T2ME
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A SHORT IN THE FUSE BOX CAUSES THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER TO NOT WORK. *MJS
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T2ME
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SEAT DOES NOT MOVE FORWARD OR BACKWARD. *MJS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-04
- VIN: 3C3XA5638MT
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS AUTO HAS A MITSUBISHI ENGINE AND DRIVE TRAIN WITH WHICH I HAVE HAD DIFFICULTIES SINCE ORIGINAL PURCHASE
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-27
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE PULLING INTO THE GAS STATION THE CROSSMEMBER BROKE AND SNAPPED OFF THE VEHICLE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-03
- VIN: 4P3CS44R3ME
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT MOTOR PROBLEM CAUSES THE SHOULDER BELT TO LATCH, TO GO BACK AND FORTH IN ITS TRACK FROM THE MOST REAR POSITION TO ABOUT 5 INCHES FORWARD.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-16
- VIN: 4P3C534TOME
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH WHEN HOOD UNLATCHED UNEXPECTEDLY, CAUSING THE HOOD TO SMASH INTO THE WINDSHIELD AND HIT THE ROOF OF VEHICLE, ALMOST RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT AND PERSONAL INJURIES. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- VIN: 4P3CS44U8ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TURBO-CHARGER FAILED TWICE. ALSO ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING VEHICLE TO STALL. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-11
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL WORK NOT COMPLETED DUE TO LACK OF PARTS,SEAT BELT REPAIR.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-08
- VIN: 4P3CS44R9MF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BRODLIEB MOTORS CHRYSLER 653. DEALER CLAIMS PARTS HAVE NEVER BEEN ORDERED AND WRONG PARTS RECEIVED IN SHIPMENT FROM MMNUFACTURING CO. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-26
- VIN: 4P3CS44R8ME
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE HOOD FLEW OPEN, SHATTERING THE WINDSHIELD AND DAMAGING THE ROOF OF THE VEHICLE. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS34T5ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTERMITTENT STALLING CONDITION. SERVICE CONTRACT WAS STILL IN EFFECT WHEN PROBLEM FIRST OCCURRED, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO CORRECT IT AND THE CONTRACT HAS SINCE EXPIRED. OWNER WANTS TO KNOW IF CHRYSLER IS STILL OBLIGATED TO FIX THE PROBLEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-16
- VIN: 4P3CS44R4ME
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-16
- VIN: 4P3CS44R4ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-16
- VIN: 4P3CS44R4ME
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR FAILED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-19
- VIN: 4P3CS34T5ME
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, VEHICLE STALLS, ECM FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON THEN CAR STALLS. FIXED A FAILED ELECTRONIC CONTROL MUDULE BUT STALLING CONTINUED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS44V8ME
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE SWAY BAR BODY BRACKET WHICH CONTROLS THE REAR SUSPENSION AND HOLDS THE UNDERCARRIAGE ON THE CENTER LINE HAS BROKEN FOR NO APPARENT REASON, THIS IS A NON-REPLACEABLE PART, MUST BE REPAIRED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4P3CS44R2ME
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER'S CAR HAD BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR SEVEN DAYS UNDER THE RECALL(OCT. 15-23,1996) AND THE WORK WAS NOT PREFORMED . (WESTBORN CHRYSLER PLYMOUTH DEALERSHIP; RECALL 95V103003). *AK CONSUMER STATES THE BELT WIRES WERE CUT AND TAPED THAT THE RECALL HAD NOT BEEN DONE CORRECTLY. TECHNICIAN STATED THAT VEHICLE HAD NO BREAKS. *SLC
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-10-15
- VIN: 4P3CS44R8ME
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HATCHBACK SUPPORTS FAIL TO HOLD LIFTGATE IN RAISED POSITION.
1991 Plymouth Laser recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Plymouth Laser.
- 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.
Negative 1991 Plymouth Laser car reviews
Positive 1991 Plymouth Laser car reviews
-
If you're looking for a car that's definitely fun to drive, quick, and handles great, then buying one of these is a great choice! However, if you need a vehicle with lots of space for traveling or other purposes, then this may not be the best option. These cars typically fall into the performance two-seater category.
-
This is such a fun car!
-
Hey there! That's a really cool car you have there! It seems like it's both fast and fun to drive!
-
I can see that you had a '92 Talon TSi and you love this little Laser about as much. It's great to hear that it sits, rides, and handles like a little race car.
-
It sounds like you had a great experience with the car! The smooth ride and overall performance must have made for a really enjoyable drive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Plymouth Laser problems:
Q&A: 1993 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo Problems
Apr 29, 2008 ... I have a 93'' plymouth laser and have problems with cold starts... It starts up and dies and after four or five times - Answered by a ...
1g popup headlight problem | DSMTalk Forums: Mitsubishi Eclipse ...
May 29, 2002 ... DSMTalk Forums: Mitsubishi Eclipse, Plymouth Laser, and Eagle Talon Forum ... Is this a common problem ... Posted by 91-Tsi-Awd Updated Oct 8, 2003.
1G - ECU Problems | DSMtuners.com
Jan 11, 2018 ... Laserfreak said: Hi,just sign up and I was wondering if anybody would know were the sensor ground is located in the ecu for a 1991, Plymouth ...
1993 Laser has no Spark, won't start. | DSMTalk Forums: Mitsubishi ...
Feb 7, 2006 ... Are there any common problems related to spark I should check for? ... 90 plymouth laser 1.8 90 mitz eclipse gs 2.0 ... 91-94 dist. are the same.
Cruise Control | DSMtuners.com
May 21, 2002 ... The most common problem I know of is the vacuum hose breaking at the actuator. ... I have a very similar issue ... 1991 Plymouth ...
Other years of Plymouth Laser
Are you having problems with your 1991 Plymouth Laser?
Raoul Rogahn 2024-03-28
Your car has a decent performance and looks nice, but unfortunately, it has not been very reliable and has required multiple repairs, including the timing belt breaking three times.