1991 Plymouth Sundance problems
The Dodge Shadow and Plymouth Sundance are compact 3-door and 5-door hatchbacks that were introduced for the 1987 model year by the Chrysler Corporation. For 1991, a 2-door convertible variant was added to the Shadow lineup; this bodystyle was not offered by Plymouth. The Sundance/Shadow replaced the Omni/Horizon models of their respective marque.
The first vehicle rolled out of Sterling Heights Assembly on August 25, 1986. In late 1988, production of the Mexican market version called the Chrysler Shadow began at Toluca Car Assembly. The Shadow/Sundance was also sold in Europe from 1988 to 1991 as the Chrysler ES. Production ended on March 9, 1994, with the Shadow/Sundance being replaced by the Dodge / Plymouth Neon.
Design
The Shadow/Sundance employed a variant of the K-car platform, the P-body, which was based on a combination of the Dodge Daytona's suspension (alongside some of its interior styling cues) with a shortened version of the Dodge Lancer's body. It had originally been intended as a direct replacement for the earlier Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon, but with the economy segment becoming more crowded after the recent introductions of Hyundai (and Yugo) to the US market, Chrysler chose to make the car a bit more substantial. The P platform, being a cut down version of the regular K platform, was also a bit heavier than the competition. The lineup also had more equipment across the board than expected for the class, at least until the 1991 introduction of the stripped-down America model.
While they appeared to have a trunk, it was actually a hatchback. Chrysler considered this a special feature and advertising literature referred to it as "hidden hatchback versatility"; the relatively large storage capacity of these vehicles was a major selling point for the company. The Peugeot 309 which had been developed to replace the European Chrysler Horizon used a similar layout. While mechanically identical, the Sundance and Shadow were differentiated by their front grill, which featured brand consistent designs, Dodge using a crosshair design and Plymouth an "egg crate" design. They also had different tail lamps. In its final year, the Shadow featured the new Dodge ram's head emblem on the hood, replacing the corporate pentastar.
In the original lineup, the three-door only Shadow ES was the sportiest model, only available with the turbocharged engine and with wider rims and tires than other models.
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Common 1991 Plymouth Sundance problems
The Plymouth Sundance, introduced in 1987, was a compact car built on the P-platform, also known as the AP-platform. It was available in both 3-door and 5-door liftback versions, with the only sedan models being the later convertibles.
However, the Sundance had its fair share of common problems, as reported by its owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues was the tendency for the paint to peel on the roof, even after relatively low mileage. For instance, one owner mentioned that their 1994 Sundance had this issue after only 350,000 kilometers, despite having no major problems or repairs with the 2.2-liter engine.
Another common problem with the Sundance was related to the speed sensor on post-redesign P-bodies, which tended to go bad, particularly those made before 1992. This issue was addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), and some owners reported that they were able to fix the problem by squeezing the connector with pliers so that the sockets would grip the terminals on the sensor.
The suspension of the Sundance was also a source of complaints, with some owners reporting that the ride was too stiff, leading to a harsh ride that was often compared to a hay wagon. This was particularly true for cars with the ES package, which came with better tires that were designed to improve handling and reduce body roll. However, these tires also contributed to a stiffer ride, which some owners found to be uncomfortable.
The interior of the Sundance was another area where owners reported problems. Some noted that the fit and finish was subpar, with issues such as a frequently skipping CD player. Others reported that the interior was cheaply made, with low-quality materials that were prone to wear and tear.
Finally, some owners reported problems with the transmission, particularly with the 3-speed automatic. Some reported that the transmission would slip or hesitate, leading to a less than optimal driving experience. This issue was not as widespread as some of the other problems mentioned, but it was still a source of frustration for some owners.
In summary, the Plymouth Sundance was a compact car that was known for its big 2.2-liter engine and nice interior features. However, it also had its fair share of common problems, including peeling paint, issues with the speed sensor, a stiff ride, subpar interior fit and finish, and transmission problems. Despite these issues, the Sundance remained a popular car, thanks in part to its affordable price and decent fuel economy.
Where was the Plymouth Sundance made?
Dodge Shadow | |
---|---|
Also called | Chrysler ES Chrysler Shadow Plymouth Sundance |
Production | August 1986 – March 1994 |
Model years | 1987–1994 |
Assembly | United States: Sterling Heights, Michigan (Sterling Heights Assembly) Mexico: Toluca, Mexico State (Toluca Car Assembly) |
How much horsepower does a Plymouth Sundance Turbo have?
Powertrain specs
Engine type | 2.2 L Turbo I turbo I4 |
---|---|
Power | 148 ps (146 bhp / 109 kw) @ 5200 rpm |
Torque | 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3600 rpm |
Power / liter | 67 ps (66 hp) |
Power / weight | 121 ps (120 bhp) / t |
Who makes the Sundance car?
Sold for the 1987 through 1994 model years, the Sundance was Plymouth's compact sedan and coupe, which would collectively replace the Horizon, Turismo, and Reliant, as these vehicles were phased out between 1987-1990.
When did they stop making Plymouth?
June 29, 2001
Plymouth (automobile)
Product type | Automobile, vans, trucks |
---|---|
Produced by | Chrysler Corporation DaimlerChrysler |
Introduced | July 7, 1928 by Walter Chrysler (94 years ago) |
Discontinued | June 29, 2001 |
Related brands | Dodge |
Where was the Plymouth Sundance made?
Dodge Shadow | |
---|---|
Also called | Chrysler ES Chrysler Shadow Plymouth Sundance |
Production | August 1986 – March 1994 |
Model years | 1987–1994 |
Assembly | United States: Sterling Heights, Michigan (Sterling Heights Assembly) Mexico: Toluca, Mexico State (Toluca Car Assembly) |
How much horsepower does a Plymouth Sundance Turbo have?
Powertrain specs
Engine type | 2.2 L Turbo I turbo I4 |
---|---|
Power | 148 ps (146 bhp / 109 kw) @ 5200 rpm |
Torque | 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3600 rpm |
Power / liter | 67 ps (66 hp) |
Power / weight | 121 ps (120 bhp) / t |
Who makes the Sundance car?
Sold for the 1987 through 1994 model years, the Sundance was Plymouth's compact sedan and coupe, which would collectively replace the Horizon, Turismo, and Reliant, as these vehicles were phased out between 1987-1990.
Who is Plymouth made by?
Chrysler Corporation
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.
1991 Plymouth Sundance car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Plymouth Sundance problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seats problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Plymouth Sundance vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1991 Plymouth Sundance
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Plymouth Sundance. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1991 Plymouth Sundance vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: 1P3XP24D2MN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SERPENTINE BELT ASSOCIATED WITH ALTERNATOR SLIPS FROM PULLEY ASSEMBLY WHEN IN CONTACT WITH WATER IS MADE. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMINED VEHICLE, AND REPLACED BELT. CONSUMER CONCERNED THAT WHEN BELT SLIPS FROM ASSEMBLY, LOSS OF POWER WOULD OCCUR, AND VEHICLE COULD BE DIFFICULT TO MANAGE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-17
- VIN: 1P3XP24DOMN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER ON OTHER PEOPLE'S SAME MODEL CAR HAD SAME PROBLEM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XP24DXMN
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: PEELING PAINT IS CAUSING ADHESIVE AROUND THE WINDSHIELD TO COME LOOSE. OWNER IS CONCERNED BECAUSE THIS COULD CAUSE WINDSHIELD TO COLLAPSE. MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED ABOUT THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER NFORMATION. *AK
STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- VIN: 1P3XP28D5MN
- Components: STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: IF YOU CAN'T HELP ME WITH THE PAINT, PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHO CAN. WAS THERE ANY RECALL ON PAINTING FOR PLYMOUTHS? I SEE MANY SUNDANCES ON THE ROAD WITH THE SAME PROBLEM PEELING AS MINE. ALSO, SOME SPOTS WHERE PEELING OCCURRED, IS NOW RUSTING. AS FOR THE HOOD, REPLACEMENT SHOCKS I PURCHASED HELPED HOLD TRUNK UP AGAIN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XP28D1MN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: STALLS DAILY - HAVE REPLACED HOSES, BATTERY, FILTERS, ETC.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1P3XP28D5MN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HATCHBACK STRUTS FAIL TO KEEP LID UP, FALLS EVERYTIME ITS OPENED CAUSING SERVERE BACK INJURY TO OWNER. *YC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACELERATION WHILE BACK BACKING OUT OF A PARKING (VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE CRUISE CONTROL) CAUSING VEHICLE TO HIT BETWEEN ANOTHER VEHICLE AND A TREE. DEALER/MFR. WAS NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1P3XP28D5MN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HATCHBACK STRUT RODS FAILED CAUSING INJURY TO CONSUMER'S SPINAL COLUMN. MJS
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TORSION BAR WELDING BROKE IN REAR AXLE CAUSING NOISE AND BAD PERFORMANCE. QCAW
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
- VIN: 1P3XP48KXMN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT LOW RATE OF SPEED (35-40MPH), CAN HEAR CLANGING NOISE NEAR AXLE AREA. TOOK TO MECHANIC & WAS INFORMED PLATE BEHIND AXLE WAS CRACKED & DRIVER WOULD HAVE LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XT2805MN
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE LIFTGATE SUPPORT THAT HOLDS UP THE TRUNK RELEASED, CAUSING TRUNK TO FALL ON CONSUMER BACK. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-03
- VIN: 1P3XP24DXMN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DEALERSHIP HAD TO ORDER NEW SEAT BECAUSE BEFORE RECALL NOTICE BOLT HAD ALREADY BROKEN. THIS WAS IN AUG OF 1997. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALERSHIP ABOUT ONCE A WEEK, STILL HAS NOT PROVIDED SEAT. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XG4K8MN5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL PUMP FAILED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-18
- VIN: 1P3XP44D4MN
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE SUSPENSION BAR THAT RUNS FROM RIGHT TO LEFT BRAKE CRACKED, CAUSING GRINDING. OWNER HAS DIFFICULTY CONTACTING MANUFACTURER. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-04
- VIN: 1P3XP24D2MN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 15 MPH THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BACK COLLASPED BACKWARDS. THE BOLTS COMPLETELY SHEARED OFF. VEHICLE WAS LEFT AT DEALERSHIP. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XP44DXMN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR HATCHBACK LIFT GATE FALLS DOWN DUE TO SUPPORT RODS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RECALL WORK WAS PERFORMED, VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO CUSTOMER WITH MORE PROBLEMS THAN BEFORE, DEALER DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-01
- VIN: 1T3XT2D12MN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE REAR AXLE IS CRACKED. *AK CONSUMER STATES THE AXLE WAS CRACKED CAUSING VEHICLE TO FLEX WHEN PLACED UNDER STRAIN DURING NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS.*JB
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XP28D9MN
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE REAR HOOD LATCH FAILED AND DURING HEAVY RAIN THE CAR HAD A WATER LEAK. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-01-01
- VIN: IP3XP44K7MN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD THE LIFTBACK DOES NOT STAY IN OPEN POSITION/NEEDS TO BE PROPPED WITH A STICK OOR BOX. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-12
- VIN: IP3XP24D5MN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND THE MOTOR MOUNTS FELL OFF THE VHEICLE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-23
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BUSINESS AREA HAD BROKEN WATER LINE; ROAD WAS ICY; ANOTHER VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, SLID INTO REAR OF VEHICLE, AIRBAG POPPED OUT, DID NOT INFLATE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-23
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BUSINESS AREA HAD BROKEN WATER LINE; ROAD WAS ICY; ANOTHER VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, SLID INTO REAR OF VEHICLE, AIRBAG POPPED OUT, DID NOT INFLATE. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1P3XP28D7MN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE BUCKET SEAT MOVES WHEN SITTING IN SEAT . TT
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-15
- VIN: 1P3XP48K9MN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S RECLINING SEAT BACK REST DOES NOT STAY UP ON ITS OWN; STABILIZED BY A MILK CART; ALLEGEDLY FIXED TWICE. TT
1991 Plymouth Sundance recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1991 Plymouth Sundance.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER SEAT CAN FAIL AND SEPARATE.
- Consequence: IF THE BOLT FAILS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, THE DRIVER COULD LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT WITH A HIGHER STRENGTH BOLT THAT INCLUDES A SELF LOCKING NYLON PATCH.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT CAN FAIL AND SEPARATE.
- Consequence: IF THE BOLT FAILS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, THE DRIVER COULD LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT WITH A HIGHER STRENGTH BOLT THAT INCLUDES A SELF LOCKING NYLON PATCH.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL ARMATURE STAMPING CAN CRACK AND SEPARATE FROM THE CENTER HUB ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING COLUMN.
- Consequence: IF THE STEERING WHEEL SEPARATES FROM THE CENTER HUB ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING COLUMN, LOSS OF CONTROL CAN OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING WHEEL FOR ARMATURE CRACKS IN THE CENTER HUB ATTACHMENT AREA. ANY STEERING WHEELS SHOWING CRACKS WILL BE REPLACED. ALL OTHER VEHICLES WILL HAVE A REINFORCEMENT PLATE INSTALLED TO PREVENT STEERING WHEEL SEPARATION IN THE EVENT CRACKING OCCURS.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
- Summary: FRONT DISC BRAKE CALIPER GUIDE PIN BOLTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY TORQUED AND COULD LOOSEN.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS AND COULDRESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: PROPERLY TORQUE FRONT BRAKE CALIPER GUIDE PIN BOLTS TO 250 POUNDS.
Negative 1991 Plymouth Sundance car reviews
Positive 1991 Plymouth Sundance car reviews
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I had to replace everything from the rear axle three times, the transaxle twice, the CV joints 4 times, and it was in the shop with constant mechanical and electrical problems. Despite taking care of our cars and being always on-time with maintenance, the engine blew--literally. Eventually, I sold it to a junkyard. It is important to note that the car was still exceptionally nice inside and out when it finally died.
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I have been extremely satisfied with this car as it has never let me down and has taken me everywhere I needed to go, even through the treacherous Michigan ice and snow where I passed SUVs that had slid off the road. Although it has started to rust along the edges and I had to replace the head gasket and rebuild the engine once, I have had wonderful transportation for over 13 years with incredible mileage, all for the original price of $8,600 plus ~$2200 for the above mentioned repairs. This was my first car, bought with my 're-adjustment money' after returning from the Peace Corps, and I plan to keep driving it until the very end. Hopefully, by the time it reaches 200,000 miles, there will be a selection of affordable USA made hybrids available!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the Horizons. I've actually owned 3 of them over the years and I've been really lucky with all 3. Recently, I bought a little Sundance with only 16,500 original miles and I couldn't be happier with it. It's a 1 owner car that looks like it's always been garaged and it's in mint condition. The underside has no rust, the motor compartment is super clean, and the interior looks like it's never been sat in. I'm confident that this car will last me well into retirement. It really feels like a car that was owned by a little old lady. Thanks for listening!
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Back in the spring of 1991, I was lucky enough to pick up a brand new black cherry Sundance as a company car. It was a fantastic little car with peppy performance, comfortable bucket seats, and a cool floor-mounted shifter with a center console. The car even had rear folding seats and a hatchback, which came in handy when I needed to move a full-sized couch. With gas mileage in the low 20s, it was a practical choice too. I absolutely loved that little Plymouth and had lots of fun in it, even doing some work on the go. The only issue I had was when I accidentally scraped the passenger side door against a tree - oops! If you're lucky enough to find one of these in decent condition, I highly recommend buying it.
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I've had mine for a year now and, even though it's old, it's still extremely reliable. It gets great gas mileage.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Plymouth Sundance problems:
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Makenna Hoeger 2025-01-08
I owned this car for 2 1/2 years and it had 104000 miles on it when I bought it. Although it had many problems, including bad exhaust, gas tank, no A/C, electrical, rack and pinion, computer chip, and brakes, I was impressed with how well it protected me in a car accident. I ran into a van that had run a stop sign, but the airbag went off and the car crumpled enough to cushion the impact, resulting in absolutely no interior damage. Overall, it's a good small car, but be prepared for potential problems.
Zechariah O'Conner 2024-03-10
When purchasing a used car, it is important to have a mechanic inspect it to ensure its quality. In my recent experience with a 1991 Sundance, the transmission failed due to lack of maintenance from the previous owner. While I cannot speak to the longevity of Chrysler/Plymouth transmissions, I would advise against purchasing a high mileage, poorly maintained Sundance. As a result of my experience, I have decided to sell the car after only 7 days of ownership.