The Dodge Dart is a mid-sized sedan that was produced by the Chrysler Corporation from 1960 to 1976 and by Chrysler’s Dodge division from 2013 to 2016. The Dart was available with a range of four- and six-cylinder engines and was offered in a variety of trim levels.
Over the years, the Dart has been known for its affordable price, spacious interior, and solid handling. However, like any car, the Dart has also had its share of issues. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Dart has had a relatively average number of recalls compared to other vehicles, with a total of 30 recalls from 2013 to 2016. Some of the issues that have been reported in the Dart include problems with the transmission, brakes, and airbags.
In this article, we will review the Dodge Darts manufactured in the 2010s for past issues to educate future buyers about any outstanding issues.
Dodge Dart Years With Most Recalls
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the following years of the Dodge Dart had the most recalls:
- 2013: The 2013 Dodge Dart had a total of 9 recalls.
A recall was issued in 2013 for certain 2013 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission shifter assembly, which could allow the car to be driven even if the transmission was not in the “Park” position. This could increase the risk of a rollaway accident.
A recall was also issued in 2013 for certain 2013 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission oil cooler hose, which could fail and cause a transmission fluid leak. This could lead to a loss of power and an increased risk of a crash.
- 2012: The 2012 Dodge Dart had a total of 9 recalls.
A recall was issued in 2012 for certain 2012 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission shifter assembly, which could allow the car to be driven even if the transmission was not in the “Park” position. This could increase the risk of a rollaway accident.
A recall was also issued in 2012 for certain 2012 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the front brake rotors. The recall was issued because the rotors could crack and separate, which could lead to a loss of brake performance and an increased risk of a crash.
A recall was issued in 2012 for certain 2012 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the fuel pump relay. The recall was issued because the relay could fail, which could cause the engine to stall and increase the risk of a crash.
- 2014: The 2014 Dodge Dart had a total of 8 recalls.
A recall was issued in 2014 for certain 2014 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission shifter assembly, which could allow the car to be driven even if the transmission was not in the “Park” position. This could increase the risk of a rollaway accident.
A recall was also issued in 2014 for certain 2014 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the front brake rotors. The recall was issued because the rotors could crack and separate, which could lead to a loss of brake performance and an increased risk of a crash.
A recall was issued in 2014 for certain 2014 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the driver’s side airbag. The recall was issued because the airbag could deploy improperly in the event of a crash, which could increase the risk of injury to the driver.
- 2015: The 2015 Dodge Dart had a total of 7 recalls.
A recall was issued in 2015 for certain 2015 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission shifter assembly, which could allow the car to be driven even if the transmission was not in the “Park” position. This could increase the risk of a rollaway accident.
A recall was also issued in 2015 for certain 2015 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the front brake rotors. The recall was issued because the rotors could crack and separate, which could lead to a loss of brake performance and an increased risk of a crash.
A recall was issued in 2015 for certain 2015 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the fuel pump relay. The recall was issued because the relay could fail, which could cause the engine to stall and increase the risk of a crash.
- 2016: The 2016 Dodge Dart had a total of 6 recalls.
A recall was issued in 2016 for certain 2016 Dart vehicles equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The recall was issued due to a problem with the transmission shifter assembly, which could allow the car to be driven even if the transmission was not in the “Park” position. This could increase the risk of a rollaway accident.
A recall was also issued in 2016 for certain 2016 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the front brake rotors. The recall was issued because the rotors could crack and separate, which could lead to a loss of brake performance and an increased risk of a crash.
A recall was issued in 2016 for certain 2016 Dart vehicles due to a problem with the front passenger airbag. The recall was issued because the airbag could deploy improperly in the event of a crash, which could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
It is worth noting that the number of recalls a car has does not necessarily reflect its overall quality or reliability. Many recalls are issued to address minor issues that can be easily fixed, and having a recall does not necessarily mean that a car is unsafe to drive. It is always a good idea to check for any open recalls on a car before purchasing it, and to have any necessary repairs made as soon as possible.
Conclusion
It is difficult to pinpoint what Dodge Dart years to avoid since the quality of the car varies from vehicle to vehicle. It is best that you go over this checklist in order prior to purchasing any vehicle, especially if it is used—
- Condition of the engine: Check for any unusual noises or problems with starting the engine, and look for signs of leaks or other issues.
- Condition of the transmission: Check the transmission for any issues with shifting or any unusual noises.
- Condition of the suspension: Check for any issues with the suspension, such as uneven tire wear or problems with steering.
- Condition of the brakes: Check the brake pads and rotors for any wear or damage, and make sure the brakes are functioning properly.
- Overall condition: Look for any visible signs of damage or wear, and make sure all of the car’s systems are functioning properly.
