2013 Dodge Dart: common problems and reliability

The 2013 Dodge Dart has 1152 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are power train and service brakes. Owners most often flag severe 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. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2013 model year

1,152
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
65
Crash reports
14
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2013 Dodge Dart vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

power train
504
service brakes
283
electrical system
183
engine
173
air bags
70

Recalls affecting the 2013 Dart

power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:floor shift

Campaign 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 fun

What owners say across generations

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

  • Severe 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. Frequency: very frequent.
  • 2.4L 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. Frequency: very frequent.
  • DDCT (Dual Dry Clutch Transmission) failure — transmission began "acting up" around 200,000 miles, cited as a primary reason for selling the vehicle. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Poor 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). Frequency: isolated.
  • General 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. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Dart.

Typical used price

Used Dart listings typically run $6,800–$8,704 across 2013 to 2016 model years.