Summary
The Plymouth Horizon has 6 recalls covering the 1978–1986 production run, with the most serious being a rear suspension trailing arm pivot bolt that can fail on 1986 models, causing partial separation of the rear suspension from the vehicle and sudden loss of control without warning.
The final production year carries this suspension concern exclusively. Going back to the 1979 model year, fuel supply and vapor return hoses in the engine compartment can harden and crack from engine vibration, leaking fuel that can ignite under the hood. On 1980 models, the secondary hood catch can bind in the open position and stop working, leaving nothing to hold the hood down if the primary latch fails to engage, which can cause the hood to fly up while driving. The 1978 model year has three separate issues. On air-conditioned versions, the fuel return hose can rub against the air conditioning suction hose until it wears through and leaks fuel into the engine compartment, creating a fire risk. Also on 1978 vehicles with manual steering, the lower steering shaft coupling can be improperly seated on the steering gear shaft, work loose over time, and introduce steering free play that can progress to a complete loss of steering control. A third 1978 concern involves the alternator field wiring terminals, which can loosen from engine vibration and cause a loss of electrical power to the vehicle.
