1990-1994 Dodge Shadow Problems: 2 Known Issues
1990-1994 model years · 180+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 180+ owner reports, the 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is A413/A604 Automatic Transmission Failure ($200-$2,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is A413/A604 Automatic Transmission Failure with 180 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $30 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 2 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER SEAT CAN FAIL AND SEPARATE.
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
THE STEERING WHEEL ARMATURE STAMPING CAN CRACK AND SEPARATE FROM THE CENTER HUB ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING COLUMN.
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
THE LOWER SEAT BACK ATTACHING BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT CAN FAIL AND SEPARATE.
SUSPENSION
FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
THE ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKET MAY DISLOCATE AND ALLOW AN ENGINE OIL LEAK AT THE GASKET.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Dodge Shadow problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 180+ owner reports, the 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: A413/A604 Automatic Transmission Failure, Radiator Cooling Fan Relay Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Shadow reliable?
The 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow has 2 known issues documented across 180+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: A413/A604 Automatic Transmission 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 Shadow problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Shadow issues range from $30 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, A413/A604 Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $200-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Dodge Shadow is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Dodge Shadow. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow with 2 documented issues documented across 180+ owner reports.
What is the 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow A413/A604 Automatic Transmission Failure?
The 3-speed A413 (TorqueFlite) automatic used with the four-cylinder engines and the 4-speed A604 (Ultradrive) automatic offered with the 3.0L V6 (1992-1994) are both prone to failure, but the A604 is significantly worse. The A604 was Chrysler's first electronically controlled au… Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1994 Dodge Shadow Radiator Cooling Fan Relay Failure?
The cooling fan relay fails, preventing the electric radiator fan from running. This causes overheating in traffic and at idle. The relay is mounted on the fender well and is exposed to engine heat and moisture. Repairs typically run $30-$150. 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.