1983 Plymouth Reliant Custom review from North America
"Ugly, but comfortable."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The worst thing to happen to the car was an electrical fire caused by a faulty alternator. It overcharged and melted a wiring harness which shorted out and flamed up. This, in turn, caused some light failures, mainly the turn signals and brake lights. I have since hard wired them and the car is now roadworthy.
The A/C compressor needs replacing, but the car is 21 years old. Not surprising.
General comments?
Sans the alternator trouble, which was actually my fault (the battery light lit up and I assumed the alternator was undercharging) and the lack of A/C in Southwest Arizona, this has been a pretty decent car.
It is surprisingly roomy and comfortable, even for big framed man as myself (6', 275). It's been in the family since it was purchased new by my grandparents and I will probably keep it as hauler when I buy my new car.
Mileage is not great for a 4 cylinder, but I can average 25mpg using the cruise control.
Plenty of pep for an old station wagon.
Recommended reviews
| Slow and cheap |
|
| Great for what I paid. It has been very reliabe as a go to work vehicle |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1983 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 38000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 48000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 30th June, 2004 |