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Plymouth Breeze Problems

The Plymouth Breeze was a compact sedan produced from 1996 to 2000, sharing its platform with the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus. The model experienced significant reliability problems throughout its short production run, with engine and cooling system issues being the most prevalent. The early model years (1996-1998) were particularly troublesome, generating the majority of owner complaints. The Breeze was discontinued when Plymouth was phased out by Chrysler.

1,738
Total Complaints
5
Total Recalls
6
Model Years
6
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2000 2002

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 596
Steering 176
Power Train 170
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 162
Electrical System 114

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2002 4 0 0 0 Good
2000 84 1 2 52 Good
1999 306 1 38 60 Average
1998 402 1 46 26 Average
1997 406 1 20 20 Average
1996 536 1 50 4 Below Average

Plymouth Breeze Years to Avoid

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Best Plymouth Breeze Years

2002, 2000

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Plymouth Breeze?

The most frequently reported issues involve engine and engine cooling problems, steering concerns, power train issues, hydraulic service brakes, and electrical system failures. Engine problems account for 596 complaints alone.

Which Plymouth Breeze years should I avoid?

The 1996 model year leads with 536 complaints, followed by 1997 (406), 1998 (402), and 1999 (306). These years experienced widespread engine cooling and steering problems.

What are the best years for the Plymouth Breeze?

The 2000 and 2002 model years have significantly fewer complaints with 84 and 4 complaints respectively. However, given the overall reliability concerns, caution is advised for any Breeze model year.

Why does the Plymouth Breeze have so many engine problems?

The Plymouth Breeze suffered from head gasket failures, cooling system issues, and engine overheating problems that were common to the Chrysler cloud car platform. These 596 engine-related complaints represent a fundamental design issue with the vehicle.