2012 Dodge Nitro

2012 Dodge Nitro

The 2012 Dodge Nitro is a midsize SUV offered with two engine options: a 3.7L V6 and a 4.0L V6. The 3.7L V6 comes standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 4.0L V6 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Nitro received mixed reviews upon its release. Some owners praised its roomy interior and powerful engines, while others criticized its poor fuel economy and lackluster handling.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement
  • Solution: Replace transmission or rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, hard shifting
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noise while turning, steering instability
  • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Collapse:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, electrical accessories malfunctioning
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, especially around wheel wells
  • Solution: Rust removal and repair
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Deployment Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbags fail to deploy in a crash
  • Solution: Replace airbag module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Campaign Number: 23V369000
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows fail to roll up or down, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Dodge Nitro has been plagued by several serious issues, including timing chain failure, transmission problems, and suspension failures. These issues can be costly to repair and may compromise the safety of the vehicle. However, it is important to note that not all Nitros have experienced these problems, and some owners have reported few significant issues.