1988 Plymouth Reliant Repair Manual

The 1988 Plymouth Reliant is a front-wheel drive compact car featuring a 2.2L or 2.5L four-cylinder engine, three-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission, and MacPherson strut front suspension. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for all major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, electrical, and suspension. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data and specifications for the 1988 Plymouth Reliant.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
3. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
4. Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Every 60,000 miles
6. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
7. Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
8. Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Repair

Comprehensive engine service and repair procedures.

1. Spark Plug Replacement: Remove ignition wires, clean area, install new plugs gapped to 0.035"
2. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine adjustment with feeler gauge
3. Timing Belt: Align marks, tension properly, check rotation
4. Oil Pan Removal: Drain oil, remove bolts, clean surfaces
5. Cylinder Head: Torque bolts in sequence to 70 ft-lbs

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before working. Use proper safety equipment.

Transmission Service

• Automatic Transmission: Check fluid level with engine running, fluid should be red and clear
• Manual Transmission: Use GL-4 gear oil, check for leaks at seals
• Fluid Capacity: Automatic: 7.5 quarts, Manual: 3.5 pints
• Shift Linkage: Adjust for proper gear engagement
• Clutch Replacement: Replace pressure plate, disc, and throwout bearing as set

Brake System

Brake maintenance and repair procedures for front disc and rear drum systems.

Front Brakes: Replace pads when worn to 1/8", resurface rotors if scored, lubricate slide pins. Rear Brakes: Adjust shoes periodically, replace if lining worn to 1/16".

Bleeding Procedure: Start with wheel farthest from master cylinder, use clear tubing in fluid container. Master Cylinder: Bench bleed before installation.

Electrical System

Diagnosis and repair of electrical components.

1. Battery: Check terminals for corrosion, load test capacity
2. Alternator: Output should be 13.5-14.5 volts at 2000 rpm
3. Starter: Draw test should not exceed 180 amps
4. Fuses: Check all fuses in under-dash panel
5. Wiring: Inspect for chafing, corrosion at connectors

Tip: Disconnect battery before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Suspension & Steering

Front suspension uses MacPherson struts, rear has leaf springs.

1. Strut Replacement: Support vehicle, remove knuckle bolts, compress spring safely
2. Ball Joints: Check for play with pry bar, replace if excessive
3. Tie Rod Ends: Check for looseness, adjust toe-in after replacement
4. Wheel Bearings: Pack with grease, adjust preload
5. Alignment Specs: Toe-in: 0° ± 0.25°, Camber: -0.25° ± 0.5°

WARNING! Use proper spring compressor for strut work. Never heat suspension components.

Cooling System

Maintain proper engine operating temperature with these procedures.

Fuel System

EFI system maintenance and repair.

CAUTION! Relieve fuel pressure before service. No smoking or open flames.

Exhaust System

Inspect for leaks at manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler connections.

Troubleshooting Guide

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Refer to factory service manual for detailed specifications.