Is the 1986 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 1986 Plymouth Reliant?

The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 75% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1986 Plymouth Reliant have?

2 recalls on file for this model year.

1986 Plymouth Reliant

○ Not enough data

1986 Plymouth Reliant
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:45:44.102Z

Only 4 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 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

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

Complaints per year

1986: 4 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 4 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Engine and engine cooling

3 of 4 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing belts and associated pulleys and gasoline.

Vehicle speed control

1 of 4 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.

Structure

1 of 4 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing frame and members.

Show complaint excerpts

Axle dropped, causing loss of steering/control.

NHTSA ODI report, 1995-05-25

Also filed under Power train

Steering

1 of 4 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing steering wheel/handle bar.

Power train

1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing axle assembly.

Safety timeline

2 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first

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

R

1986-03-26Electrical system86V053000 Battery cap vents may be partially or completely blocked with plastic flashing.

Remedy: Rework batteries by probing both vent orifices to eliminate any vent obstruction.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
1987-11-17Engineering analysisClosed 1988-05-18 Seat attachment
I
1988-05-18CClosed 1989-10-30 Seat attachment failure
I
1990-12-10Engineering analysisClosed 1991-12-31 Trans park system failure
R

2008-05-22Suspension08E033000 Federal mogul is recalling 6,903 aftermarket ball joint assemblies shipped between November 9, 2007 and March 26, 2008, which may have been packaged with incorrect nuts. The part numbers packaged…

Remedy: Federal mogul will notify owners and replace the parts free of charge. The recall began on May 22, 2008. Owners can contact federal mogul at 877-489-6659.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

1986 Plymouth Reliant — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
Structure: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 86V053000 · Electrical system
Recall 08E033000 · Suspension

FAQ

Is the 1986 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 1986 Plymouth Reliant?: The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 75% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Plymouth Reliant have?: 2 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.