1986 Plymouth Reliant
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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.
3 of 4 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing belts and associated pulleys and gasoline.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
AXLE DROPPED, CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING/CONTROL. *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19950525
Also filed under POWER TRAIN
1 of 4 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing steering wheel/handle bar.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing axle assembly.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 86V053000 — check if this car was fixed
SEAT ATTACHMENT
SEAT ATTACHMENT FAILURE
TRANS PARK SYSTEM FAILURE
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 WIT
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.
Campaign 08E033000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Plymouth Reliant — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 86V053000 (electrical system) has been completed.
- Verify recall 08E033000 (suspension) has been completed.
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.