1990-1994 Dodge Shadow: Reliability

Updated: 11/23/08

1994 Dodge Shadow ES  2-door coupe
1994 Dodge Shadow
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1990-1994 Dodge Shadow

  • Price Range:  $0 - $1,200
CG Rating

43

out of 100

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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
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