Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 261 | −46% | 5 | Transmission | Good |
| 2015 | 528 | 1.7× | 6 | Transmission | Caution |
| 2014 | 372 | typical | 4 | Transmission | Average |
| 2013 | 286 | −55% | 1 | Transmission | Good |
| 2012 | 1,081 | 4.1× | 6 | Transmission | Avoid |
* Complaints compared with the median Dart year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Dodge Dart problems
Latest Dodge Dart recalls
Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Floor shift
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.
Remedy: Vehicles that were previously repaired under recall 19V293 will need to have the new remedy completed. Dealers will replace the shifter cable assembly and install a cap, free of charge.
Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Floor shift
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.
Remedy: This recall will be replaced by NHTSA recall number 25V674. Vehicles already repaired under this recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
Equipment
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.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018.
Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
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.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windshield washer pumps, free of charge. The recall began on December 28, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Electrical system › Software
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.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Engine Control Module software, free of charge. The recall began on March 25, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Dodge Dart should you avoid?
2012 and 2015 — these years have the most complaints relative to other Dart years at the same age, led by transmission & drivetrain problems in the 2012.
What is the best year for the Dodge Dart?
2013 has the fewest complaints compared with other Dart years at the same age, followed by 2016. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Dodge Dart problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the transmission & drivetrain (1,013), engine & cooling (537) and electrical system (472). Transmission complaints peak in the 2012 model year.
How many recalls has the Dodge Dart had?
11 recalls across 2012–2016. The model year with the most is 2012. See all Dodge Dart recalls by year.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.