2012 Dodge Attitude
Introduction
The 2012 Dodge Attitude is a compact sedan that was offered with two engine and transmission options: a 1.6L inline-4 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 2.4L inline-4 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 1.6L engine produces 110 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4L engine produces 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. The Attitude is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior, but it has also been plagued by various issues.
Engine
1.6L Inline-4
- Intake Valve Deposits: Carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves, causing engine misfires and rough idling. Solution: Clean the intake valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to incorrect timing and engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
- Oil Pan Gasket Leak: The oil pan gasket can fail, causing an oil leak. Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
2.4L Inline-4
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak and engine performance issues. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
- Cooling Fan Motor Failure: The cooling fan motor can fail, leading to overheating. Solution: Replace the cooling fan motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
- Thermostat Failure: The thermostat can fail, causing overheating or undercooling. Solution: Replace the thermostat. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Solenoid Failure: The transmission solenoids can fail, causing transmission shifting problems and slipping. Solution: Replace the failed solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail, causing transmission shuddering and slipping. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
6-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Fluid Leak: The transmission fluid lines or seals can develop leaks, causing fluid loss and transmission damage. Solution: Repair the leak and replace the lost fluid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Valve Body Failure: The valve body can fail, causing transmission shifting problems. Solution: Replace the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
Suspension
- Strut Failure: The front struts can fail prematurely, causing a rough ride and poor handling. Solution: Replace the failed struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
- Sway Bar End Link Failure: The sway bar end links can fail, causing a clunking noise and poor handling. Solution: Replace the failed end links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
Electrical
- Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely, leaving drivers stranded. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, preventing the windows from operating. Solution: Replace the failed motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Exterior
- Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to become inoperable. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
- Sunroof Seal Failure: The sunroof seal can fail, causing water leaks into the interior. Solution: Replace the sunroof seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
Interior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: The door lock actuators can fail, causing difficulty locking or unlocking the doors. Solution: Replace the failed actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
- Dashboard Trim Noise: The dashboard trim pieces can rattle and make noise. Solution: Secure the loose trim pieces. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
Summary
The 2012 Dodge Attitude is a budget-friendly vehicle that offers good fuel economy and a spacious interior. However, it has been plagued by numerous issues that affect the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but some, such as the intake valve deposits and timing chain tensioner failure, can be particularly costly to repair.