Dodge Avenger problems
The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-sized sedan that was marketed by Dodge. The Avenger made its North American debut in 1994 for the 1995 model year as a coupe that was produced until 2000. The model name was reintroduced to the market as a four-door sports sedan starting in 2007 for the 2008 model year. The Dodge Avenger name had earlier been used on South African market Hillman Avengers in 1975 and 1976.
The 2014 model year marked the end of Avenger production as the mid-sized models for both the Dodge and Chrysler brands were consolidated into the new Chrysler 200 introduced for the 2015 model year while Dodge received the new compact Dart.
Nameplate history
The first use of the Dodge Avenger name was on a badge engineered version of the European Hillman Avenger, exclusive to South Africa. The same car was sold in North America as the Plymouth Cricket between 1972 and 1974. In place of the Hillman engines, this version used a Peugeot 1.6 litre engine (as also installed in locally assembled Peugeot 404s) in order to satisfy local content requirements. The Dodge-branded Avenger was introduced in 1975 and was then renamed Chrysler in 1976. This generation has nothing in common with later Dodge Avengers. After Chrysler ZA was merged into Sigma in 1976, the Avenger was soon cancelled to allow Sigma to free up more production capacity for the Mazda 323.
Social links
Dodge Avenger model years
Common Dodge Avenger problems
Based on the complaints from Dodge Avenger owners, here are some common problems with the Dodge Avenger:
- Engine Stalling:
- Stalling engines in 2008-2014 Dodge Avengers have been a significant concern. Causes range from faulty Totally Integrated Power Modules (TIPMs) to throttle bodies needing replacement. Repair costs vary depending on the root cause, with some owners spending around $300 for throttle issues in 2008 models and at least $1,000 for TIPM replacement in 2012 models.
- Engine Not Starting:
- Starting problems have been reported in several model years of the Dodge Avenger. Some 2008-2014 models experience issues due to the anti-theft system, potentially caused by electrostatic discharge affecting the wireless control module.
- Defective Transmission System (2008 Model):
- The 2008 Avenger has faced complaints and recalls due to a defective transmission system, particularly with the gear shift module locking up. This issue can occur at low mileage and may require costly repairs. Owners have reported the gear shift getting stuck in park, leading to immobility and safety risks.
- Faulty Electrical System (2011 Model):
- The 2011 Avenger has been associated with 371 complaints and three recalls, with a notable concern being the faulty electrical system. Users have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including lack of heat on one side of the car and the A/C system activating when controls are off. This can be problematic in extreme weather conditions.
These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by Dodge Avenger owners, ranging from brake issues to more serious concerns like engine stalling and starting problems. Owners should be aware of these common problems when considering purchasing a Dodge Avenger.
Is the Dodge Avenger a reliable car?
According to carparts.com, the Dodge Avenger is not just a reliable vehicle but also very fairly priced compared to the competition. You will find excellent average scores for the Dodge Avenger's reliability. It's a quality vehicle even though it was discontinued almost a decade ago.
How many miles will a Dodge Avenger last?
You can expect a standard Dodge Avenger to survive around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, though some will last far longer with proper maintenance. Some Dodge Avengers are okay to invest in if they have more than 100,000 miles, but those without proper maintenance from former owners should be avoided.
Why did they discontinue Dodge Avenger?
Replacement. The coupe did not achieve high sales numbers, so in 2000, the Avenger was discontinued. It was replaced by the Dodge Stratus coupe for 2001.
What are the most common problems with a 2010 Dodge Avenger?
Top 2010 Dodge Avenger Problems
- Engine May Not Start at Times. ...
- Automatic Transmission May Have Shifting Problems. ...
- Knocking Noise From the AC Compressor. ...
- Dodge issues recall on connector for cooling fan motor. ...
- Sensor Failure Inside Distributor May Cause Stalling/Starting Issues. ...
- Wet Carpet Due to Plugged Evaporator Drain.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Avenger years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Avenger cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Avenger model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Avenger model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Avenger years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Avenger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Avenger , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Avenger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Avenger model years
A total of 234 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Avenger model years
There were a total of 67 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Avenger model years
There were a total of 217 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Avenger model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3238 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Avenger . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Avenger vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Avenger 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 1C3CDZCB4CN
- Components: ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start at intended. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the catalytic convertor. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 137,000.
Dodge Avenger 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB8CN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an auto repair shop where it was diagnosed that there was an open circuit in the front driver’s side air bag squib. The contact was informed that the air bag squib needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 227,000.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1C3CDZCB1DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that the throttle body warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle later failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the throttle body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the A/C system and defrost system were malfunctioning. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the three actuator motors had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB0DN
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: I was driving my car and the active headrests on the driver side and passenger side both deployed prematurely. I wasn't in any collisions and the headrests deployed. It was very unexpected when they went off as i was driving to school it put both my safety and my sisters safety at risk when they deployed. As stated previously i am unsure as to why they went off as i was never involved in any collisions. There were no warning lamps or any messages prior to them deploying.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1C3CDZCB3DN
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving 50-55 MPH, the vehicle stalled and lost power steering functionality. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road by using physical strength. The vehicle was restarted after several attempts. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start later the same day. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V552000 (Engine); however, the VIN was not included. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB6DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The TIPM failed causing the car to shut off and not start again. The problem has been confirmed by Upstate Auto. There was a recall on the TIPM but it was not replaced instead some occupant restraints were replaced instead and now the manufacturer does not make the TIPM part anymore.
Dodge Avenger 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB0CN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have been unable to get the safety belt part for the recall. Additionally, it keeps saying I need to replace the gas cap and even the dealership cant help me.
Dodge Avenger 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-03
- VIN: 1B3CC4FB9AN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Right turn signal has gone dismantled. It works erratically. Previously Baxter changed it. It had warranty for 3 years or 36000 miles. 3 years has passed but it did not surpassed 36000 miles yet. New motherboard of this system unavailable in market.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-23
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB6DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I urgently need your assistance regarding a critical and unsafe situation concerning the PCM/ECU. Recently, while driving, my car began to shudder as if it was on the verge of stalling. To add to the alarming situation, every warning light on the dashboard illuminated. The speedometer and thermostat suddenly stopped functioning, leaving me without crucial information about the vehicle's speed and temperature. This not only compromised my safety but also made it impossible to gauge the car's performance. In response to this hazardous scenario, I immediately pulled over to a stop. Sadly, the car shut off, and despite my attempts, it has refused to restart ever since. The inability to restart presents a severe safety issue and has left me stranded without transportation. Compounding this ordeal, several auto shops have tried to address the PCM/ECU connectivity issues with no success. This recurring problem, combined with the recent dangerous episode on the road, underscores the urgency for resolution. I am deeply concerned about the potential risks posed by the malfunctioning PCM/ECU and the compromised safety of both myself and others on the road. The inability to accurately monitor speed and temperature could have dire consequences if left unaddressed.
Dodge Avenger 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 1C3CDZCG7EN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: test
Dodge Avenger 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 1B3CC5FB8AN
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while attempting to lower the driver's side window, the window fell off the track and fell into the door panel. The contact stated that the failure became a regular occurrence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the window regulator. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred an additional five times. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 175,000.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-28
- VIN: 1C3CDZCG7DN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that the power window switch on the driver’s side door occasionally failed to respond while depressed. The contact stated that the A/C system would blow hot air through the vents. In addition, the A/C was recently charged, and the spread pan was repaired months prior. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the Total Integrated Power Module (TIPM) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB2DN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Driver side head rest exploded.
Dodge Avenger 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-13
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB5CN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The vehicle has intermittent (brake) (ABS) and (Traction control) lights. I took the vehicle to Airport dodge in Orlando Florida. They advised the ABS module and pump are faulty however there are no repairs available at this time. The most concerning was they advised to continue to drive the vehicle without ABS.
Dodge Avenger 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 1C3CDZAB1DN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Beginning in September 2023, my parking brake light would periodically light up even when the parking brake was not engaged. At the time, I didn't think much of it. This persisted until the middle of January 2024. Beginning in mid January 2024, my parking brake light, traction control light, and ABS light were all lit up on my dashboard. I took my vehicle into my mechanic on January 30, 2024 and they diagnosed it as an ABS internal module failure. They said they were unable to make the repair and said that I would need to take it into a Dodge dealership. I then took it to my local Dodge dealership on February 2, 2024 and they also diagnosed the problem as an ABS internal module failure. The dealership told me that the particular module needed was under "Engineer Review" at Chrysler. They said that any ABS module currently on the market for my vehicle were considered "defective" and that I would need to wait for the Engineer Review to be completed in order to receive a new, correctly working ABS module. I was told by both my regular mechanic, as well as the dealership, that my car was dangerous to drive in its current condition. I was told by both the dealership and a Dodge customer service representative that this Engineer Review would be completed in April 2024. It is now June 10, 2024 and the Review still has not been completed and I am still without a working ABS module for my vehicle. I am unwilling to put my safety, my child's safety, and the safety of other drivers at risk by continuing to drive a dangerous vehicle. Because of this, I have not been able to drive my vehicle since the beginning of February. After continuous calls and emails to Dodge, I was told the Review would be completed between 4/20/24-4/25/24. I later found out this estimated completion date was incorrect. I have been given no new timeline of when this Engineer Review is to be completed and when I will be receiving a new part.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Avenger
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 55 recalls for different components of the Dodge Avenger.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Avenger 2013
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-10
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012 Jeep Liberty and 2012-2013 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger vehicles. A component within the occupant restraint controller (ORC) may fail and prevent the active headrests from deploying in the event of a rear-end crash.
- Consequence: If the active headrests do not deploy in certain rear-end crashes, the front seat occupants have an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ORC as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2017. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is T56.
- Model: Dodge Avenger 2012
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-10
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012 Jeep Liberty and 2012-2013 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger vehicles. A component within the occupant restraint controller (ORC) may fail and prevent the active headrests from deploying in the event of a rear-end crash.
- Consequence: If the active headrests do not deploy in certain rear-end crashes, the front seat occupants have an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ORC as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2017. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is T56.
- Model: Dodge Avenger 2014
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
- Model: Dodge Avenger 2013
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
- Model: Dodge Avenger 2011
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
Latest negative Dodge Avenger car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Avenger car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2014
Make sure your thermostats are working. By the way, this car handles awesome and the 4cyl is pretty quick too. The sound system is decent enough that I'm not going to change it until I blow a speaker. Also, the trunk space is big. Your tires are 225 which is awesome for a little car.
-
Vehicle year: 1996
I am so glad to hear that your son is safe after the collision. It sounds like the 1996 Avenger ES was a reliable and well-built car that did its job in protecting your son. It's understandable that he is upset about losing his first car, but it's great to hear that he formed a bond with it. The car's design seems to have been well thought out, with comfortable seats and easy access for a car seat. It's great to hear that the car handled well and was fun to drive, with no major issues. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with the Avenger ES.
-
Vehicle year: 1999
I love this car! It's just that the turning radius is a bit wider than usual, which can make U-turns a bit of a hassle, especially if you're like me and tend to get lost a lot.
-
Vehicle year: 2012
I love this vehicle! It's actually my first domestic vehicle ever owned, so I was a bit nervous. However, I've only had one major repair, which was the alternator at around 115k miles. Although it cost me 1200 bucks due to its labor-intensive location, it was worth it. I've had a few other minor problems, such as the passenger window switch quitting working, the radiator filler neck breaking, and the gas cap causing a vacuum leak. But, these repairs were so easy to do and cost me under $20 each DIY. Considering her mileage and the level of use I put her through, she's amazing! It's fun to drive, and I get compliments on it all the time. I even have the alloy wheels from Dodge, so it looks real fancy!
-
Vehicle year: 2012
I bought the car for my wife who loves it! Despite some people saying it's not good in the snow, it has performed well (this separates the drivers from the others). On long trips, the driver's seat feels more like the seat in an F-14. It's not so comfy from Maine to Connecticut. Make sure to do your homework and look it over really well. For us, it's been a reliable car with no major malfunctions. And of course, my wife is happy - you know how that goes!!
Are you having problems with your Dodge Avenger?
Ahmed Mueller 2024-11-28
Vehicle year: 1996
I bought the car brand new, but unfortunately, I started to dislike it after only two years. Eventually, after 9.5 years and 70,000 miles, I decided it was time to move on. I had to replace the transmission after just three years and 30,000 miles, and now it's acting up again. The O2 sensor light has been on for the past four years, and I've replaced virtually every sensor, including a $600 part of the manifold. The door panel has been falling apart for two years now, and the struts, ball joints, and bushings were all worn out by 50,000 miles. The rack and pinion also gave out at 60,000 miles. The final straw was when the control arm snapped, causing the car to drop. My mechanic suggested that I get rid of the car quickly, as it's literally rotting away.
Uriah Sawayn 2024-11-27
Vehicle year: 2000
I hope you're enjoying your 2000 Avenger Es! It's a great car for the money, with a sharp look and some pep to it. The only downside is that it looks faster than it drives...
Moses Kohler 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2008
I am confident in stating that the Avenger has not met my expectations as a commuter/family car. Despite having driven only 42000 miles, the car has been in the dealer 12 times due to various issues, including being stranded on the freeway twice. The transmission shifts poorly, the trunk leaks water when opened, and the car creaks and rattles excessively. Additionally, it is difficult to clean and maintain, and I have had to replace the front rotors twice with a third set needed. As a result, I have decided to pay it off and trade it in.
Moses Schneider 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 1999
This car seems to be costing you a lot of money.
Elmo McGlynn 2024-11-10
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased my 2008 Avenger in April 2008. Although I had high hopes for it, I have been experiencing some issues. The brakes grind, and the door and side panels make a lot of noise, which has been difficult to fix. I have also had to replace my MyGig radio multiple times due to it freezing up. The transmission can be sluggish at times, and there are some front noises when turning or going over bumps. Additionally, the AC doesn't work as well as I would like, and there are a few blind spots. The chrome plastic around the shifter inside can be distracting, and the trunk design could be improved to prevent water from getting in. Overall, I would not recommend this car. However, I did have a great experience with a brand new Avenger back in 1997, so it's possible that this is just a fluke. Please keep this in mind when making your decision.