Dodge Dart Reliability and Common Problems

Lisa Conant, Automotive Features Reviewer at CarParts.com

Reviewed by

Lisa Conant, Automotive Content Specialist

Automotive Features Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on February 16th, 2024

Reading Time: 4 minutes
Summary
  • The Dodge Dart received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal.
  • The most common Dodge Dart problems include excessive oil consumption in the 2015 model year, stalling in the 2014 Dart, and damaged sun visors for the 2013 Dart.
  • Other common issues for the 2013 Dodge Dart involve its brakes, suspension, transmission, and battery.

The Dodge Dart is one of the reasons for the brand’s success in the 1960s. While its comeback in 2013 wasn’t all that successful in terms of sales, this compact and efficient sedan remains a great daily driver. If you’re thinking about buying a pre-owned Dodge Dart, it’s helpful to know about the common issues you may encounter as your car racks up mileage.

Are Dodge Darts Reliable?

RepairPal gave the Dodge Dart an above-average reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 28th out of 36 compact cars. The 2016 Dodge Dart received a 4.2 out of 5.0 consumer rating from Kelley Blue Book and scored 78 out of 100 from J.D Power, falling short of the top 10 sedans of that year.

As long as you follow your Dart’s recommended maintenance schedule and replace faulty components immediately, you can make the most out of your car’s service life.

Common Dodge Dart Problems

Just like any other car, the Dodge Dart may develop issues over time. Here are some of the most common problems across its model years:

Excessive Oil Consumption

If you plan to buy a used 2015 Dodge Dart, you may want to watch out for excessive oil consumption. Many owners noticed that they had to top up their engine oil every 1,000 miles, while others determined that their Dart had been consuming 1-2 quarts of oil every 1,000-2,000 miles.

The solution for this problem will vary depending on your mechanic’s diagnosis. Several owners had to swap out their faulty oil rings for new ones, while some had to get an engine replacement to resolve the issue.

Engine Stalling

Many 2014 Dodge Dart owners have complained that their engine suddenly stalls or dies while they’re on the road. Some had to jumpstart their vehicle to get it running again. In most cases, mechanics found no issue with their car’s battery.

Many 2014 Dodge Dart owners complain that their engine suddenly stalls or dies while they’re on the road. Image source: Wikimedia.

Drivers have also reported stiff steering and braking issues that seem to come out of nowhere. Mechanics have linked these drivability problems to low oil pressure, malfunctioning sensors, and faulty wiring. A software update for the engine computer also worked for some affected vehicles.

Suspension System Issues

Problems with the suspension system top the list of 2013 Dodge Dart common problems. Some owners have reported that their front passenger side axle snapped without warning. What puzzled them was that most of them were not involved in a collision, which may have compromised the integrity of their suspension system.

Suspension system problems increase the risk of road accidents. Good thing replacing the faulty components solves most of them. There’s no shortage of replacement control arms, knuckles, and axles available on the market, so finding one for your Dodge Dart will be easy.

Malfunctioning Transmission

Another common issue reported by several 2013 Dodge Dart owners involves their vehicle’s transmission. Owners shared that affected cars jumped out of gear a few times while they were on the road. In some cases, their Dart also made grinding noises and got stuck at neutral.

If you’re starting to notice transmission-related issues with your Dodge Dart, don’t hesitate to bring it to an auto repair shop for proper diagnosis and repair. Replacing the whole transmission solved the issue on most affected vehicles.

Broken Sun Visor

Some 2013 Dodge Dart owners have also complained about problems with their interior accessories. Several drivers said that their passenger side sun visor snapped even though they rarely use it. Some speculated that the plastic tube holding the visor in place isn’t durable, causing the part to fall off easily. Thankfully, this issue can be solved by replacing the faulty sun visor.

Battery Failure

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. Owners of the affected vehicles had to replace their battery or alternator to solve the issue.

Brake-related Issues

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) issued a recall to address the 2013 model year’s brake problems. The recall covered Darts fitted with incorrect rear brake calipers, which may cause the vehicle’s parking brakes to malfunction.

Some owners also complained about unusual noises coming from their brakes. However, when they took their vehicle to an auto repair shop, mechanics found nothing wrong with the parts.

These are only some of the issues that your Dodge Dart can develop as it racks up mileage. By doing your research before purchasing any car, you can save time and money by avoiding costly repairs. Once you’ve chosen the right model year for you, stick to its maintenance schedule and replace faulty parts immediately to keep it in top shape for a long time.

Where to Get Auto Parts and Accessories for Your Dodge Dart

A broken sun visor, a stalling engine, or a failing battery are some of the common issues that drivers have reported while driving their Dodge Dart. Aside from sticking to your vehicle’s scheduled maintenance, you’ll also need replacement Dodge Dart parts and accessories to comfortably get back on the road. Thankfully, CarParts.com has you covered with an array of high-quality products for you to choose from.

Our website and app are designed with drivers like you in mind. Everything takes just a few clicks, from checking for vehicle fitment and sorting items by brand to making a secure payment.

We also have strategically located warehouses equipped with the latest technologies. This ensures a more efficient ordering and delivery process. Order before noon ET and expect your order to arrive in as fast as two business days.

Get your Dodge Dart back on the road in no time by shopping at CarParts.com today!

About The Authors
Reviewed By Lisa Conant

Automotive Features Reviewer at CarParts.com

Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.

Written By CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

View Comments

  • The engine stalls out when the oil pressure gets too low. Thusly I believe it is related to the oil burning issue. It is NOT a battery issue. Then again, this has only happened to me in the wintertime. Oil changes need to more frequent (as compared with other modern day cars) and as stated in the article, you need to check your oil regularly and often.

    • During the last, about 40 days, 5 yes, 5 times my car would not start. Twice, my car started by turning the key on and off 5-8 times. I've since learned that if I simply pull out the oil dip stick then returned the dip stick my car will start. This has been proven 3 times now. My engine light is now on but when the gentleman from O'Reilly's tried to get a code, there wasnt one. Yes, he checked with the key in, out, turned on, and with the car running...no code.
      SMH!

    • As one of the founding members of the Dodge Dart Owner's Club on Facebook I can assure you that 90% of the stalling issues stems from the low oil condition you stated above...some models had a recall to repair the oil consumption problem. That being said the Dart GT is the best of the various models and the best of the 3 engines that were offered was the 2.4 litre MultiAir. I own 2 of these GT models and have only had minor issues.

  • I have a 2013 Dodge Dart limited 2.0 if I knew that those cars suck so bad.😡They need to be investigated. I use to love my dodge dart until it start stalling. Then of course the visor battery fuses accelerator pedal sensor oil sensor battery throttle body sensor alternator it will not start now. Brought brand new battery and Alternator 😠 still won't start they the list goes on there is so many codes 🤬 coming up oil pressure sensor. Well this took the case Went to 2 different dealers they said the radio have a lot to do with car not working the radio suppose to be hook up to wiring brought a new radio for car nothing 😞 im so out done I love my dodge dart they need to be sued or class action settlement to every body that have problems with dodge. I was looking at some of complaint. People are complaining about the same things
    They need to ashamed of there self. Never seen nothing like it have to buy alternator again almost 600.00 for one
    parts is so high 😞 I can't keep doing this. My S.S check is going all in that car. Can't really afford a new one they knew that is why they stop 🛑 making them. I took go care of my car 🚗 really they need to start giving these people there money back
    Do not buy a dodge the are to high to Keep uo

    • I jus bought a dodge dart for 5000$ and it barely last four days and the peadeal went to. The. Floor and it runs great but won't nove

  • I have a 2013 dodge dart rally , the issue I’m having is sometimes I put the key in turn the key and it won’t start ? My battery is good everything is tight on battery. Sometimes you turn the key it starts right up like it should sometimes it doesn’t. I spoke to another Dart owner yesterday he said his done the same thing and eventually it would start at all he said he replaced the starter and it fixed it. What’s your opinion?

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CarParts.com Research Team and Lisa Conant