1994 Dodge Spirit
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Dodge › Spirit › 1994
These records cover every 1994 Dodge Spirit. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 1994 Dodge Spirit. Newest first.
The safety belt anchors (buckle lock bars) do not meet the static load requirements of fmvss no. 210, "seat belt assembly anchorages."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequence of non-compliance: in event of an accident, the seat belt assembly may fail, exposing the restrained occupants to a greater risk of injury.
Remedy
The traveling safety belt lock bar assemblies will be replaced on these vehicles.
Owner complaints
87 complaints9 involved a crash3 involved a fire13 injuries2 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine and engine cooling
1994 dodge spirit caught fire while driving on the ohio turnpike. Consumer states he pulled over when the vehicle began to have problems then it caught fire. *kb the police report stated the fire originated in the engine compartment. Ohio traffic crash report# 10-0372-91
- Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered axle assembly
For over a year, we kept hearing a metal on metal thunking noise. no one has been able to diagnose it. two days ago, when returning home, we heard a loud metallic thunking noise that was much worse than previously heard. it sounded like we were dragging a tail pipe or muffler. yet, we found…
For over a year, we kept hearing a metal on metal thunking noise. no one has been able to diagnose it. two days ago, when returning home, we heard a loud metallic thunking noise that was much worse than previously heard. it sounded like we were dragging a tail pipe or muffler. yet, we found nothing under the car. when we got home, we jacked up the car to see if we would find the source of the noise. the dodge spirit IS a front wheel drive vehicle that uses a solid rear axle assembly that consists of a metal "v" shaped channel crossmember with a torque tube that runs through the middle of it. the torque tube IS rigidly welded to end plates and IS an integral part of the axle assembly and cannot be individually replaced. we discovered that the torque tube had broken the weld at the end plate as well as snapping completely in half about 6" from the end plate. the noise we heard was this tube slapping up and down in the "v" channel crossmember. it became very apparent that this was a dangerous situation and the car should not be driven. we immediately contacted the dodge dealer as well as customer service for dodge. customer service was no help as there IS no recall for this item. the dodge dealer wasn't much help either. they examined the car and determined that the rear axle assembly needed replacing (obviously) and would cost nearly $800 for the part. we live in arizona where the environment IS dry and non-corrosive. there IS no rust on this car, nor are there signs of abuse or damage. the weld failed on this major component. the rear axle assembly should last the lifetime of the car! so, now, we have an ugly car (paint failed-separate complaint filed) with a slipping transmission (complaint filed) that IS sitting lame in the driveway. this IS horrible for a 9-year-old car that has received all maintenance and service regularly, including wheel rotations. *la
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Since we bought this used car from a dealer in 1999, the transmission seemed to slip. we complained, but nothing was ever done. in 2001, we took the car to yet another dodge dealer. at this time, the car had 80,000 miles on it. they said that the transmission needed a complete overhaul. if…
Since we bought this used car from a dealer in 1999, the transmission seemed to slip. we complained, but nothing was ever done. in 2001, we took the car to yet another dodge dealer. at this time, the car had 80,000 miles on it. they said that the transmission needed a complete overhaul. if memory serves me correctly, the price they quoted was $1,800. so now, we drive a car with a horrible transmission that slips upon take off and hard acceleration while passing. *la
- Structure › Body
Within 3 months of our purchase of this used car in 1999, the paint went very flat and the clear coat started flaking off in large chunks. The car appears to have leprosy. Upon further research, it was suggested that the dealer "detailed" the car for selling as the paint would not have failed for…
Within 3 months of our purchase of this used car in 1999, the paint went very flat and the clear coat started flaking off in large chunks. The car appears to have leprosy. Upon further research, it was suggested that the dealer "detailed" the car for selling as the paint would not have failed for us that quickly. in fact, it was suggested that the timing was "just about right" to support "detailing" of the car. we contacted the dealer right away and were told that since we are not original owners, they couldn't help us. even if we were original owners, there were no recalls on paint or finish. yet, every dodge spirit that we have seen since suffers the same problem. any dealer service manager that I have contacted regarding this problem agrees that they all suffer the same problem but there IS nothing that can be done without a recall. we continue to complain to this date, but have had negative results. so, now we drive an ugly car that also has serious structural and mechanical defects. *la
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system
Fuel smell seeps onto the car when heat IS on. Dealer states that the fuel injector IS leaking, but refuses to repair problem. Please provide additional information. ts
- Air bags › Frontal
Consumer state while traveling 35 mph in result of a vehicle crash consumer air bag deploy and caught passenger coat on fire. Please provide further information. ph
- Unknown or other
The vehicle has been peeling paint for over a year now. sometimes in small spots but recently half the roof of the car rolled off overnight. I have been told by 2 body shops & by the service department at marshall dodge in covington, ky where I now go for service that there IS a manufacturers…
The vehicle has been peeling paint for over a year now. sometimes in small spots but recently half the roof of the car rolled off overnight. I have been told by 2 body shops & by the service department at marshall dodge in covington, ky where I now go for service that there IS a manufacturers problem with the paint. I was advised by marshall dodge to submit a request for something to be done. I did this & it came back refused with no reason given. I then wrote to the company & again it came back that they'd have to uphold the original decision based on the facts. no one ever looked at the vehicle or called to question me about the problem. the roof IS starting to rust in places & I need to have the car painted. obviously I'D prefer to have the manufacturer do something than have to pay for it myself. it IS his problem after all. no one who has looked at it or done any spot paint work on it will guarantee the work due to the manufacturer's lack of quality control. please advise if you can help with this matter. thanks for your assistance. dt
- Power train › Axle assembly · Suspension › Rear
While driving heard a noise coming from rear axle, and there was a popping sound. Dealer has been notified.*ak *yh
- Suspension › Rear
T 30mph and with no warning rear axle snapped, and could have caused an accident. Cause unknown. Dealer notified.*ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
The transmission on this car started downshifting very harshly & going out of gear with no warning. I was almost rear-ended. The transmission needs a $2,000 re-build after only 25,000 miles. Chrysler IS not willing to help out. On further investigation, I have learned the chrysler cars and MINI…
The transmission on this car started downshifting very harshly & going out of gear with no warning. I was almost rear-ended. The transmission needs a $2,000 re-build after only 25,000 miles. Chrysler IS not willing to help out. On further investigation, I have learned the chrysler cars and MINI vans have been notorious for bad automatic transmissions. How has this been permitted to go on for so long? One of their products experiencing a major drivetrain failure at such low mileage IS ridiculous. This automobile was originally purchased by an elderly couple who maintained it to the max. And babied it on the road. The car looks brand new as it has been housed in a heated garage. Such a marof failure at such extremely low mileage IS unreasonable, to say nothing of the fact that sudden power loss to the drive wheels and harsh downshifting, slowing the car unexpectedly IS dangerous. It would appear that chrysler has been given a "bye" on this issue in spite of so many product failures. Why? THE4 transmisson shops tell me that they do not even use factory parts when they re-build. This IS ridiculous, especially from a company that was saved from bankruptcy by "we the people".*ak
- Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft · Suspension › Front › Control arm
Consumer was slowing down and vehicle was wobbling. consumer pulled over, took a look, didn't see anything, and continued driving. consumer traveled at 65mph, the faster she drove less it seemed to wiggle. consumer went to dealer to have vehicle checked out, and it was left outer front half shaft. part was wiggling and rubbing metal on metal. mechanic stated it was a common problem, like brake pad. *ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Had transmission rebuilt at 65K and replaced at 83k--mechanic states the only way this IS possible IS a defect from the factory. I contacted chrysler who told me there were no recalls regarding the transmission, I contacted the bbb who have not responded. I have spent over $4000 on transmissions. what am I to do?*ak
- Air bags
I was taking my grandson to auburn, ny when he notice a white wisp coming from the steering column. I stopped immediately, shut car off..walked to a house to call for help. this car was repaired at fox dodge, auburn, n.y. I called chrysler corp. And karen authorized payment for the clock spring…
I was taking my grandson to auburn, ny when he notice a white wisp coming from the steering column. I stopped immediately, shut car off..walked to a house to call for help. this car was repaired at fox dodge, auburn, n.y. I called chrysler corp. And karen authorized payment for the clock spring, but I had to pay the labor on invoice #chcs17948 in the amount of $169.12. I wonder how many other people have paid for total repairs of the defective clock spring.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Structure › Body › Door › Hinge and attachments
Vehicle has had intermittent problem with seals on engine gasket. They were leaking, and causing vehicle to stall. Dealer has repaired them 3 other times with no explanation why it kept happening. other problem IS with passenger door rusting on inside at hinges. door IS about to come off. dealer expected consumer to oil door periodically.*ak
- Suspension › Rear
Had a broken trailer arm & bushing. steering would not be right due to problem. The rear end would make noise after going over or hitting bumps.*ak
- Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly
Fuel tank was rusty and leaking, had to be replaced. *Ak
- Air bags › Frontal
When the air bag on the driver's side deployed during collision, driver's hands were injured, driver's thumbs were almost cut off by the sharp edge of the air bag cover. *cj
- Electrical system › Ignition
Vehicle keeps stalling at any speed. dodge finally said co pilot should be installed, admitting there IS a problem. *ak
- Air bags
Air bag deploy darn near took thumbs off my hands, required 15 stitches in all. hit deer, causing air bag to deploy.
- Tires › Tread/belt
Bought from pep boys, tire size p18575r14, m/s, steel belted. driver's front tire tread came off. *Ak the consumer replaced the two front tires due to the bad condition of them. dot#hvj7nd069. *slc
- Suspension › Rear
3 spot weld for the rear sway bar broke off, causing a metal to metal noise. Please provide further information.*ak
- Seats
Bolt on seat frame caused seat back to drop to the rear. Could cause accident if car was moving. Engine belt tensionor broke large engine belt , could cause engine failure. this tensionor also froze on my 1994 carivan. my friends 1998 carivan belt tensionor also broke around 60000 miles.. I suspect amny dodge cars and breaks have bad tensionor's. This was not fixed at dealer. *Ak
- Suspension › Rear
Three spot welds broke at rear left sway bar. Manuufacturer notified, and informed consumer that part was covered under manufacturer's recall. *ak
- Seat belts
Passenger's side automatic passive restraint has worn out, it does not retract. Dealer has been contacted. *ak
- Fuel system, other › Storage › Fuel gauge system
Unable to get a part needed for float sender. dealer notified, and informed consumer that 244 parts were on back order. manufacturer was aware of problem. *ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Steering column separation
Mr. Larry a. Sackey submitted a petition to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa) by letter dated april 18, 2003, requesting that nhtsafurther investigate the defective collapsible steering shaft system on 1987-1995 vehicles manufactured by the daimlerchrysler corporation.in part because of 49 cfr…
Mr. Larry a. Sackey submitted a petition to the national highway traffic safety administration (nhtsa) by letter dated april 18, 2003, requesting that nhtsafurther investigate the defective collapsible steering shaft system on 1987-1995 vehicles manufactured by the daimlerchrysler corporation.in part because of 49 cfr ? 30120(G), nhtsa has decided to limit the scope of the petition vehicles to 1993-1995 models, excluding the 1993 jeep grand cherokee and 1994-1995 dodge RAM series trucks that were recalled (93v210 & 96v230) for steering column failure.if the analysis of these vehicles had identified a potential problem, the scope could have been expanded in an investigation.a review of odi's data base shows no recent complaints and a lack of a complaint trend concerning the subject issue on the subject vehicles as a whole or by individual models.therefore, the petition IS denied.for details, see federal register notice volume 68, no. 130, july 8, 2003.
- Safety blt latch operation
There is no summary currently available
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10191460Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
- 10150552Child Seat Tether Anchor Installation This bulletin describes procedures to install Child Seat Tether Anchors based on Customer Request. Retrofits are subject to part availability. Vehicles in the following list that are marked **** for the model year are no longer supported with OEM retrofit kits. NOTE: Dealers are encouraged to honor any customers? request for the installation of the Child Seat Tether Anchors and Dealer reimbursement will be made by FCA US LLC regardless of vehicle age or mileage. See the Warranty Policy and Procedure Manual and/or Warranty Bulletin D-08-33 for reimbursement detail.
- 6092304Subject regarding non-deployed airbag handling procedures.
- 6089800Daimlerchrysler corporation IS now offerinb airbag on / off switches for selected vehicles.
- 6089311Concerns with a/c evaporator odor. *Nlm
- 6089038Information on tire and wheel runout. *Nlm
- 6089028Information on 41te/42le service information. *Nlm
- 6088988Concerns with 41te/42le transaxle shudder during an emcc (electronically modulated converter clutch) shift. *Nlm
- 6088834Information regarding nhtsa authorized airbag deactivation for medical necessity. *Nlm
- 6088786Concerns with engine coolant usage. *Nlm
- 634272Flash programming failure recovery. *Slc
- 621898Automatic transmission fluid usage ATF+4.
- 620059Subject regarding airbag / clock spring service for various models including 2002 model year jeep liberty.
- 618049Subject regarding wire splice repairs.
- 615688Subject regarding child seat tether anchors.
- 612160Subject on the child seat tether anchors. *Mjs
- 610635Subject regarding child seat tether anchors.
- 609995This bulletin provides a revised wire splice procedure and related parts.
- 607963Information on child seat tether anchors.
- 607959This bulletin announces the availability and installation of a resuable automatic transmission oil pan gasket.
- 605014Conditions with intermittent loss of speed control.
- 604809Federal and california emissions recall regarding the methanol concentration sensor.
- 604696Subject regarding reusable automatic transmission oil pan gasket.
- 604364Service and parts information on 1999 running changes to transmission range sensor (trs)
- 603153Subject regarding airbag on - off switches.
- 600862Information on installation of radio transmitting equipment.
- 600751Subject on delayed transaxle engagement.
- 54423Authorized airbag deactivation for medical necessity.
- 54371Condition with tranaxle shudder during a 3RD gear to 3RD gear partial emcc ( electronically modulated converter clutch) engagement, 3RD gear partial emcc to 4TH gear partial emcc engagement, or 4TH gear to 4TH gear emcc engagement.
- 52963Various car owner's have expressed interest in using engine coolants made with propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol.
- 51993Vehicle shudder during torque converter emcc (lock up) operation/diagnostic trouble code 38.
- 51978Vehicles with 3.0L engines - intake valve deposits - driveway die out, rough idle, lack of power, sags or hesitation.
- 51942Difficult to clean light colored "chalky" residue from plastic body components that are molded in black.
- 51274Erroneous mil illumination with hex code $2e-egr system failure.
- 46371Bulletin supersedes technical service bulletin 08-16-95, dated apr. 14, 1995. If the vehicle operator **repeatedly** presses and releases the set button with their foot off of the accelerator (a 'lift foot set' to begin speed control operation), the vehicle may accelerate and exceed the desired set speed by up to 5 mph (8 km/h) and then decelerate to less than the desired set speed before finally achieving the desired set speed.
- 43055Unknown
- 41049Cruise control overshoot/undershoot during initial set speed selection.
- 39983Intermittent or inoperative switches on the right front power window and the convertible top switch.
- 39974Harsh transaxle shifts. *T2W
- 39260Delayed transaxle engagement.
Every Dodge Spirit model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.