1984 Plymouth Reliant problems
The Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries are mid size cars introduced for model year 1981 as the first "K-cars" manufactured and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation. The Reliant and Aries were the smallest cars to have the traditional 6 passenger 2 bench seat with column shifter seating arrangement favored by customers in the United States (Chrysler marketed the car as being able to seat "six Americans"), similar to larger rear-wheel drive cars such as the Dodge Dart and other front-wheel drive cars such as the Chevrolet Celebrity. The Reliant was powered by a then-new 2.2 L I4 SOHC engine, with a Mitsubishi "Silent Shaft" 2.6 L as an option (this engine also featured hemispherical combustion chambers, and all 1981 models equipped with it featured "HEMI" badges on the front fenders). The Reliant was available as a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, or as a 4-door station wagon, in three different trim lines: base, Custom and SE ("Special Edition"). Station wagons came only in Custom or SE trim.
As rebadged variants, the Reliant and Aries were manufactured in Newark, Delaware, Detroit, Michigan, and Toluca, Mexico — in a single generation. After their introduction, the Reliant and Aries were marketed as the "Reliant K" and "Aries K". The Aries was sold as the Dart K in Mexico, and as the Michigan in Japan. The Reliant replaced the Plymouth Volaré/Road Runner, while the Aries replaced the Dodge Aspen.
The Reliant and Aries were selected together as Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1981. Initial sales were brisk, with both Reliant and Aries each selling over 150,000 units in 1981, with cumulative sales of million Aries and 1.1 million Reliant units over the nine-year run.
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Common 1984 Plymouth Reliant problems
The Plymouth Reliant, introduced in 1981, was a popular mid-size car known for its spacious interior and reliable engine options. However, as with any vehicle, there were common issues that owners reported over the years.
- Engine Racing and Fuel Leaks: A common problem with the 1984 Plymouth Reliant was engine racing and fuel leaks. In some cases, the engine would race even when the car was idling, causing the fuel to leak from various points in the engine bay. This issue could be caused by a faulty fuel pump, a malfunctioning carburetor, or worn-out engine components.
- Rust and Body Deterioration: The 1984 Plymouth Reliant was prone to rust and body degradation, especially in areas with harsh winter conditions or high humidity. The body of the car, including the doors, fenders, and trunk lid, could become rusted and difficult to open or close. This issue was often exacerbated by mice and other rodents that made their homes in the car, causing further damage to the interior and electrical components.
- Weak Brakes: Another common problem with the 1984 Plymouth Reliant was weak brakes. This issue could be caused by worn-out brake pads, a faulty brake booster, or a malfunctioning master cylinder. In some cases, the brakes could fail entirely, posing a significant safety hazard to the driver and other road users.
- Power Steering and Brake Booster Failure: The power steering and brake booster systems in the 1984 Plymouth Reliant were prone to failure. This issue could be caused by worn-out seals, leaking hydraulic fluid, or a malfunctioning pump. In some cases, the power steering and brake booster could fail entirely, making it difficult to steer or stop the car.
- Emissions System Issues: The 1984 Plymouth Reliant was equipped with an emissions system that included a canister purge line and fuel return hose. In some cases, these components could become clogged or damaged, causing the car to fail emissions testing or experience performance issues. This issue could be caused by a faulty fuel pump, a malfunctioning carburetor, or a clogged fuel filter.
In summary, the 1984 Plymouth Reliant was a reliable and spacious mid-size car that was popular among American drivers. However, like any vehicle, it was prone to certain issues, including engine racing and fuel leaks, rust and body degradation, weak brakes, power steering and brake booster failure, and emissions system issues. By addressing these issues promptly and maintaining the car regularly, owners could ensure that their 1984 Plymouth Reliant remained a safe and reliable mode of transportation.
How reliable is the Plymouth Reliant K?
The Chrysler K cars (Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant) were average in reliability for their time. They sold incredibly well, and combined with all the models they spawned, saved Chrysler from going out of business.
What was the Dodge version of the Plymouth Reliant?
The Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries are mid size cars introduced for model year 1981 as the first "K-cars" manufactured and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation.
What engine is in a Reliant?
| Reliant Robin | |
|---|---|
| Related | Reliant Regal Van Reliant Kitten Reliant Rialto |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 748 cc OHV I4 848 cc OHV I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual all-synchromesh |
How many miles per gallon does a Plymouth reliant K-car get?
1987 Plymouth Reliant K Overview
It gives mileage of 22 MPG in city and 29 MPG on highway.
How reliable is the Plymouth Reliant K?
The Chrysler K cars (Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant) were average in reliability for their time. They sold incredibly well, and combined with all the models they spawned, saved Chrysler from going out of business.
What was the Dodge version of the Plymouth Reliant?
The Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries are mid size cars introduced for model year 1981 as the first "K-cars" manufactured and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation.
What is the top speed of the Reliant?
The engine developed 180 brake horsepower (130 kW) and pushed the Valiant to a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
What engine is in a Reliant?
| Reliant Robin | |
|---|---|
| Related | Reliant Regal Van Reliant Kitten Reliant Rialto |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 748 cc OHV I4 848 cc OHV I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual all-synchromesh |
1984 Plymouth Reliant car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Plymouth Reliant problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1984 Plymouth Reliant vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1984 Plymouth Reliant complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1984 Plymouth Reliant.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-02
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER FILLING UP WITH GAS, NOTICED FIRE COMING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT, VEHICLE TOTALLED. TT
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-12
- VIN: 1P3BP26C3EC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BRACKET HOLDING LEFT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER PULLED AWAY FROM RUSTED ANCHORING SITE, CAUSING SHOCK ABSORBER FAILURE. *SKD
1984 Plymouth Reliant recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1984 Plymouth Reliant.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE POTENTIAL FOR FUEL LEAKAGE EXISTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT THE FUEL RESERVOIR SEAM AND ITS HOSE CONNECTIONS. THE FUEL RESERVOIR IS A SILVER COLORED CAN MOUNTED TO THE AIR CLEANER.
- Remedy: THE HOSES AND THE METAL TUBE THAT ATTACHES TO THE FUEL RESERVOIR WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEW COMPONENTS. THE DEALER WILL ALSO REPLACE OR RESEAL THE RESERVOIR.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1984 Plymouth Reliant problems:
1984 Plymouth Reliant Reviews - Carsurvey.org
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