1994 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.
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Common 1994 Plymouth Laser problems
The Plymouth Laser, introduced in 1990, was a compact sports coupe developed by Diamond Star Motors (DSM), a joint venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi. Despite its promising start, the Laser faced several common problems that affected its performance and reliability.
- Transmission and Drivetrain Problems: The Laser's transmission and drivetrain also experienced issues. Some owners reported problems with the automatic transmission, such as slipping and shifting issues. The front-wheel-drive system was also a concern, with some owners reporting issues with the differential and axles.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems were another common issue with the Plymouth Laser. Some owners reported issues with the instrument cluster, such as the oil pressure gauge not working correctly. This issue could be caused by a faulty oil pressure sending unit or wiring issues.
- Suspension and Steering Problems: The Laser's suspension and steering systems also experienced issues. Some owners reported problems with the steering rack, such as excessive play and noise. The suspension system also had issues, with some owners reporting problems with the struts and springs.
- Body and Interior Issues: The Laser's body and interior also had issues. Some owners reported problems with the interior trim, such as cracking and fading. The body also had issues, with some owners reporting problems with the paint, such as fading and peeling.
In summary, the Plymouth Laser experienced a variety of common problems, including engine issues, transmission and drivetrain problems, electrical issues, suspension and steering problems, and body and interior issues. These problems could lead to costly repairs and a decrease in the vehicle's reliability and performance. Despite these issues, the Laser remains a popular choice among automotive enthusiasts for its unique style and performance capabilities.
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.
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.
What year did the Plymouth Laser come out?
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.
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 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 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.
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 |
1994 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:
- Visibility problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Plymouth Laser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Plymouth Laser complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Plymouth Laser.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-11
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4P3CF44F8RE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH ASSEMBLY HOUSING EXPLODED, BLOWING TRANSMISSION AWAY FROM ENGINE, AND CAUSING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT IT APPEARS THAT THE BOLTS CAME LOOSE OR BROKE IN THE PRESSURE PLATE, CHRYSLER IS STATING THAT ALL THE FAILURES ARE NOT THEIR PROBLEMS, TWO PEOPLE WERE INJURED DUE TO SMOKE INHALATION. *SLC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-01
- VIN: 4P3CF44E8RE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: THIS IS THE WORST CAR I HAVE EVER PURCHASED, THERE IS A MITSUBISHI ENGINE IN THIS CAR AND MANY OTHER PEOPLE WHO HAVE 1994 LASERS, ECLIPSES OR TALONS HAVE BLOWN THE VALVES IN THEIR ENGINES AS WELL. I FEEL THIS IS CHEAPLY PUT TOGETHER AND I WOULD NEVER BUY ANOTHER CAR FROM PLYMOUTH. IN THE 1 YEAR AND 9 MONTHS I HAVE OWNED THIS CAR I HAVE PUT $4000.00 IN IT FOR ENGINE REPAIRS.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-05
- VIN: 4P3CF34B7RE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: STREAKS SEEMS TO APPEAR ON FRONT WINDSHIELD DURING RAINY WEATHER; WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT CLEAR WINDSHIELD; CAUSES POOR VISIBILITY; HAZARDOUS DRIVING. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-06-01
- VIN: 1P4GH4432RX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ANTI-LOCK BRAKE FAILURE. *AK
1994 Plymouth Laser recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1994 Plymouth Laser.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. LOCKUP OF THE TRANSFER CASE CAN OCCUR DUE TO INSUFFICIENT LUBRICATION.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR ADEQUACY OF THE TRANSFER CASE OIL VOLUME, TRANSFER CASE OIL LEAKAGE, AND OPERATIONAL DEGRADATION OF THE TRANSFER CASE MECHANISM. IF OIL VOLUME IS INSUFFICIENT, THE APPROPRIATE AMOUNT OF OIL WILL BE ADDED. IF THERE IS TRANSFER CASE OIL LEAKAGE, AFFECTED COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED. IF THE TRANSFER CASE SHOWS OPERATIONAL DEGRADATION, THE TRANSFER CASE WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1994 Plymouth Laser car reviews
Positive 1994 Plymouth Laser car reviews
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Great little sporty car! It has great mileage.
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The paint may not have held up over the years and the parking brake may not work as well as desired, but it's still a great car that gets excellent gas mileage.
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I bought it used at an auction with 118,000 miles on it for $3,500 and have had it for 4 years. It now has 218,000 miles on the car!!! I absolutely love it!
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It sounds like you have a fun car, but it's worth noting that DSM cars tend to have some quirks. Once you hit 100k miles, you may encounter some issues with the engine and transmission. On the bright side, the AWD really grips the road on curves and the turbo gives a nice kick to this little 4 banger, reminiscent of the muscle cars of the 60s.
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This car has been great for me, even though I had to replace the transaxle. It runs really well!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 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... ... This is the most common problem with this particular issue, so the best ...
2G - Common problems with Eclipse 420A? | DSMtuners.com
The Top DSM Community on the Web. For 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser, and Galant VR-4 Owners. Log in to remove most ads.
97 eclipse overheating problem, please help!!!!! | DSMTalk Forums ...
Oct 24, 2008 ... DSMTalk Forums: Mitsubishi Eclipse, Plymouth Laser, and Eagle Talon Forum ... Common problem on the 420a is the heater ... New radiator fixed it.
1G transmission problems | DSMtuners.com
Nov 14, 2013 ... For 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser, and Galant VR-4 Owners. ... 1G transmission problems ... :laser: Dsmer since 1994
Other years of Plymouth Laser
Are you having problems with your 1994 Plymouth Laser?
Keshaun Dibbert 2024-10-15
Hey there! So sorry to hear about your experience with the American car. It sounds like it caused you a lot of trouble and cost you a lot of money in repairs and replacements. I'm glad to hear that you were able to sell it, though, and hopefully the new teenage driver will have better luck with it. Thanks for sharing your story!
Kody Lueilwitz 2024-09-20
The vehicle frequently experiences breakdowns, requiring frequent repairs which can be quite inconvenient.
Benedict Douglas 2024-09-20
I bought my 'laser' a few months ago for a 'dirt cheap' price. Why? Because I couldn't get my Saturn past inspection for emissions. I am beyond happy with the quality of this 'dollar' car thus far ($550). I took it on a 1,000 mile road-trip a few weeks ago, mostly to see if it was up to the task. It was and is. Over that trip, I averaged 37 mpg with a 1.8 liter engine and 4-speed auto overdrive transmission. The car ran flawlessly, solid with no rattles, and handled very well.
Daron Schaden 2024-08-03
The head had to be redone twice due to bent valves caused by the timing being out. The second time, the harmonic balancer split in half, throwing the timing off and resulting in no compression on cylinder 4. Despite the body being in perfect condition, it seems that this particular motor is cursed. It may be time to consider other options.
Orin Simonis 2024-06-26
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a little story with you about my trusty car. Back in my sophomore year of college, I stumbled upon this amazing car that was both cool and affordable (I paid less than $4,800 in cash for it!). It's been such a great car for me, especially when it comes to gas mileage in the city. I've put a lot of miles on it in a short amount of time, but it's held up really well. The only downside is that it doesn't have cruise control, but that's a minor issue. The paint on the roof is starting to fade, but overall it still looks super. I'm actually in the market for a new car now, but it will be tough to say goodbye to my reliable little blue Laser! Thanks for listening to my story.