2016 Dodge Dart
2016 Dodge Dart
Overview
The 2016 Dodge Dart, while offering a sporty aesthetic and engaging driving dynamics for its class, presented a mixed bag in terms of long-term reliability. It was available with several powertrain options, each with its own set of potential concerns. Owners reported varying experiences, with some units proving dependable while others encountered more frequent issues, particularly related to the powertrain and certain electronic components. The compact sedan aimed to compete with established players but struggled to match their overall dependability scores, which is a crucial factor for many car buyers. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance.
Engine
1.4L Turbocharged I4
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, check engine light.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $700
2.0L Tigershark I4
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Frequent need to top up oil, blue smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Engine internal repairs or replacement (depending on severity).
- Cost: $1,500 - $4,000+
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Overheating, visible coolant puddles, sweet smell.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of hoses, radiator, or water pump.
- Cost: $400 - $1,000
2.4L Tigershark I4
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Frequent need to top up oil, blue smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Engine internal repairs or replacement (depending on severity).
- Cost: $1,500 - $4,000+
Timing Chain Issues
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, check engine light.
- Solution: Timing chain and tensioner replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500
6-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $300 - $2,500+
Transmission Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to shift gears, loud noises, vehicle not moving.
- Solution: Transmission replacement.
- Cost: $2,500 - $5,000+
6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DDCT)
Shuddering/Jerking
- Symptoms: Hesitation or rough engagement during acceleration, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Software updates, clutch pack replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $2,000
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning lights, loss of gear selection.
- Solution: TCM replacement.
- Cost: $600 - $1,200
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Struts/Shocks
- Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, clunking noises over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
- Cost: $500 - $1,000
Sway Bar Links
- Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when turning or going over uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Replacement of sway bar links.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Electrical
General Electrical System
Uconnect System Glitches
- Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, freezing.
- Solution: Software updates, system reset, or head unit replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $800
Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, battery warning light.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty module or battery.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Faulty Sensors
- Symptoms: Check engine light, ABS light, traction control light, poor engine performance.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of specific faulty sensor (e.g., O2 sensor, ABS sensor).
- Cost: $200 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Dodge Dart exhibits a reliability profile that is somewhat inconsistent, with particular attention needed for its powertrain options. The turbocharged 1.4L engine can be prone to turbocharger issues and oil leaks, while the larger Tigershark engines have reported oil consumption and coolant leak concerns. Transmissions, especially the dual-clutch automatic, have seen complaints of shuddering and control module failures. Electrical gremlins, such as Uconnect system glitches and battery drain, are also noted. While suspension components can wear, they are generally less problematic than the powertrain and electrical systems. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in possible repair costs when considering a used 2016 Dart.