Is the 1982 Plymouth Reliant reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 1982 Plymouth Reliant?

The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1982 Plymouth Reliant have?

4 recalls on file for this model year.

1982 Plymouth Reliant

○ Not enough data

1982 Plymouth Reliant
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:45:23.257Z

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 2
Recalls: 4
Investigations: 3
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

1982: 2 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1981	2
1982	2
1983	1
1984	1
1985	5
1986	4
1987	10
1988	16
1989	7
1990	1

Known problem areas

Only 2 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Seat belts

1 of 2 total reports mentions: seat belts, most commonly citing buckle assembly.

Show complaint excerpts

The drivers seatbelt buckle is broken and it does not latch. Please describe. Tt

NHTSA ODI report, 1995-12-21

Exterior lighting

1 of 2 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.

Show complaint excerpts

Severe loss of turn signal fluid.

NHTSA ODI report, 2008-04-25

Safety timeline

4 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

1981-10-06Vehicle speed control81V111000 The automatic speed control switch may stick in the "Resume" Position restricting return movement. This will not allow the normal brake pedal operation to deactivate the system.

Remedy: The shield portion of the "Resume" Slide lever in the speed control unit will be replaced without charge.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

1982-06-04Service brakes, hydraulic82V063000 The brake hydraulic system bay be equipped with brake fluid containing an excess of water.

Remedy: Dealer will replace defective brake fluid without charge to owner.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

1982-06-09Suspension82V055000 Clamp bolts installed on certain vehicles may contain cracks. Eventually these bolts may break through, causing separation of the ball joint from the steering knuckle.

Remedy: Dealer will replace both ball joint stud clamp bolts without charge to owner.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
1984-11-14Preliminary evaluationClosed 1985-07-31 Engine compartment fires
I
1989-03-01Preliminary evaluationClosed 1989-03-29 Frame corrosion
R

1989-06-29Suspension89V052000 Front suspension crossmember may corrode and fail at lower control arm rear pivot mounts if operated where salt is used to aid in snow removal.

Remedy: Install attachment reinforcement brackets to prevent control arm detachment as a result of corrosion weakening.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
1990-12-10Engineering analysisClosed 1991-12-31 Trans park system failure

Buy-smart checklist

1982 Plymouth Reliant — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Seat belts: 1 report on file for this year.
Exterior lighting: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 81V111000 · Vehicle speed control
Recall 82V063000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
Recall 82V055000 · Suspension
Recall 89V052000 · Suspension

FAQ

Is the 1982 Plymouth Reliant reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1982 Plymouth Reliant?: The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1982 Plymouth Reliant have?: 4 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-08-10 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.