The Dodge Dart, produced between 2013 and 2016, is a compact sedan that shared underpinnings with Fiat Chrysler platforms. The most frequently reported problems by owners center on the transmission, electrical systems, and certain engine-related concerns. These issues vary by year and engine configuration, but they are consistently echoed in consumer reports and recall campaigns. Here is a detailed look at what tends to come up most often.
Top mechanical and drivetrain concerns
In this section, we outline the mechanical and drivetrain areas most commonly cited by Dodge Dart owners, with a focus on what tends to fail and how it manifests in day-to-day driving.
- Automatic transmission shifting issues: rough shifts, slipping, or hesitation, particularly with the available 6-speed automatic in some engine variants.
- Engine performance concerns: stumbles, misfires, reduced power, or inconsistent idling linked to ignition components, fuel delivery, or sensor failures in certain engines (notably among the 1.4L turbo and 2.4L Tigershark variants).
- Oil leaks and gasket wear: leaks around valve covers and other seals, which can lead to higher oil consumption if left unaddressed.
- Electrical and electronic glitches: problems with power windows, door locks, and the central electronics or infotainment system that can interrupt daily use.
- Power steering/electric assist issues: intermittent loss or variability of steering assist tied to EPS components in select model years.
Conclusion: Across the Dart lineup, the most persistent concerns tend to cluster around transmission behavior, engine reliability for particular engines, and the robustness of electrical systems and electronics.
Electrical and infotainment concerns
Many Dodge Dart owners report electronics-related problems that can affect usability, including issues with the Uconnect infotainment system and general vehicle electronics.
- Infotainment system faults: screen freezing, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity drops, or navigation glitches.
- Battery and charging issues: premature battery drain, charging system faults, or intermittent alternator troubles leading to a dead battery.
- Sensors and warning lights: intermittent illumination of the check-engine light or other warnings due to faulty sensors (various engine and exhaust sensors have been cited in complaints).
Conclusion: Electronics and infotainment reliability have been a frequent complaint area, often requiring software updates or component replacements to restore normal function.
Recall history and service campaigns
Note: The Dart saw multiple recalls and service campaigns during its model years. Prospective buyers or owners should verify recall status by VIN and ensure all campaigns are completed.
- Transmission and powertrain recalls: Campaigns addressing transmission control modules and related hardware to prevent shifting irregularities or failures.
- Electrical system campaigns: Wiring, battery cables, and EPS-related concerns were targeted in select VIN ranges.
- Airbag and safety component recalls: Some units were included in broader safety recalls issued by manufacturers; confirm status for your specific car.
Conclusion: Checking recall history is a practical step when evaluating a Dodge Dart, as many issues are resolved through recalls or service bulletins.
Year-by-year snapshot (high-level)
Before listing: Patterns vary by model year and engine choice; this high-level snapshot highlights where problems tended to cluster across the 2013–2016 Dart lineup.
- 2013–2014: Owner reports concentrated on transmission behavior and electrical glitches; early production units often showed HVAC and infotainment quirks.
- 2015–2016: Some mechanical improvements were noted, but recurring reports persisted for steering/electrical components and occasional engine sensor warnings; recalls and service updates helped mitigate some issues.
Conclusion: Reliability on the Dart is influenced heavily by year and engine configuration; potential buyers should review service history and verify any known issues for the specific variant they’re considering.
What to check before buying (practical tips)
If you’re evaluating a used Dodge Dart, these practical checks help identify common trouble spots and avoid units with aging issues.
- Request complete service history, especially for transmission work, battery/charging components, and infotainment updates.
- Have the transmission inspected for smooth shifts and absence of harshness; note any hesitation or slipping events.
- Test all electrical features: power windows, door locks, lighting, and the Uconnect system for responsiveness.
- Check for oil leaks and unusual engine noises; scan for diagnostic trouble codes with a code reader.
Conclusion: A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on drivetrain integrity, electrical health, and engine condition will help identify the most common Dart issues before purchase.
Summary
Across model years, the Dodge Dart’s most common issues center on transmission behavior, electrical/electronic reliability, and engine-related concerns that vary by engine choice and year. While many Darts perform well as daily commuters, prospective owners should be mindful of these risk areas, verify recall completion, and seek a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection if buying used. For the latest, consult official recall databases and model-specific owner forums, and prioritize maintenance history when assessing a Dart.
Final note: An up-to-date check with the NHTSA recall database and a professional inspection remains the best way to confirm the current status and health of any Dodge Dart you’re considering.