The year to avoid is 2013, the Dart’s inaugural year in its second generation, which is widely cited for reliability and quality issues. If you’re shopping used, aim for 2015 or 2016, which typically offered better reliability and fewer recalls, while still recognizing the Dart’s overall limitations in the segment.
Year-by-year reliability snapshot
The following year-by-year look helps buyers understand where risk tends to be higher and where improvements arrived, so you can target a model with the strongest overall track record.
- 2013: The most problematic year among the Dart’s run, with higher reports of transmission and electrical issues and generally lower reliability ratings from owners and reviewers.
- 2014: Some ongoing issues persist, though reliability shows improvement relative to 2013; not class-leading in the compact-sedan segment.
- 2015: Updates and refinements contribute to better reliability; a more solid used-purchase option if it comes with thorough maintenance history and clear recalls were addressed.
- 2016: The final model year with incremental improvements; typically more dependable than the earliest years, but still not perfect.
These notes should be viewed in context: individual vehicles vary, and a well-documented, well-maintained example from an earlier year can still be a decent buy. Always verify service records and recall completion.
Practical implications by year
When evaluating a specific Dart, prioritizing a 2015 or 2016 example with complete maintenance history and confirmed recall repairs can help maximize reliability while still offering a value purchase. If you must consider 2013 or 2014, budget for potential repairs and a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Remember to obtain a vehicle history report and have a qualified mechanic inspect any used Dart before purchase.
What to check when buying a used Dodge Dart
To avoid surprises, use the following checks as a baseline for evaluating any used Dart, with extra emphasis on the earlier years.
- Service history: Look for regular maintenance, any major repairs, and whether recalls were completed.
- Transmission operation: Ensure smooth, quiet shifting in automatic models and precise engagement in manuals; watch for rough shifts or delays.
- Electricals and infotainment: Test the Uconnect system, dashboard gauges, lights, and sensor functionality; check for intermittent electrical issues.
- Engine and fuel economy: Listen for unusual noises, check for leaks, and verify mpg figures align with the engine configuration (1.4L turbo, 2.0L, or 2.4L options).
- Interior condition: Inspect trim, upholstery, and seals; earlier Dart interiors faced some wear-and-tear complaints.
With careful checks and a preference for a 2015-2016 model backed by documented maintenance and recalled-component repairs, a used Dodge Dart can still be a sensible value in today’s market.
Summary
The 2013 Dodge Dart stands out as the model year to avoid due to reliability concerns and higher reported issues. If you’re shopping used, focus on 2015 or 2016 models, and always verify complete maintenance history, recall status, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase to mitigate risk.
Which Dodge Dart engine is best?
Reviewers prefer the Dart's 1.4-liter turbocharged engine over the base 2.0-liter engine, especially when the 1.4-liter engine is paired with the manual transmission. Reviewers are most impressed with the Dart after taking it on twisty roads, calling its handling accurate and responsive.
What is the best year of Dodge Dart to buy?
If you absolutely have to buy a Dodge Dart, get the 2016 model year. The 2016 model is the most reliable year of Dodge Dart, mainly because it lacked the significant issues of its predecessors. As per CarComplaints, the 2016 Dart only has 300+ complaints and four recalls.
What are the bad years for Dodge Dart?
A: If you're considering purchasing a used Dodge Dart, it's best to steer clear of the 2013, 2014, and 2015 model years. These particular years have been known to have more reliability issues compared to the final model year.
Why is the 2013 Dodge Dart not reliable?
According to many owners of the 2013 Dodge Dart, battery failure is a common problem for the model year. Most of them had to replace their car's battery twice in two years. Drivers have reported that their battery died abruptly while they were driving. Most of them also had to deal with steering and braking issues.