2006 Dodge Attitude

2006 Dodge Attitude

Overview

The 2006 Dodge Attitude, a subcompact car, offered a blend of affordability and practicality. While generally considered a decent option for its segment, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. We will examine the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior components to give a comprehensive overview of its performance.

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Engine

1.6L 4-Cylinder

Ignition Coil Failure

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light, poor acceleration.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coil(s).
• Cost: $150 - $300

Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)

• Symptoms: Visible oil around the top of the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, engine revving without acceleration, harsh shifting.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, or potential rebuild/replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $2500+

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning light, inability to shift gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $400 - $800

5-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch replacement (kit includes pressure plate, clutch disc, release bearing).
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Suspension

Standard Suspension

Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $450

Electrical

General Electrical System

Faulty Window Regulators

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Instrument Cluster Issues

• Symptoms: Flickering gauges, non-functional indicators, dim or dead display.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

Headlight Lens Hazing/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, unsightly appearance.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

Interior Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only on highest setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor and/or resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $350

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Summary Verdict

The 2006 Dodge Attitude, while an economical choice, presents a few common areas of concern that owners should be aware of. The 1.6L engine can experience ignition coil issues and oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. Automatic transmissions may develop slipping problems or TCM failures, while manual transmissions are susceptible to clutch wear. Suspension components like ball joints and strut mounts can wear out, leading to noise and handling issues. Electrical problems, particularly with window regulators and instrument clusters, are also reported. Exteriorly, headlight hazing is common. Interiorly, the HVAC blower motor is a frequent point of failure. Despite these potential issues, many owners find the Attitude to be a reliable vehicle when these common problems are addressed proactively.