2008 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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Common 2008 Dodge Nitro problems
The 2008 Dodge Nitro, a compact SUV that shared its platform with the Jeep Liberty, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most significant issues is related to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), a main power distribution panel responsible for sending electricity to all of the vehicle’s systems. Although the NHTSA did not issue a recall for this problem, many owners have reported sudden acceleration and engine stalling, which could lead to severe accidents.
Transmission problems are also common in the 2008 Dodge Nitro. Many owners have reported a shuddering coming from their automatic transmission at speeds above 35 mph, which can make owning this compact SUV an expensive proposition. Replacing the torque converter is often the most common repair for these transmission issues. Some owners have also experienced a condition where the gearbox remains in limp mode, with only third gear available. A software update to the transmission control module may be needed to fix this issue.
The 2008 Dodge Nitro also had several recalls, including a recall for a dangerous airbag cover design that could become a projectile during deployment, premature driveshaft failure, and faulty nuts securing the Dodge emblem to the center of the steering wheel, which could work their way loose and become dangerous projectiles when the airbag deploys.
In summary, the 2008 Dodge Nitro has several common problems, including electrical faults related to the TIPM, transmission issues, and recalls for airbag cover design and driveshaft failure. These problems can make owning this compact SUV an expensive proposition, with many owners reporting significant repair costs.
What is the problem with the 2008 Dodge Nitro?
Multiple Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are bound to come up when discussing the most common 2007 and 2008 Dodge Nitro problems. Many owners of these model years have complained about having an illuminated battery light, a horn that would blow randomly, and wiper systems that would automatically shoot water.
Is the Dodge Nitro a reliable car?
The average rating is a 3.3 out of 5 stars. The Dodge Nitro Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 19th out of 32 for all car brands.
Are there any recalls on a 2008 Dodge Nitro?
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.
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.
Is the Dodge Nitro a reliable car?
The Dodge Nitro received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from Repairpal. The most common Dodge Nitro issues include the engine not starting, stalling, and electrical issues in.
How long do Dodge Nitro engines 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.
Are there any recalls on a 2008 Dodge Nitro?
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.
Are Dodge Nitros good on gas?
On 2WD models, the 3.7-liter engine achieves 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined; the 4.0-liter V6 gets 16/21/18 mpg.
2008 Dodge Nitro car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Nitro problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Dodge Nitro vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Dodge Nitro
The NHTSA has received 388 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Dodge Nitro. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Dodge Nitro vehicles.
STEERING,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-05
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- VIN: 1D8GU58K28W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TIPM connectors melted. Ground wires melted.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-02
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1D8GU58658W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Was driving tipm caught fire Now insurance telling me moisture and corrosion
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-22
- VIN: 1D8GU58KX8W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that the horn and the rear and front windshield wipers were inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that her neighbor disconnected and reconnected the battery and the failure was corrected. The vehicle was not diagnosed. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was 168,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-15
- VIN: 1D8GT28K28W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that while entering the vehicle the horn inadvertently started blowing and windshield wipers activated independently. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed with an unknown electrical wiring failure. The dealer replaced the battery cables; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 57,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-28
- VIN: 1D8GU58638W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the windows, lights, and radio would independently turn off, or on. The contact stated that occasionally while driving, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact was able to coast off the road safely. The contact stated that she then got out the vehicle to look under the hood to tap the TIPM box, which allowed her to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that she had contacted the dealer to schedule an appointment. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the there was no recall on the VIN for the failure. The failure mileage was 85,648.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-07
- VIN: 1D8GU58K98W
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have received multiple recall notices (recall W09/NHTSA 20V-396) since the recall was issued on my vehicle 20 months ago however I have been unable to get the recall completed because Dodge will not provide the parts needed to complete the repair. The notices all say that the part is available yet when my dealership tries to get the part, they are told it is out of stock with no eta as to when it will be available. This is NOT a timely manner and Dodge needs to provide the part now.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-08
- VIN: 1D8GU28K28W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas keeps overflowing every time I pump gas into no matter what pump or gas station I am using.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-20
- VIN: 1D8GU58698W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The TIPM in these vehicles are faulty and nothing is being done about it by Dodge. There are hundreds of complains across several forums and every time Dodge is contacted about the issue they use the no recall excuse. I have a Nitro myself and it has multiple electrical issues for no reason other than poor manufacturing. The TIPM is the issue and it's not just my Nitro having this problem. My vehicle has accelerated without my assistance, it's had braking issues when there should be no issue. Components that need my action to work have activated on their own, such as... horn, wiper, wiper fluid, accelerator, etc... The wiring in these vehicles are faulty and it needs to be fixed by the manufacturer at their expense. It's time they step up a make it right by the consumer.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-01
- VIN: 1D8GU28K08W
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated while attempting to refuel the vehicle, the fuel was spilling from the vehicle onto the ground. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-02
- VIN: 1D8GT58KX8W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: IT STARTED WITH ALL DASH LIGHTS COMING ON SAYING IT HAD ISSUES AND THEN JUST STOPPED DEAD IN ROAD. I HAD TPIM PUT IN, THEN ALTERNATOR , AND THEN NEW BATTERY. WAS FINE AND THEN HEAD LIGHTS STOPPED COMING ON . NEXT, IT STARTING WITH HORN, AND EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN COMING ON AND NOT STOPPING. TOOK TO SHOP AND THEY THOUGHT THEY FOUND IT, AND DROVE FOR A DAY AND AS SOON AS I TURNED ON HEADLIGHTS IT STALLED. IN MOTION ON A STREET DRIVING.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-11
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1D8GT28K78W
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: ON 2/11/2021 ME AN MY MOM WAS HEAD TO DOCTOR AT 445AM AND IT WAS JUST RAINING COLD AND WE HIT A PATCH OF ICE GOING 20 MILES AND HOUR AND I LOST CONTROL AND WE WENT ROLLING 3 TIMES AND AIR. BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT RESTRIORS DIDNT RESTRICT AS WE WAS ROLLING SOME TIME IN PROCESS MY HEAD HIT WINDSHIELD AND GOT KNOCKED OUT IT WAS ON A HWY MOVING THEIR WAS NO ONE ON THE ROAD BUT US.. IT WOUNT LET ME UP LOAD MY PICTURES I HAVE BUT WILL BE GLADE TO MAIL THEM TO U WAITING ON POLICE REPORT HE PUT WRONG INFORMATION ABOUT ME ON FOR SO IT NEEDTO BE FIXED.*DT
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-06
- VIN: 1D8GT28K38W
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR A RECALL. THE RECALL WAS FOR REPLACING THE EMBLEM ON THE STEERING WHEEL. THE EMBLEM WAS REMOVED BUT THE REPLACEMENT COVER WAS NOT INSTALLED. ALSO THE RECALL FOR THE DRIVE SHAFT WAS NOT DONE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-22
- VIN: 1D8GT58K88W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE NITRO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS UNLOCKED, THE ALARM, WINDSHIELD WIPERS, AND HORN ENGAGED. THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER CAROLINA CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM (1001 HALSTEAD BLVD, ELIZABETH CITY, NC 27909, (252) 391-9609) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 147,668.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- VIN: 1D8GU28K88W
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE NITRO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK WOULD OVERFLOW WITHOUT WARNING WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REFUEL VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED SINCE OWNING THE VEHICLE IN 2009. THE CONTACT RECENTLY TOOK THE VEHICLE TO CARSON DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (3059 S CARSON ST, CARSON CITY, NV 89701) WHERE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT SHE HAD TO PAY A DIAGNOSTIC FEE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. SHE DECLINED TO PAY THE DIAGNOSTIC FEE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 27,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1D8GT28K48W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING TO WORK AND NOTICED SMOKE. OPENED HOOD AND FLAMES WERE COMING OUT OF FUSE BOX. CLOSED HOOD AND GRABBED PURSE AND PHONE. LADY WHO PULLED OVER BEHIND ME AND PEOPLE INSIDE OFFICE CALLED FIRE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE ENGINE COMPLETELY INVOLVED. TOOK A BIT FOR FIRE DEPT. TO GAIN CONTROL AND EXTINGUISH. I DID RESEARCH AND SAW SEVERAL SIMILAR COMPLAINTS RE FUSE BOX. INSURANCE ADJUSTER TO EXAMINE 12/7/2020*DT THE CONSUMER PROVIDED PHOTOS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-23
- VIN: 1D8GU58K88W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TIPM MALFUNCTIONS..VEHICLE VIBRATED AND SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING..STARTER CRANKED CONTINUOUSLY WITHOUT TURNING ENGINE OVER. CONTINUOUSLY RAN FUEL PUMP WHICH CAUSED NEED FOR REPLACING,AND A NEW BATTERY AS WELL. AFTER REPLACING FUEL PUMP,AND BATTERY,THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AGAIN..WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE,AGAIN WILL NOT START. STARTER KEEPS RUNNING UNLESS YOU TURN THE KEY TO THE "OFF POSITION"
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-26
- VIN: 1D8GU28K48W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WAS DRIVING IT AN THE WHOLE DASH LIGHTS UP RANDOM CODES NOW WON'T START
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-05
- VIN: 1D8GU58638W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 3 DIFFERENT TIMES I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BATTERY IN MY NITRO DUE TO THE STEREO. THE RADIO IS NOT POWERING DOWN PROPERLY AND KEEPING THE COMMUNICATION BUS AWAKE CAUSING PARASITIC BATTERY DRAW. I HAVE A MYGIG HEAD UNIT WITH NAVIGATION AND SIRIUS SATELLITE DVD PLAYER. AT TIME THE THE NITRO WILL LOCK ME IN OR OUT DUE TO THE STEREO NOT POWERING OFF PROPERLY DUE TO THIS ISSUE YOU ALSO CAN NOT GET SATELLITE SERVICE TO WORK. DODGE NEEDS TO RECALL THIS ISSUE AS WE DID NOT ASK FOR THE ISSUE. ALSO WHEN FILLING UP WITH FUEL IT DOES NOT STOP ON IT IS OWN LIKE OTHER CARS AND TRUCKS, IT SPITS FUEL BACK OUT AT YOU AND SPILLS EVERYWHERE ON YOU THE CAR AND GROUND. THE BATTERY PROBLEM HAPPENS WHEN IT IS TURNED OFF WITH NO KEY IN THE IGNITION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-11
- VIN: 1D8GU28K38W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TWO ISSUES. IT STALLS GOING AT SPEED ON HIGHWAY AND IT ALSO HAD THE DASHBOARD LIGHT UP LIKE AN XMAS TREE WITH EVERYTHING GOING ON AND THEN THE CAR WILL NOT START. EVERYTHING HAS POWER WHEN THIS HAPPENS BUT THE TRUCK WILL NOT START AT ALL. WHEN YOU EXIT THE VEHICLE, THE TRUCK STILL ACTS LIKE THE LIGHTS ARE ON AND THE KEY IS IGNITION AS IT DINGS AS A WARNING. I HAVE HAD THE POWER MODULE REPLACED TWICE AND THE SAME THING HAPPENS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
- VIN: 1D8GT58608W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: THE TIPM ON THIS NITRO IS CAUSING SAFETY ISSUES. ITS STALLED GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. IT CRANKS BUT DOESN'T START. THE WIPERS WILL NOT TURN OFF. IT THROWS UP STRANGE ERROR CODES THEN THEY JUST GO OFF. MY STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS AND CRUISE CONTROL WORKS WHEN THEY FEEL LIKE IT. SOME ISSUES HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING , BUT SOME HAPPEN WHEN STATIONARY. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-19
- VIN: 1D8GU28K08W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN REFUELING, GASOLINE SPLASHES FORCEFULLY OUT OF THE FILLER NECK EVERY SINGLE TIME, NO MATTER HOW CAREFULLY OR SLOWLY THE VEHICLE IS FUELED. THE QUANTITY EJECTED IS SUFFICIENT TO CREATE A SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE LEARNED TO STAND FAR TO THE SIDE TO AVOID BEING SOAKED WITH GASOLINE.
2008 Dodge Nitro recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2008 Dodge Nitro.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler Group LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro 4X2 vehicles manufactured March 21, 2006, through March 1, 2008; and 2008 Jeep Liberty 4X2 vehicles manufactured February 15, 2007, through March 1, 2008. The transfer case heat shield may drop down and rub on the drive shaft, weakening it and potentially causing the drive shaft to break.
- Consequence: If the drive shaft breaks, a section of it can strike the transfer case tunnel with enough force that the airbag computer will believe the vehicle is in a crash and thus deploy the airbags. Additionally, the drive shaft failure will result in a loss of motive power. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will add a bracket to support the rear of the heat shield, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed to owners on May 29, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N10.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER LLC
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 3,663 MY 2007-2008 DODGE NITRO AND MY 2008 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. THE PARK BRAKE LEVER CLUTCH DRUM MAY DISTORT AND REDUCE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PARK BRAKE SYSTEM.
- Consequence: THIS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE INADVERTENTLY AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PARK BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Negative 2008 Dodge Nitro car reviews
Positive 2008 Dodge Nitro car reviews
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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!
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I've been driving my Nitro for 2 years now, putting on roughly 35,000 km each year, and I absolutely love it! Although my husband, who is 6'2, thinks there isn't enough space for him, I personally haven't had any issues. It's a very sporty and fun SUV to drive, and it's also easy to park and can haul lots with the fold down seats. While the mileage could be better, it's an SUV after all, so they're all pretty much the same, right? I haven't had many problems at all, except for the tire pressure gauge being a bit touchy. Overall, it's been a great vehicle for hauling my two busy kids around, even on the gravel roads of rural Alberta.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your Nitro! It's great to hear that it handles well and is fuel-efficient, and that the seats are comfortable. It's wonderful that you have had such a positive experience with it. It's also great to hear that your friend is considering a Nitro as a family car and feels safe in yours. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Hey there! When it comes to buying a car, it's important to do your research and get to know everything you can about the car you're interested in and the dealership you're buying from. That way, you can make the best decision possible. Let me know if you have any questions!
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It sounds like you and your wife have been enjoying the car! It's great to hear that you both find it enjoyable to drive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Dodge Nitro problems:
2008 Dodge Nitro Problems and Complaints - 28 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Dodge Nitro? Our list of 28 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Dodge Nitro.
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Other years of Dodge Nitro
Are you having problems with your 2008 Dodge Nitro?
Tillman Torp 2025-01-09
Hi there! This is the first vehicle I ever bought brand new and I've had it for three years now. It's been great, but recently I've been having some trouble with it stalling when idling. I've taken it back to the dealership for service, but they haven't been able to reproduce the problem. It only has 70k on it. Do you have any suggestions?
Hans Hettinger 2024-10-07
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my '08 Nitro. When I was looking for a new car, I was drawn to the Nitro because it had many of the features that my previous car had as standard. Unfortunately, my previous car was hit in the rear at 55mph and the damage was too great to repair. When I purchased my Nitro from the dealer, it already had 52 miles on it and was considered used. While I have had some issues with the tire sensor going off frequently, indicating that the tires are not equal pressure (I think it might be defective), I have found that the handling took a while to get used to since my Mazda SUV was far superior in terms of handling, braking, and turning. Overall, I think the Nitro is a decent vehicle, but it might be better suited for Jeep or Dodge enthusiasts. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts!
Morris Bradtke 2024-08-27
My Nitro has experienced multiple issues since purchase. The driver's side door lock malfunctioned just 2 months after purchase. Despite the truck being locked and unlocked with the remote, the gas tank began spewing gas when filled. The dealer acknowledged this as a defect, but has refused to offer me a loaner despite the safety concerns. The fuel filler neck and radio require replacement, despite the truck being only 16 months old. In total, the truck has spent 5-6 days in service due to these issues. As a result, I cannot recommend this vehicle.
Lew Upton 2024-06-22
I would suggest considering other options before purchasing a used Dodge Nitro. In my personal experience, I have had to spend a lot of money on repairs and maintenance. Therefore, I cannot recommend a Dodge Nitro to anyone. Thank you for considering my advice.
Francesco Tromp 2024-03-25
I strongly advise against purchasing a Nitro. Despite regular maintenance, my brand new Nitro has caused me nothing but problems. In the past year alone, I have taken it to the dealership eight times. Even when driving with the engine turned off, or coming to a stop and then pressing the gas to go, the engine revs and then slams into gear. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this car to anyone.