Photo: jeff sutain / CC BY 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Power
Combined, EPA 2016
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided, with owner experiences ranging from highly positive long-term reliability to severe and recurring mechanical failures.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSevere electrical system failures
Symptoms include flickering/flashing instrument cluster, complete loss of power steering while driving, radio cutting out, and multiple warning lights (Service Electronic Braking System, Service Power Steering, Traction Control, Check Engine). Described as a safety hazard.
- Very frequent2.4L MultiAir engine oil consumption
Engine burns excessive oil, leading to very poor fuel economy (as low as 17 MPG reported) and potential engine damage. A software update and recall were issued to address this.
- RecurrentDDCT (Dual Dry Clutch Transmission) failure
Transmission began "acting up" around 200,000 miles, cited as a primary reason for selling the vehicle.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentGeneral reliability concerns
Described as having "so many issues" by some owners, with one stating their well-running example was considered a "unicorn" compared to others commonly seen at dealerships.
- IsolatedPoor ergonomic design
Controls, switches, and door locks placed in unintuitive, hard-to-reach locations (e.g., rear door lock knob positioned behind occupant's head).
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available for a definitive recommendation. One owner reported a positive long-term experience with a 2013 SXT trim. Another owner with a 1.4L turbo engine reported good reliability, while others reported severe issues with the 2.4L engine. No consensus on a "best" version emerges.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided, with owner experiences ranging from highly positive long-term reliability to severe and recurring mechanical failures. A subset of long-term owners report excellent dependability, with vehicles running "like new" for over a decade when meticulously maintained from new, achieving high fuel economy (40+ MPG highway) and requiring only basic maintenance. However, a very frequent and dominant theme in community feedback is significant and often catastrophic reliability issues, particularly with electrical systems, specific engines, and transmissions. These problems are described as rendering the vehicle unsafe or undrivable, leading to early sale or lemon law claims. The vehicle is generally viewed as a budget-conscious purchase with high risk, where ownership satisfaction is heavily dependent on individual vehicle history and luck.
Positioning vs competitors
Insufficient owner data available. No direct comparisons to other models are present in the feedback.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available. One mention suggests verifying a complete service history is critical before purchasing any used example.
General recommendations
Only suitable for buyers who can thoroughly verify a complete and meticulous service history from a single owner. Strongly recommended to purchase an extended warranty due to widespread reliability concerns. Not recommended as a primary vehicle for families or those who cannot afford unexpected, significant repairs. Prospective buyers must be prepared to address complex electrical gremlins and major powertrain issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with the model's common faults is essential.
Remarks
The stark dichotomy in owner reports suggests extreme variability in build quality or severe sensitivity to maintenance. The 1.4L turbo engine is noted as sharing its platform with the Fiat 500 and Jeep Renegade, and its reliability is described as "just below average." The 2.4L engine's oil consumption issue was subject to a manufacturer recall and class-action lawsuit. Electrical problems are frequently described as "gremlins," with suggested fixes focusing on checking and upgrading ground wire connections to the frame rail, fender, and body control module. Analysis based on substantive owner discussions covering model years 2013-2016.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2016Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 257 | 5 | power train |
| 2015 | 525 | 6 | power train |
| 2014 | 371 | 4 | power train |
| 2013 | 1,171 | 1 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices16 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2016 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 19V293000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The shifter cable bushing may fail allowing the shift cable to detach from the transmission.
2016 · equipmentcampaign 17V824000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
2016 · visibility:windshield wiper/washercampaign 16V813000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured April 13, 2015, to June 7, 2016. Due to voltage spikes caused by a problem within the windshield washer pump, the windshield wiper circuit may fail.
2016 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 16V113000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured July 25, 2015, to December 16, 2015 and equipped with a 2.0L engine and a manual transmission. Additionally included are certain 2015 Dodge Dart vehicles similarly equipped and brought in for dealer service between September 15, 2015 and January 12, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the powertrain control module that monitors the engine torque output may be missing a backup layer of software.
2016 · power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shiftcampaign 25V674000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles. The shifter cable may detach from the transmission, preventing the vehicle from shifting into the park (P) position and causing a loss of park function.
2015 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 19V293000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The shifter cable bushing may fail allowing the shift cable to detach from the transmission.
2015 · equipmentcampaign 17V824000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
2015 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 15V542000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured February 24, 2012, to June 16, 2015. The affected vehicles may experience failure of the transmission control module (TCM), causing the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.
2015 · tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systemscampaign 14V800000
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2015 Dodge Dart Aero vehicles manufactured August 24, 2014, to October 28, 2014. The affected vehicles were built with a premium instrument cluster and Lowline Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The TPMS warning light may not illuminate when low tire pressure is detected. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 138, "Tire pressure monitoring systems."
2015 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 16V113000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured July 25, 2015, to December 16, 2015 and equipped with a 2.0L engine and a manual transmission. Additionally included are certain 2015 Dodge Dart vehicles similarly equipped and brought in for dealer service between September 15, 2015 and January 12, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the powertrain control module that monitors the engine torque output may be missing a backup layer of software.
2015 · power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shiftcampaign 25V674000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles. The shifter cable may detach from the transmission, preventing the vehicle from shifting into the park (P) position and causing a loss of park function.
2014 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 19V293000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The shifter cable bushing may fail allowing the shift cable to detach from the transmission.
2014 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 15V800000
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured February 27, 2012 to January 23, 2014 and equipped with either a 2.0L or 2.4L engine. In affected vehicles, engine oil from the vacuum pump may seep into the brake booster, damaging a component within the brake booster.
2014 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 15V542000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured February 24, 2012, to June 16, 2015. The affected vehicles may experience failure of the transmission control module (TCM), causing the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.
2014 · power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shiftcampaign 25V674000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles. The shifter cable may detach from the transmission, preventing the vehicle from shifting into the park (P) position and causing a loss of park function.
1 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: PF
2.4 MultiAir II
2.4L 4-cylinder · 184 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2013–2016