Summary
The Dodge Monaco has 6 recalls covering the 1990-1991 production run, with the most serious being a 1990 model year steering shaft that can separate at its coupling, leaving the driver with no steering control.
The 1990 model year also carries two brake-related recalls. The front brake hoses can develop fatigue cracks from excessive flexing, eventually leaking fluid and reducing braking effectiveness. Separately, the rear brake tube can be pinched by the fuel tank heat shield when the suspension compresses fully, damaging the line and leaking fluid from half of the braking system, which raises stopping distances. There is also a heater core issue on 1990 models where the end cap connecting the heater to the engine cooling system can rupture, spilling hot coolant onto the driver's feet. The 1990 automatic shoulder belt system can malfunction and stop working entirely, leaving occupants without passive restraint protection in a crash. On 1991 models, the battery's main feed wiring can rub against the air cleaner bracket, wear through its insulation, short-circuit, and start a fire in the engine compartment.
