1983 Plymouth Voyager problems

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Plymouth Voyager is a nameplate for a range of vans that were marketed by the Plymouth division of Chrysler. From 1974 until 1983, the Voyager was a full-size van, sold as the counterpart of Dodge Sportsman (later the Dodge Ram Wagon). Starting with the 1984 model year, the Voyager was marketed as one of the new Chrysler minivan, along with the Dodge Caravan. As a minivan, there were three generations of the Voyager from 1984 until 2000. Following the closure of the Plymouth division in 2000, the Voyager was marketed under the Chrysler brand as a lower-trim version of the Chrysler Town & Country through 2003.

From 1988 through 2016, Chrysler used the Chrysler Voyager name for export-market minivans; during the existence of the Plymouth brand, export-market Voyagers were produced with the body and trim of the Dodge Caravan. Including the Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan with their rebadged Chrysler, Lancia, and Volkswagen variants, the Chrysler minivans collectively rank as the 13th best-selling automotive model line worldwide.

The Plymouth Voyager minivan was assembled by Chrysler at its Windsor Assembly facility in Windsor, Ontario, Canada; from 1987 to 2000, the Voyager was also assembled at Saint Louis Assembly in Fenton, Missouri (North plant from 1987 through 1995; South plant from 1996 until 2000).

The full-size Plymouth Voyager van was assembled from 1974 until 1983 at the Pillette Road Truck Assembly in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri.

1983 Plymouth Voyager

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Common 1983 Plymouth Voyager problems

The Plymouth Voyager, introduced in 1983, was a game-changer in the automotive industry, creating an entirely new segment of front-wheel-drive minivans. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.

  • Performance Issues: The 1983 Plymouth Voyager was equipped with either a 2.2-liter Chrysler four-cylinder engine making 101 horsepower or an optional 99-hp Mitsubishi-sourced 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine. These engines were considered underpowered, leading to sluggish performance. This issue was further exacerbated by the van's heavy weight, making it challenging to accelerate or merge onto highways.
  • Transmission Problems: The Voyager's Torqueflite three-speed automatic transmission was also a source of complaints. Some owners reported issues such as jerking, slipping, and premature wear, which could lead to costly repairs. The transmission's inability to handle the engine's power also contributed to the vehicle's lackluster performance.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Despite being a smaller, front-wheel-drive vehicle, the Plymouth Voyager's fuel efficiency left much to be desired. The underpowered engines and heavy weight of the vehicle resulted in relatively low gas mileage, which was a concern for many owners, especially during periods of high fuel prices.
  • Interior Quality: Some owners reported issues with the interior quality of the 1983 Plymouth Voyager. The materials used in the cabin were often criticized for being cheap and flimsy, with plastic components prone to cracking or breaking over time. Additionally, the seating was not always comfortable, particularly on longer trips.
  • Ride and Handling: The Voyager's tall, boxy shape and high center of gravity contributed to poor handling and a less-than-smooth ride. The vehicle was prone to body roll in corners, and the steering was often described as vague and unresponsive. This made the Voyager less enjoyable to drive, especially when compared to contemporary cars or even other minivans.
  • Electrical Issues: Electrical problems were another common complaint among Plymouth Voyager owners. Issues such as flickering lights, intermittent electrical failures, and malfunctioning accessories were not uncommon. These problems were often difficult to diagnose and could result in costly repairs.
  • Noise and Vibration: The 1983 Plymouth Voyager was known for being noisy and prone to vibrations, particularly at higher speeds. The engine, transmission, and suspension components could all contribute to these issues, making for an uncomfortable driving experience.
  • Corrosion and Rust: The Voyager was susceptible to corrosion and rust, particularly in regions with harsh winter conditions or high humidity. This issue was not unique to the Voyager, as many vehicles from the 1980s suffered from similar problems due to the widespread use of poor-quality steel and inadequate rust protection measures.
  • Suspension and Steering Components: The Voyager's suspension and steering components were also a source of complaints. Some owners reported issues such as worn-out bushings, leaking struts, and loose steering, which could lead to poor handling and an uncomfortable ride.
  • Braking System: The braking system on the 1983 Plymouth Voyager was another area where problems were reported. Issues such as spongy or weak brakes, premature brake wear, and noisy brakes were not uncommon. These problems could lead to safety concerns and required regular maintenance and replacement of brake components.

In summary, the 1983 Plymouth Voyager, while revolutionary in its concept, had several common problems that affected its performance, fuel efficiency, interior quality, ride and handling, and overall durability. These issues, while not uncommon for vehicles of this era, could lead to costly repairs and a less-than-satisfying ownership experience.

1983 Plymouth Voyager engine

Where was the Plymouth Voyager made?

The Plymouth Voyager minivan was assembled by Chrysler at its Windsor Assembly facility in Windsor, Ontario, Canada; from 1987 to 2000, the Voyager was also assembled at Saint Louis Assembly in Fenton, Missouri (North plant from 1987 through 1995; South plant from 1996 until 2000).

How much is a Plymouth Voyager?

Q: What was the lowest recorded sale price for a Plymouth Voyager? A: The lowest recorded sale price was $3,500 for a 1992 chrysler grand voyager se "no reserve" on Feb 7 2023. Q: What is the average sale price of a Plymouth Voyager? A: The average price of a Plymouth Voyager is $5,040.

Do they still make Plymouth Voyagers?

The consumer model Chrysler Voyager was retired in 2021, but Voyager remains available to corporate customers as a fleet-only vehicle.

How much is a 1994 Plymouth Voyager worth?

$39/Month* *Estimated payments based on Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price of $1,807 at 3.19% APR for 60 months with $0 down for well-qualified buyers. For illustrative purposes only and not an offer/commitment to provide credit or financing.

Are Plymouth Voyagers good cars?

The Plymouth Voyager is a reliable, comfortable and economical vehicle to drive.

Are Chrysler Voyager reliable?

The Chrysler Voyager is excellent in dependability, but the best way to secure a dependable car is to pick one of the best years for the Voyager. There are many options available.

When did they stop making Plymouth Voyager?

2003

Chrysler debuted the Plymouth Voyager in 1984 alongside the Dodge Caravan, and was the industry's most successful product segment. Plymouth and the Voyager name were discontinued by Chrysler in 2003.

What was the first minivan in 1983?

No wonder Chrysler scored such a monumental sales hit when it introduced the first minivans to the United States market in 1983, for the 1984 model year: the Dodge Caravan and its corporate cousin, the Plymouth Voyager.

1983 Plymouth Voyager car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Plymouth Voyager problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Seat belts problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Plymouth Voyager vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Plymouth Voyager complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Plymouth Voyager.

1998-08-06

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-21
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: RECALL WORK NOT COMPETED DUE TO APPOINTMENT PROBLEMS, SEAT BELT BUCKLE AND ABS PISTON RECALLS.
1997-01-23

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 2P4GH2534PR
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WOULDN'T UNLOCK, DRIVER WAS LATCHED IN AND COULDN'T GET OUT . *AK
1995-10-23

POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-20
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2P4GH2537DR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT WILL NOT COME OUT OF BUCKLE. TT THE SEAT BELT WAS REPLACED. THE TRANSMISSION AND THE SPEED SENSOR WERE REPLACED. *YH
1995-06-26

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-25
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE SEAT BELT FAILED IN A VEHICLE CRASH CAUSING A FATALITY. TT

1983 Plymouth Voyager recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1983 Plymouth Voyager.

1982-10-05
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: IGNITION SWITCHES INSTALLED IN THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN DISTORTED DURING A CRIMPING OPERATION WHICH RESULTED IN THE INTERNAL PLASTIC CONTACT CARRIER OF THE SWITCH CRACKING. PIECES OF A CRACKED CARRIER MAY BREAK AWAY, PERMITTING ABNORMAL SWITCH ELECTRICAL CONTACT AND THE POTENTIAL FOR STARTER ACTUATON WHEN THE SWITCH IS TURNED TO THE ACCESSORY POSITION.
  • Remedy: ALL SUSPECT IGNITION SWITCHES WILL BE REPLACED WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Plymouth Voyager problems:

1980-83 Chrysler Cordoba/Dodge Mirada Problems | Allpar Forums
1980-83 Chrysler Cordoba/Dodge Mirada Problems | Allpar Forums
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Jul 1, 2014 ... ... 1983-84 Chrysler E-Class, 1984-90 Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager/Chrysler Town & Country). 5. Even when big car sales recovered in 1983, and ...

AWD Voyager issues? | The Chrysler Minivan Fan Club Forums
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Oct 18, 2010 ... Issues with a 74 plymouth satellite 318 - 2barrel carb - starting but starts to run rough at higher rpm's until when - Answered by a ...

Other years of Plymouth Voyager

plymouth voyager 1984 photo
Voyager 1984
Plymouth

23

6

0

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plymouth voyager 1985 photo
Voyager 1985
Plymouth

33

6

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
plymouth voyager 1986 photo
Voyager 1986
Plymouth

78

4

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
plymouth voyager 1987 photo
Voyager 1987
Plymouth

99

3

0

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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
plymouth voyager 1988 photo
Voyager 1988
Plymouth

116

5

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
plymouth voyager 1989 photo
Voyager 1989
Plymouth

199

5

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1983 Plymouth Voyager photo