DODGE COLT PROBLEMS

Common Complaints and Reliability

• 1. Safety Features (Seatbelts & Airbags):

  • Seatbelts not extending enough to be used by a normal-sized person.
    
  • Front passenger side seatbelt needing a screwdriver to open.
    
  • Driver's side seat buckle broken or not latching properly.
    
  • Seatbelt buckle's red push-in button breaking off, rendering the seatbelt inoperative.
    
  • Front seatbelts not restraining properly.
    
  • Takata seatbelt buckle jamming due to a broken internal piece.
    
  • Passenger side buckle jamming, and driver's side buckle not latching (PE94-093).
    
  • Airbag system problems.
    

• 2. Engine, Drivetrain, and Transmission:

  • Timing chain breaking and damaging the engine block; short block replaced twice.
    
  • Engine mounts breaking.
    
  • Carburetor fire.
    
  • Air conditioner, master cylinder, transmission, and motor mounts failing.
    
  • Transmission not shifting properly from first to second gear, not shifting at all, and making loud noises.
    
  • Freeze plugs on the engine failing frequently (within 2 months of each other).
    

• 3. Electrical System and Lighting:

  • Headlight switch needing frequent replacement.
    
  • Ignition switch failure.
    

• 4. Steering:

  • Steering wheel detaching while parking.
    

• 5. Climate Control:

  • Air conditioner problems.
    

• 6. Brakes:

  • Master cylinder failure.
    

• 7. Recalls and Dealer Issues:

  • Dealers failing to perform recall repairs (e.g., for defective seatbelt buttons) despite recall letters and multiple attempts by the consumer.