Are Dodge Avengers expensive to fix?

In general, Dodge Avengers are not inherently more expensive to repair than other mid‑size sedans from their era. Costs vary widely based on the year, engine, mileage, and how well the car has been maintained.

What drives repair costs

Repair costs for the Avenger depend on several factors, including engine type, age and mileage, the availability of replacement parts, local labor rates, and whether you use a dealership or an independent shop. Because the model is no longer in production, some parts can be harder to source, which can affect price and turnaround time.

Engine options and their impact on repair costs

Four-cylinder versus V6

The Avenger was offered with more than one engine during its run. Four‑cylinder versions generally cost less to repair for routine maintenance and parts, while V6 variants tend to have higher part costs and longer labor times for major repairs. The V6 may also involve more frequent maintenance on cooling and accessory components. Overall, the choice of engine is a primary factor in the total cost of ownership when repairs are needed.

Common repair costs and maintenance expectations

Routine maintenance and smaller repairs are typically affordable if kept up to date, but larger, less frequent repairs can be pricey—especially on an older car with higher mileage. The overall cost picture for the Avenger resembles that of other mid‑size sedans from the same period, with variability based on how well the vehicle has been maintained.

Typical maintenance tasks and their cost considerations:

• Oil changes, filter replacements, and regular fluid checks, which are essential to prevent more serious issues and are relatively inexpensive at independent shops.


• Brake service (pads and rotors) which can range widely based on rotor replacement and whether you need a full rotor resurfacing.


• Tire replacements and wheel alignment as wear from daily driving accumulates.


• Battery replacements and electrical component checks, which can vary with climate and vehicle usage.


• Transmission and engine work, which can be substantial if problems are present; these costs are highly dependent on the exact failure and whether the issue is repairable or requires replacement components.

In summary, routine maintenance costs are typically manageable, while major repairs depend heavily on the engine, transmission, and the car’s service history. For a used Avenger, a well-documented example with a solid maintenance record will generally be cheaper to keep running than a neglected one.

Recall and reliability notes

Before purchasing or continuing to own an Avenger, check for open recalls and service bulletins. Recalls can involve critical safety components or emissions systems and are typically repaired at no cost by a dealer. Reliability can vary by model year and maintenance history, so a pre‑purchase inspection and a comprehensive service history review are valuable steps.

Recall checks and service history review help set expectations for potential repair costs and timing of major maintenance. If you’re evaluating a used Avenger, consider having a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection that focuses on the engine, transmission, cooling system, suspension, and electrical wiring.

How to minimize repair costs

Smart choices can keep ownership affordable even as the car ages. Consider the following strategies:

• Keep up with routine maintenance to prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs.


• Shop around for quotes from independent shops, which often offer lower labor rates than dealerships.


• Source reputable aftermarket or remanufactured parts when appropriate to save on costs without sacrificing reliability.


• Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection when buying a used Avenger to catch potential expensive problems early.


• Consider an extended warranty or service contract for major components if you plan to keep the car long-term and the price is reasonable for your budget.

Summary

The Dodge Avenger isn’t inherently prohibitively expensive to fix, but costs hinge on the specific model, engine, and condition. Four‑cylinder versions typically offer lower maintenance costs, while V6 models can incur higher parts and labor charges for major repairs. Because the car is out of production, parts availability can vary by region, which may influence price and turnaround times. With diligent maintenance, careful shopping for parts and labor, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, ownership costs can be kept reasonable for a used mid‑size sedan from this era.

What is the common problem of Dodge Avenger?

Common Dodge Avenger problems include issues with the automatic transmission, engine stalling, and the engine not starting. Other frequent complaints involve a faulty alternator, electrical problems from a defective TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), and the heater not working correctly. Problems can also occur with the independent rear suspension, brakes, and cabin components like the AC.
 
This video explains common problems with the Dodge Avenger and how they can be diagnosed: 56sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Nov 3, 2024
Engine and starting problems

• Engine stalling and not starting: This can be caused by a failed alternator, faulty starter, a dead battery, or issues with the engine control module (ECM). 
• Engine overheating: A faulty thermostat, radiator fan, or coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat. 
• Engine failure: In some cases, the engine may fail due to a faulty PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
• Misfires: Worn spark plug tube seals can cause misfires, poor fuel economy, and rough running. 

Transmission issues

• Erratic shifting: The automatic transmission may have problems with rough or erratic shifting. 
• Stuck in gear: The transmission can get stuck in a lower gear. 
• Delayed engagement: Delayed shifting, especially between park, drive, and reverse, can occur due to internal component wear or control system issues. 

Electrical and other systems

• Faulty TIPM: A defective TIPM is a known cause of various electrical problems, such as the engine not starting or stalling, dimming lights, and the battery light coming on.
• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, leading to dimming lights, slow cranking, and a dead battery.
• Electrical issues: Other electrical problems may include the radio and remote keyless entry not working correctly.
• Knocking AC compressor: Owners sometimes report a knocking noise coming from the AC compressor.
• Wet carpet: A clogged evaporator drain can lead to wet carpets inside the car. 

Suspension and brakes 

• Faulty rear suspension: The independent rear suspension, with its multiple links and bushings, is prone to failure. It is recommended to inspect and replace these components if necessary. 
• Squeaking brakes: Squealing brakes are a common complaint reported by owners. 

Interior and body

• Heater failure: The heater core is a weak point and can plug up, resulting in heat only on one side of the car.
• Interior wear: The plastic trim inside the cabin may break, and the edges of seats can show wear.
• Chrome peeling: The chrome on interior door handles can peel, becoming a potential hazard if the edges are sharp. 

This video discusses the rear suspension and heater problems in the Dodge Avenger: 58sAutoMotivateYouTube · Sep 17, 2020

How reliable is a Dodge Avenger?

The reliability of a Dodge Avenger varies, with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine generally considered more reliable than the V6, especially with consistent maintenance. However, the model is prone to several common issues, including premature transmission failure (more common in V6 models), failing climate control blend door actuators, and potential issues with rust and warped brakes. Overall, owners report a mix of positive and negative experiences, and its reliability is considered average, with its value being its strongest point. 
This video explains common issues and reliability concerns of the Dodge Avenger: 51sAutoMotivateYouTube · Sep 17, 2020
Common issues and potential problems 
This video discusses the reliability of the four-cylinder engine in the Dodge Avenger: 1mOCG-Olde Carr GuyYouTube · Mar 28, 2023

• Transmissions: Both four-cylinder and V6 models can have premature transmission failure, with the V6 models being more frequently affected. Signs include slipping, jerking, or loud clunky noises when shifting. 
• Climate control: Blend door actuators are a common failure point, often resulting in a loud clicking noise and poor heating or cooling performance. The issue can be expensive to repair due to the labor-intensive nature of accessing the parts behind the dashboard. 
• Engine: While the 2.4L engine is often seen as reliable, it's susceptible to problems like leaking plastic water outlets, failing alternator clutches, and fatigued engine mounts. 
• Brakes: The brakes tend to warp and wear out more quickly than on other vehicles. 
• Rust: Rusting of the subframes can become a serious problem, sometimes making the car undrivable. 
• Paint: The paint can be prone to fading and blistering. 
• Electrical: Some owners report intermittent issues with the check engine light, which can sometimes be traced to a loose gas cap, and no-start conditions due to corroded terminals. 

Tips for buyers

• Check the engine: If considering the 2.4L, ensure the plastic water outlet and alternator are in good condition. 
• Inspect the transmission: Look for signs of slipping or jerking, especially if the car has higher mileage. 
• Listen for clicking: A loud clicking from the dashboard can indicate a failed blend door actuator. 
• Look for rust: Carefully inspect the subframes for signs of rust, particularly if you live in a region with heavy road salt use. 
• Check for recalls: Be aware of recalls, especially concerning seat belts and electrical issues. 

How long do Dodge Avengers usually last?

According to carparts.com, a Dodge Avenger will last around 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance.

Is it expensive to fix a Dodge Avenger?

The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Dodge Avenger ranges from $105 to $5034, with an average of $333.