Plymouth Satellite problems

General information about Plymouth Satellite
Plymouth Satellite years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Plymouth Satellite is a mid-size automobile introduced in the 1965 model year as the top trim model in Plymouth's "B" platform Belvedere line. Available initially in two-door hardtop and convertible models, the Satellite remained the top-of-the-line model until the 1967 model year. A station wagon version was added and a higher "Sport" trim introduced.

The Fury name was moved to Plymouth's mid-size models for 1975, at which time the Satellite name was discontinued.

First generation (1965-1967)

When the new, larger Plymouth Fury was introduced for 1965 on Chrysler's full-size C platform, the Plymouth Belvedere name was moved to Plymouth's "new" mid-size line for 1965. The Belvedere Satellite was the top trim model in the series, above the Belvedere I and II. It was available in two-door hardtop or convertible versions. Bucket seats and a center console were standard equipment, as well as a V8 engine. For 1965, the standard engine was the 273 cu in (4.5 L) with optional 318 cu in (5.2 L), 361 cu in (5.9 L), as well as 383 cu in (6.3 L) and 426 cu in (7.0 L) "Commando" engines. This 426 had the wedge combustion chamber design and is not the 426 "Hemi" that was offered in 1966. The front end featured single headlights on each side, and a grille divided into four thin rectangles laid horizontally.

The 1965 Satellite two-door hardtop total production was 23,341 units. It weighed 3,220 lb (1,460 kg) with a base price of $2,612 ($25,254 in 2023 dollars ). Convertible production was 1,860 units. It weighed 3,325 lb (1,508 kg) and was priced at $2,827 in standard trim ($27,333 in 2023 dollars ).

The 1966 redesigned Satellite was available with a "Street Hemi" engine with two 4-barrel carburetors and 10.25:1 compression. This engine was rated at 425 hp (317 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 490 lb⋅ft (664 N⋅m) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The other V8 engine options for 1966 remained the 180 hp (130 kW) 273, the 318 at 230 hp (170 kW), as well as the 265 hp (198 kW) Commando 361 and Commando 383 at 325 hp (242 kW), down from its 330 hp (250 kW) rating in 1965.

The 1967 Satellite was a carryover from 1966, but there were several trim changes. A new grille featured dual side-by-side headlights, a change in the rear trunk finish panel and taillights included multiple horizontal ribs. New horizontal aluminum trim at the lower body crease with lower silver paint gave all 1967 Satellites essentially a two-tone paint scheme. For 1966 and 1967, the interior vinyl seats and door panels were treated to a unique 'Western Scroll' design which mimicked tooled leather in appearance. This was the 'premium' interior shared with the GTX in 1967. For 1966 and 1967 the Satellite was again offered only in 2-door hardtop and convertible body styles and was powered by V8 engines. The 361 was discontinued for the 1967 models, but a 2-barrel 383 producing 270 hp (200 kW) was optional, as well as 4-barrel version rated at 325 hp (242 kW).

Production figures for 1966 were 35,399 hardtops and 2,759 convertibles.

photo of Plymouth Satellite car production

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Plymouth Satellite model years

Satellite 1971

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Complaints

Recalls

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Common Plymouth Satellite problems

The Plymouth Satellite is a car model with a history of certain common problems that have been reported by its owners. One of the issues is related to the tail lights, which have been criticized for their design and attachment method. The 1972 Satellite tail lights feature two vertical dividers held on by big-headed screws, making them look like leftover parts from the previous year's model. This design choice has been seen as a cost-cutting measure that negatively impacts the car's appearance, making it look awkward and unattractive.

Another issue reported by Plymouth Satellite owners is electrical problems. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant malfunctions that affect the car's overall functionality. For instance, a Reddit user reported having problems with the electrical system in their Grandpa's 1974 Plymouth Satellite Sebring, where half of the electronics quit and it wouldn't even start.

The Plymouth Satellite's styling has also been a subject of criticism. While some argue that the Satellite's styling was superior to that of the Torino or Chevelle, others suggest that it lacked a distinct Plymouth identity, making it less memorable than its competitors. The car's design may have worked against it, as it didn't clearly convey its brand identity, which could have contributed to its lower popularity compared to other models in its class.

It's worth noting that the Plymouth Satellite's longevity may have been affected by its use as fleet cars, which are not typically treated with the same care and maintenance as personal vehicles. This could lead to earlier wear and tear and a shorter lifespan for the Satellite.

In summary, the Plymouth Satellite has faced several common problems, including issues with tail light design, electrical malfunctions, and a lack of distinct brand identity. These issues have contributed to the car's reputation and may have impacted its overall popularity and longevity.

How much is a Plymouth Satellite worth?

A: The average price of a Plymouth Satellite is $39,545. Q: When was the Plymouth Satellite produced? A: The Plymouth Satellite was sold for model years 1965 to 1974.

Was the Plymouth Satellite a muscle car?

A Little History

The Plymouth Satellite was a mid-sized car introduced in the 1965 model year as the top trim model in Plymouth's “B” platform Belvedere line. In 1967, Plymouth announced the Belvedere GTX, to be positioned as a “gentleman's” muscle car.

What was the Dodge equivalent to the Plymouth Satellite?

The 1967 Dodge Coronet 500 (top image) and Plymouth Satellite were roughly comparable models.

What motor was in the Plymouth Satellite?

Sport Satellites started with a mild 230-horsepower 318 and ended with optional 383 V-8s packing 300 or 330 horsepower. All rode a typical Chrysler chassis with acclaimed torsion-bar front suspension and available power front-disc brakes.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Plymouth Satellite years

We have researched Plymouth problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Plymouth Satellite cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Plymouth Satellite model years:

Plymouth Satellite 1971

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

Distribution of the number of complaints by Plymouth Satellite years

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

Plymouth Satellite car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Tires problems

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

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Plymouth Satellite . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Plymouth Satellite vehicles.

List of Plymouth Satellite complaints

Plymouth Satellite 1971

Date Of Incident: 2011-06-30
Date Complaint: 2011-08-02
Components: TIRES
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1971 PLYMOUTH SATELLITE EQUIPPED WITH DILLACP TR-413 255/45/17 TIRES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER NOTICING A RECCURING FAILURE WITH THE TIRES, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD FAULTY VALVE STEMS AND THEY WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VALVE STEMS WERE REPLACED. THE DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 147,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 160,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

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Latest 5 recalls Plymouth Satellite

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the Plymouth Satellite.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.