1988 Dodge Dynasty LE review from North America

The ABS system has been malfunctioning since purchase. The pedal is spongy, and the system engages with every pedal application, regardless of how hard (or soft) the brakes are applied, and regardless of whether the wheels have locked up or not. Many repairs have been performed, but nothing has solved the problem.

The thermostat required replacement at 44,700 miles.

The shocks blew out at 45,000 miles, and were replaced with new units. They began leaking again at 52,000 miles.

The valve cover gaskets developed leaks at 45,200 miles. They were replaced. They began leaking again at 47,400 miles.

The A/C relay required replacement at 46,100 miles.

The A/C compressor required replacement at 46,400 miles.

The left rear speaker blew out at 46,600 miles.

The water pump failed at 46,800 miles.

The timing belt required replacement at 46,800 miles.

The window and lock switches in the driver's door required new contacts at 47,000 miles.

The springs required replacement at 48,300 miles.

The driver's window belt broke at 51,700 miles, causing the window to fall inside the door.

The left CV boot required replacement at 53,100 miles.

The driver's seat adjustment motor has barely functioned since purchase.

The transmission "bangs" during light-throttle up-shifts.

Fuel consumption is excessive, approximately 15mpg in the city, and 18mpg on the highway.

The reliability, structural integrity, and fit/finish is poor. It is never more than a month before something else goes wrong with this vehicle. This car has many squeaks and rattles. For such a softly sprung vehicle, it is unusually harsh and noisy over bumps.

Fuel economy is poor; this vehicle consistently gets 2-4mpg below factory ratings, despite driving gently to increase fuel economy, meticulous tune-ups and maintenance, etc.

Handling and braking are poor. The vehicle leans heavily in turns. The steering has no on-center responsiveness and is too light, but road feel is at least present. The brakes' response and performance are amazingly bad. Again, all of this is in spite of meticulous maintenance.

Power is decent. Off the line, it is rather sluggish, due to an exceptionally tall 1st gear (it up-shifts to 2nd gear at 50mph). However, power above 3,000rpm is adequate, so merging and passing are relatively worry-free.

The Chrysler/Infiniti II stereo system is excellent. The rear headphone jacks are a nice touch.

Comfort is above-average, aside from harshness over bumps, expansion strips, etc. The seats are comfortable, despite having no lateral support. Front and rear seat passenger room is more than adequate for four passengers, and just enough for five. Ignore the fact that this car has seat belts for six; cram six people in a Dynasty and they will not be happy.