Home / PLYMOUTH / RELIANT

Plymouth Reliant Problems

The Plymouth Reliant was a compact K-car produced by Chrysler from 1981 to 1989. With 134 total complaints on record, engine and cooling system issues dominate with 40 complaints, followed by vehicle speed control concerns. The late 1980s model years (1986-1988) show the highest concentration of problems. While this vehicle helped save Chrysler from bankruptcy, it had documented reliability issues typical of the era.

134
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
10
Model Years
2
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1988
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1981 1982 1983

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 40
Vehicle Speed Control 16
Structure 12
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 12
Steering 10

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
1990 2 0 0 0 Good
1989 14 0 4 2 Average
1988 46 0 12 2 Avoid
1987 24 0 0 0 Below Average
1986 18 0 0 2 Average
1985 16 0 0 2 Average
1984 2 0 0 2 Good
1983 2 0 0 0 Good
1982 4 0 0 0 Good
1981 6 0 0 0 Good

Plymouth Reliant Years to Avoid

1988, 1987, 1986

Best Plymouth Reliant Years

1990, 1984, 1983

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Plymouth Reliant?

Engine and engine cooling issues dominate with 40 complaints. Vehicle speed control problems (16 complaints), structural concerns (12 complaints), and hydraulic service brake issues (12 complaints) are also documented.

Which Plymouth Reliant model years should I avoid?

Avoid the 1988 model year with 46 complaints, 1987 with 24 complaints, and 1986 with 18 complaints. These years account for 66% of all Reliant complaints.

What are the best years for the Plymouth Reliant?

The 1990, 1984, and 1983 model years each have only 2 complaints, making them relatively more reliable choices among Reliant options.

Are Plymouth Reliant engine problems serious?

Engine and cooling issues represent the largest complaint category with 40 reports. Given the age of these vehicles (35+ years), any remaining examples should have comprehensive mechanical inspections before purchase.