1990-1994 Dodge Shadow: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Shadow includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Shadow .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling and/or the airflow from the vents decreases, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the A/C evaporator to freeze up. (1991-94)
Alternator belt:
Deep snow could knock the serpentine belt off the pulleys of a 3.0-liter engine. Installing a shield will solve the problem. (1991-94)
Automatic transmission:
Transmission shudder under light to moderate acceleration could be caused by a leaking front trans pump due to a worn bushing. (1990-94)
Automatic transmission:
41TE or 42LE automatic transaxles could take several seconds to engage at startup because of a problem with the valve body. (1993-94)
Automatic transmission:
Bad seals in the transmission lead to premature friction component wear. (1993-94)
Cold-starting problems:
2.2- or 2.5-liter engines may idle rough or stumble when first started unless a revised intake manifold (with an "X" cast into the number 1 runner) was installed (1992) or a revised computer (PCM) was installed (1992-93) or the computer was reprogrammed. (1994)
Engine noise:
The motor mount on the left side of the engine tends to break. (1992-93)
Oil consumption:
Oil consumption and smoke from the exhaust at idle and deceleration on 3.0-liter engines is caused by exhaust valve guides that slide out of the heads. (1992-93)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $450 |
| Alternator | $280 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $675 |
| Brakes | $250 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $625 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $445 |
| Exhaust System | $260 |
| Radiator | $325 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $330 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $150 |








