According to Au7o's analysis of 170+ owner reports, the 1991 Dodge Spirit has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure ($400-$1,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure with 170 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $1,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit, the Dodge Spirit shares the same 2.2L and 2.5L K-car engines as the Shadow and suffers from the identical head gasket failure pattern. The bimetallic construction (cast iron block, aluminum head) creates differential thermal expansion that breaks down the composite head gasket seal. The 2.5L is more commonly affected due to higher combustion pressures. The Spirit R/T model with the 2.2L turbo is particularly susceptible due to boost pressure stressing the gasket. Overheating from any cause (stuck thermostat, failed fan, low coolant) often triggers immediate head gasket failure on these engines.
Coolant disappearing with no visible external leak
Rough idle and misfires from cylinder contamination
How to Fix
Confirm head gasket failure with a cooling system pressure test, combustion gas/block test, and compression or leak-down test, then inspect for coolant seepage at the rear of the head and check for cylinder contamination. Repair requires removing the cylinder head, checking both the aluminum head and iron block deck for warpage/cracks, machining the head if needed, and installing an updated quality head gasket set with new head bolts, along with fresh coolant, thermostat, and often a water pump if overheating contributed. Carefully follow the factory torque sequence/specifications and verify radiator fan operation to prevent repeat failure. Typical repair cost is about $1,000-$1,800 depending on machine shop work and whether turbocharged R/T components or additional cooling system parts are needed.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Fel-Pro 9296 PT cylinder-head gasket
Primary gasket after cooling-system, combustion-gas and machine-shop checks confirm a repairable 2.2L/2.5L failure Fitment: Direct listing covers 1989-1995 Spirit 2.5L; 2.2L turbo/DOHC R/T and set/bolt details require separate exact-engi…
High ConfidenceVerified170 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Aug 2026
On the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit, the heater core and rubber coolant hoses deteriorate, causing coolant leaks into the passenger footwell (heater core) or externally (hoses). The heater core replacement requires significant dash disassembly.
Replace heater core (Spectra 94523) and all coolant hoses as preventive maintenance. Flush the cooling system and use proper Mopar-compatible antifreeze. For heater core access, the dash must be partially removed.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Spectra 94604 HVAC heater core
Primary core-replacement branch after pressure testing confirms leakage or internal restriction Fitment: Cataloged 1989-1995 Spirit configurations including the early two-inch core; confirm A/C/core thickness and inlet layout Live direct…
Later configuration branch where OE 4644228/its cross references match Fitment: 1993 ES/High Line and 1994-1995 Base catalog applications; not the whole 1990-1995 issue Live manufacturer product page when checked
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On the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit, engine and transmission mounts deteriorate rapidly, causing excessive drivetrain movement, vibration at idle, and a clunk when shifting from Park to Drive. The front motor mount (dog bone) is usually the first to fail.
Replace all motor mounts and the transmission mount as a set. Aftermarket mounts from Anchor or DEA are affordable. Check inner CV boots while accessing the lower mount as they are often torn.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
DEA A2618 transmission mount
Replace the confirmed transmission-position mount when its exact engine/transaxle application matches Fitment: 1990-1995 Spirit listing; verify engine, automatic/manual transaxle and mount position before ordering Live direct US product …
THE SAFETY BELT ANCHORS (BUCKLE LOCK BARS) DO NOT MEET THE STATIC LOAD REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."
Campaign #94V02300008/02/1994
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
FRONT OUTBOARD SAFETY BELT MAY BECOME DIFFICULT TO LATCH AND OR UNLATCH DUE TO A WEBBING STIFFENER ENTERING THE BUCKLE HOUSING AND DISLODGING THE BUCKLE LATCH GUIDE.
Campaign #91V12200011/07/1991
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
THE TWO AIR BAG SYSTEM FRONT IMPACT SENSORS MAY NOT BE SECURED TO THEIR MOUNTING BRACKETS.
Campaign #90V19400019/11/1990
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
FRONT DISC BRAKE CALIPER GUIDE PIN BOLTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY TORQUED AND COULD LOOSEN.
Campaign #90V16200004/09/1990
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
THE ZINC PLATING OPERATION PERFORMED ON THE UPPER STEERING COLUMN SHAFT COUPLING BOLT CAUSED HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT AND BREAKAGE OF THE BOLT.
Campaign #92V01500014/02/1992
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According to Au7o's analysis of 170+ owner reports, the 1991 Dodge Spirit has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure, Heater Core and Coolant Hose Leaks, Motor Mount and Transmission Mount Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Spirit reliable?
The 1991 Dodge Spirit has 3 known issues documented across 170+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Spirit problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Spirit issues range from $150 to $1,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure, typically costs $400-$1,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit 2.2L/2.5L Head Gasket Failure?
The Dodge Spirit shares the same 2.2L and 2.5L K-car engines as the Shadow and suffers from the identical head gasket failure pattern. The bimetallic construction (cast iron block, aluminum head) creates differential thermal expansion that breaks down the composite head gasket se… Repairs typically run $400-$1,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit Heater Core and Coolant Hose Leaks?
The heater core and rubber coolant hoses deteriorate, causing coolant leaks into the passenger footwell (heater core) or externally (hoses). The heater core replacement requires significant dash disassembly. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit Motor Mount and Transmission Mount Failure?
Engine and transmission mounts deteriorate rapidly, causing excessive drivetrain movement, vibration at idle, and a clunk when shifting from Park to Drive. The front motor mount (dog bone) is usually the first to fail. Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
