1987 Plymouth Reliant LX 2.0

Summary:

Not much on style, but big on reliability

Faults:

I replaced the water pump.

I replaced the CV axle.

I had the timing belt replaced by a mechanic.

General Comments:

I bought this car intending to run it for one year and then buy something decent. I've driven it for almost three years and the darn thing won't quit.

It is easy to maintain and repair.

Its unmistakable box design keeps my kids from wanting to borrow it.

It has great heat and air conditioning, a good car to commute back and forth to work.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th January, 2002

1987 Plymouth Reliant LE 2.2 L

Summary:

Better off junking it now

Faults:

Replaced the brakes at about 71000.

Alternator and battery died at 74000 miles.

Bought the car with a bad radiator. Replaced at 75000 miles.

Water pump completely blew up without warning at 80000 miles (by "blew up" I mean I lost ALL my antifreeze in a matter of 5 miles).

Both locks jammed up at 78000, and after several quotes, I decided it wasn't worth fixing for how much it would cost.

Even with gentle driving, my car has developed a very bad knock.

Frequently dies at intersections, so I always have to put it in neutral when I am approaching a light of stop sign.

Right rear door clasp broke at 78500, so I have to keep it locked and unused at all times.

General Comments:

I hate the steering wheel. It is too low and has no tilt option. No matter how I move the bench seat, my legs always are cramped, and I'm only 5' 8".

Terrible sound system. My old car had a nice CD player, and I just can't get used to only AM and FM.

I thoroughly cleaned out all the fuel lines, and still never get decent acceleration off the start.

Guzzles gas if you ever want to get up to 60 before a quarter mile has gone by, and don't even think of passing of changing lanes if you hope to get there on only one tank.

Has excessive body roll when on curves causing a complete lack of confidence in its handling abilities.

I feel I got royally ripped off, and I only paid $350 for it!

I want my old 5-speed Cavalier back!!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd January, 2002

8th Feb 2002, 17:06

This reviewer could have done a better job. Check out the other review for this car.

1987 Plymouth Reliant 1987 2.5 turbo

Summary:

High quality performance sedan

Faults:

So far, all I have had to replace was the brake vacuum booster, and Chrysler were nice enough to cut me a deal on it - $50 versus $118 because it was literally the first thing to go wrong with the car.

General Comments:

This car is very quick off the line, and impresses most with its handling and acceleration.

The seats are very comfortable, making long trips a pleasure, not a pain.

I would reccommend buying one of these to anybody, as long as mileage is low and the car is in good shape.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th May, 2001

23rd Jun 2001, 18:52

Thanks man I got one of em and it screeches so nice! thanks for a good review!

8th Feb 2002, 14:38

I drive a Reliant, and I do NOT find it to be fast off the line. I do not find it to be fast anywhere. In fact, grass grows faster.

1st Jun 2002, 14:46

This car is tough. We found one left in a vacant lot. It was there for years and after hot-wiring it, the engine turned over. Like we said (were 12 year olds) THIS CAR IS TOUGH!!!