Dodge Nitro problems
The Dodge Nitro is a compact SUV manufactured and marketed by Dodge for model years 2007-2012 across a single generation — as a close variant of the second-generation Jeep Liberty. Both vehicles use a composite unitized construction integrating the body structure with full-length frame rails.
The Nitro entered production in August 2006 aside the Liberty at the Toledo North Assembly Plant in Toledo, Ohio and was offered in a single, four-door body configuration. Like the Liberty, it was manufactured in RHD and LHD configurations, and marketed globally. Sales commenced in September 2006 for model year 2007 in rear-wheel drive or optional and part-time four-wheel drive. Approximately 200,000 Nitro models were manufactured before production ended in December 2011.
Background
The Nitro debuted in February 2005 at the Chicago Auto Show as a concept with aluminum-trimmed vents door handles and rear hatch, as well as an interior with a center stack and shifter in satin silver.
The Nitro became Dodge's first compact SUV model since the Raider was discontinued in 1990. It also became the first modern Dodge marketed in Europe, where the Nitro was Dodge's only SUV until the 2009 model year when the larger, car-based, lower-priced Dodge Journey crossover SUV arrived.
The Nitro shares mechanicals and much bodywork with its platform-mate, the Jeep Liberty, while using a slightly extended wheelbase, the extra length split between the rear seat and cargo areas.
The Nitro debuted with an SUV class-leading 5,000-pound (2,300 kg) towing capacity. Safety features such as electronic roll mitigation, traction control, and side curtain airbags, as well as a functional sliding cargo floor marketed as Load 'N Go were offered as standard equipment. The system allows a moveable floor panel to slide out from the cargo area by 18 in (457 mm) to ease loading.
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Dodge Nitro model years
Common Dodge Nitro problems
The Dodge Nitro has been plagued with a number of issues across multiple years, including problems with the electrical system, fuel system, power train, and more.
The 2007 model of the Dodge Nitro had a particularly high number of complaints, with 788 documented issues and seven recalls. The major fault of the 2007 Nitro lies in its widespread electrical issues, which can cause the locks and lights to activate independently, the windows to roll down by themselves, the horn to sound randomly, and the car to stall while driving. These issues are often traced back to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which is prone to malfunction in this model year.
The 2008 Nitro is also plagued by reliability woes, with over 700 complaints and three recalls. The bulk of the reports for this model year lament the car's faulty electrical system and TIPM, which can cause the TIPM to fail and lead to a range of electrical issues.
The 2009 model of the Dodge Nitro had problems with the electrical system, latches/locks/linkages, airbags, fuel/propulsion system, and unknown or other issues. This model year is particularly prone to problems with the electrical system, which can affect the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
The 2010 model of the Dodge Nitro faced issues with the electrical system, fuel/proppulsion system, service brakes, engine, and airbags. These issues can affect the safety and reliability of the vehicle, and may require costly repairs.
The 2011 model of the Dodge Nitro had problems with the electrical system, airbags, engine, powertrain, and fuel/propulsion system. Despite these issues, this model year may still be a good choice for those looking for a rugged and reliable SUV with a spacious interior and powerful engine.
In addition to these specific model year issues, the Dodge Nitro has also been plagued by transmission and computer problems, electrical issues causing lights to turn on and off, and problems with the retaining nut on the valve stem that can damage the inside of the tire.
Overall, potential buyers of the Dodge Nitro should be aware of these issues and take steps to address them as needed. It is important to thoroughly research the vehicle and its history before making a purchase, and to consider the costs and risks associated with these common problems.
Is the Dodge Nitro a reliable vehicle?
The Dodge Nitro is a reliable machine that needs less maintenance than most models in its segment. But like any other vehicle, it's important to replace worn-out or failed components right away to keep it running at its best.
What is the best year for a Dodge Nitro?
The Dodge Nitro has several excellent years and others that aren't as ideal. We recommend the 2010 and 2011 options to ensure you get the most out of your money. It's well worth the purchase, so long as you stick with the years with the best track record.
How many miles will a Dodge Nitro last?
A Dodge Nitro will almost certainly last more than 150,000 miles, it'll probably last at least 200,000 with adequate maintenance, and it could go 250,000 miles or more with excellent care.
Why was the Dodge Nitro recalled?
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 DODGE NITRO PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEM MAY EXPERIENCE A CONDITION OVER TIME WHERE HIGH USAGE OF THE VARIABLE PAUSE WIPER FUNCTION (DELAY MODE) MAY EVENTUALLY AFFECT PRIMARY WIPER FUNCTION, RENDERING THE WIPER SYSTEM INOPERABLE.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Nitro years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Nitro cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Nitro model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Nitro model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Nitro years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Nitro car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Nitro , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Nitro vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Nitro model years
A total of 49 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 Nitro model years
There were a total of 33 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 Nitro model years
There were a total of 58 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1442 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Nitro . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Nitro vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Nitro 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1D4PU5GK0BW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I am experiencing electrical issues with my 2011 Dodge Nitro SXT. Despite replacing the alternator and battery, the SUV continues to have operational problems. Additionally, I replaced the TMP. I subsequently took the vehicle to a local mechanical shop, where it was confirmed that the issue lies with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). I have read about a recall related to electrical issues in the Nitro, and I would like to inquire about the possibility of obtaining reimbursement. Thank you for your assistance.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-12
- VIN: 1D8GU58K48W
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ESP BAS LIGHTS (APPEARED AFTER). AS I WAS DRIVING, THE CAR FELT LIKE IT HIT A BRICK WALL EVEN THOUGH IT DIDNT, IT SLAMMED ME INTO THE STEERING WHEEL AND THEN CONTINUED DRIVING. AT THAT POINT, THE ESP BAS LIGHT CAME ON. HAVE ATTEMPTED TO CONTACT DODGE OR CHRYSLER BY PHONE WITH NO CHANCE AT REACHING A PERSON CAUSE OF ROBOTIC ANSWERING SERVICES.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-22
- VIN: 1D8GU58K28W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TIPM connectors melted. Ground wires melted.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-19
- VIN: 1D8GU28K08W
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle throws the abs, esp,break and traction control lights and then while driving completely at random then turns off WHILE DRIVING!!!! which can cause an accident (I and my daughter are lucky to be alive) this is not ok the vehicle drives fine then at random throws those lights and shuts off after restarting it the check engine light comes on and says the transmission shift solenoid b is malfunction and the vehicle wouldn't shift properly. Luckily I had my code reader I. The car with me I cleared the code and now the car drives fine until this happens again I'm scared to drive it this is dangerous their's no warning. I drive on the highway everyday their's no warning it happens at random 2 times I've been lucky. No codes came up driving after clearing it and the car drives fine now but it's happened 2 times while driving this is extremely dangerous and I don't know what to do because with the codes gone the issues are gone but they randomly all the lights mentioned above come on and then the car shuts off with no warning then when you restart it it throws a different code for a different problem the first time was a low voltage code I cleared it and even Tho my battery tested good I replaced it and two days later the same issue and a different code
Dodge Nitro 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-12
- VIN: 1D4PU5GK9AW
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Dodge Nitro. The contact received a recall notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V396000 (Air Bags, Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was intermittently illuminated. An undisclosed dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part may not be available, and the contact was informed that she would receive a call back to schedule an appointment but had not yet received a callback. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Dodge Nitro 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-04
- VIN: 1D4PU4GKXBW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost electrical and motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure had since become a regular occurrence. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 103,000.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-28
- VIN: 1D8GU28K18W
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Power steering locks up, power steering fluid not helping. Looks like oil mixed in with the coolant. Car smoking and overheating
Dodge Nitro 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-09
- VIN: 1D8GT28K57W
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I had my vehicle a week before it start misfiring it’s been months I had it worked on numerous times and still has not been fixed. When I try to crank it I have to keep my foot on the gas and if I let go it will cut back off I had so many parts replaced and the issue remain the same
Dodge Nitro 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-03
- VIN: 1D8GU58K47W
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Took car in for windshield wiper safety recall on 3/24/23. BEFORE the recall the wipers worked perfectly. After the dealer serviced the wipers they sometimes would not go off and then seemed to be stalling a lot but I did not have many occasions where I needed to use the wipers as I work from home and have a second car in the household. Today I was driving in a severe thunderstorm when they stopped working completely. In fact, they are now stuck in the upright position and will not move. This is EXTREMELY dangerous and exactly what the recall was meant to avoid! It makes me wonder if the mechanics actually did anything to my car at all.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1D8GU58608W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2008 Dodge nitro in a collision going between 35 and 45 miles per hour had a major rear end accident. Police paramedics and fire came on scene. The air bags never deployed. This vehicle was taken for the air bags emblem recall in 2022. The vehicle should have air bags that deploy.
Dodge Nitro 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1D8GU58658W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Was driving tipm caught fire Now insurance telling me moisture and corrosion
Dodge Nitro 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-13
- VIN: 1D8GT58K77W
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that the underbody shield was striking the drive shaft while driving. The vehicle was serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number 13V121000 (Power Train, Air Bags, Structure) however, the fix failed to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 201,500.
Dodge Nitro 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-15
- VIN: 1D8GU58K59W
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Nitro. The contact received recall notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V396000 (Air Bag, Steering) however, the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair where the emblem was removed however, the emblem was then replaced due to parts were unavailable to complete the recall . The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Dodge Nitro 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-12
- VIN: 1D8GT58K27W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car didn’t want to start after seeing a check engine light saying cylinder 2 misfire then 4 had fuel pump replaced still had check engine light and was misfiring afterwards a week or two the truck stalled while driving off freeway in middle of traffic breakers did not work, car frozen almost wrecked. I had it towed back to garage and they replace fuel pump again but car won’t stay on it will turn on then shut off by itself not showing any codes mechanics can’t find issue over 2 weeks at garage already!!
Dodge Nitro 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-11
- VIN: 1D4PU2GKXBW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Airbags: This vehicle has had a recall for a "Ram" emblem being placed over the airbag such that it becomes a projectile in an airbag depleyment. Dodge makes it very difficult to avail of getting it removed. I am not close to the dealership, I am very busy and somewhat disabled. Since the first notice arrived in the mail-- maybe three years ago-- I have returned the notices with a request for them to send a tech to my home and make the repair. I see there has been at least one death due to this obvious flaw, butthey have not cared enough to answer. Why should I take a day so that they can fix this deadly "extra feature" of shrapnel being placed over an explosive? Electrical: This is a serious safety issue that Dodge will not recognize or even discuss. Getting the window back up is a matter of finessing the "up" switch every which way, multiple attempts required (switch has now fallen out). Very distracting, after going through a toll booth after dark and 15 degrees. You can't stop and F with it, you have to do it on the move. It can take as long as five minutes to get it back up (Window now completely disabled). They will do anything to save seventeen cents per car, who cares if it makes it unsafe for the owner. Not Dodge! I wrote to Dodge (no reply), then the MI Attorney General about this, they responded "We have written to this manufacturer twice and have not received a response". Dodge takes no responsibility for their shoddy work. We pay, we die, they keep doing what they do. It disappoints that even the AG's "Consumer Protection Division" has no teeth. Visibility: It would be interesting to learn how many pedestrians have been hit with this particular model. With all the safety regs out there, it's amazing that a design that blocks visibility gets a pass. Unfortunately it is not the kind of thing you can discover in a test drive, but - crosswalks and four-way stops in particular are dangerous. You can hide a Ryder truck behind these A pillars.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Nitro
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 18 recalls for different components of the Dodge Nitro.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Nitro 2011
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Nitro 2008
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Nitro 2010
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Nitro 2009
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Nitro 2007
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
Latest negative Dodge Nitro car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Nitro car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
I recently purchased the 2008 Nitro and I have to say it was a great buy for me. I'm a bit surprised by the complaints about the handling, as I think it handles great. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2007
This vehicle has all the features you need at a reasonable price. It can tow up to 5,000 Lbs and you can switch from 2WD to 4WD on the fly! It has ample storage and roomy seating. Best of all, it looks amazing! The other vehicles you tested looked too common. The fuel mileage is 16 MPG, but you can expect this to improve as the engine breaks in since it has only 1,000 miles on it.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Nice truck! It's so much fun to drive and the price is great. I absolutely love the look! While it may lack a bit of power, it still drives really nicely. I've driven a 2009 Equinox before and it's just not as nice as my Nitro. Overall, I give it two thumbs up!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I've owned my 2008 Dodge Nitro for almost 2 years now and I must say it's one of the best vehicles I've ever owned. I opted for the 4x4 and living in upstate NY where we get a few feet of snow every snowfall, the Nitro handles great in the snow and can really bite into the deep stuff with no issues. I get a lot of compliments on my Nitro, from the color to the design, with people saying it looks tough. I feel extremely safe every time I drive it in bad weather. I can definitely see myself buying the same vehicle in the future as long as they continue keeping the Nitro rugged and aggressive. This vehicle is an SUV and it rides and handles like one. I absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I'm so glad to hear that you love your vehicle! It's great to know that you've never had any problems with it and that it looks so good that you get compliments on it. Plus, it's always a bonus when a vehicle performs well in the snow!
Delbert Franecki 2024-11-26
Vehicle year: 2009
I'm not enjoying this car at all. The performance is really poor and it's just not fun to drive. Unfortunately, I've already broken down three times and it's becoming quite frustrating.
Mekhi Bernier 2024-11-26
Vehicle year: 2007
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my new Nitro. When I purchased it on September 26, 2006, it only had 19 miles on it. I must say, it's been an absolute joy to drive! The mid-sized SUV handles like a dream, with great pickup and braking that make it feel like a much smaller vehicle. Everywhere I go, people can't help but stare at my Nitro. In fact, one guy even stuck his head in the window while I was still in the truck! As of today, I've driven 345 miles in 7 days. The only downside so far has been the gas mileage, which is averaging about 15.25 MPG, lower than the sticker's estimate of 17/23. I was hoping for at least 19. Nonetheless, I'm still thrilled with my purchase!
Fred Thompson 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2010
I understand your frustration with the car. It seems like the plastic interior is uncomfortable and the car has limited space for storage. Additionally, the gas mileage is not ideal and the car lacks acceleration. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Stuart Gleason 2024-11-09
Vehicle year: 2009
I received this vehicle as a Christmas gift in 2007 and I am grateful to have an honest and loyal car dealer. Unfortunately, the vehicle has a leak in the roof that becomes apparent during heavy rain. I have had to visit my dealer multiple times to address this issue. While this is a disappointing manufacturer's flaw, I appreciate the efforts of my dealer to help me resolve the issue. Based on my experience, I will not be purchasing another Dodge Nitro in the future.
Aric Emmerich 2024-10-12
Vehicle year: 2007
I experienced issues with the brakes sticking while driving, which caused the right rear wheel well to emit smoke during a 130-mile trip. Upon inspection, I found that the side wall of the tire was extremely hot and the rim was blistering hot. The parking brake, which was disabled at the time, was identified as the cause of the problem. The same issue occurred on the driver's side rear wheel before I took the Nitro to Chrysler Service, and the repairs cost over $600. Despite the mileage being only 17,700, Chrysler informed me that the brakes were not covered by warranty or recall, citing that brakes wear out through normal use. They did not take into account the potential danger of a fire.