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Are Dodge Nitros expensive to maintain?

The Dodge Nitro, a mid-size SUV produced from 2007 to 2012, is generally considered to have higher than average maintenance costs compared to other vehicles in its class. While the exact maintenance expenses can vary depending on factors like driving habits, mileage, and repair needs, the Nitro's design and components tend to contribute to its higher maintenance requirements.


Maintenance Costs of the Dodge Nitro


According to industry data, the average annual maintenance cost for a Dodge Nitro is around $650 to $800, which is higher than the $500 to $600 range for many other mid-size SUVs. Some of the key factors that contribute to the Nitro's higher maintenance costs include:



  • Engine and Transmission: The Nitro's V6 engine and automatic transmission can be more expensive to service and repair compared to simpler, four-cylinder setups found in some competitor models.

  • Suspension and Brakes: The Nitro's off-road-oriented suspension and larger brakes require more frequent maintenance and replacement of components like shocks, struts, and brake pads.

  • Electrical System: The Nitro's more complex electrical system, including features like the optional navigation system, can be costlier to diagnose and repair than basic electrical systems.li>
  • Fuel Economy: The Nitro's relatively poor fuel economy of around 16-18 mpg city and 21-23 mpg highway means owners will spend more on gas over the vehicle's lifetime.


It's important to note that proper maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate the Nitro's higher than average maintenance costs. Owners who stay on top of recommended service intervals and address issues promptly can help keep their Nitro running reliably and efficiently.

Are dodges expensive to repair?


Average Annual Dodge Maintenance Cost
Compared to the industry average of $652, Dodge vehicles are slightly less expensive to maintain. They're not as costly as luxury vehicles, which can cost upward of $850 for annual upkeep, nor are they as inexpensive as popular commuter brands, like Toyota and Hyundai.



Are dodges high maintenance?


The average annual repair cost for a Dodge is $634, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Dodge reliability include an average of 0.2 visits to a repair shop per year and a 15% probability of a repair being severe.



Are Dodge Nitros good on gas?


Fuel economy is not a strong point for the 2009 Dodge Nitro. On 2WD models, the 3.7-liter engine achieves 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined; the 4.0-liter V6 gets 16/21/18 mpg.



How long do Dodge Nitros last?


The Dodge Nitro has an average lifespan of 145,054 miles or about 10.3 years. The Nitro's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.



What is the common problem with Dodge?


Dodge vehicles, particularly the newer models, sometimes experience electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power windows, faulty dashboard lights, or problems with the infotainment system.



Do Dodge Nitros have transmission problems?


Many owners of 2007-2008 Nitros have reported that their SUVs would buck repeatedly when they step on the accelerator pedal. The transmission may also fail to go into reverse. In some cases, the affected vehicles may surge and trigger fault code P0741 (torque converter clutch performance).



How long are Nitros good for?


There is no official mention of an expiry date after opening. However, to be safe Drugs.com would still recommend discarding a bottle of nitroglycerin tablets no longer than three months after opening.



What year did Dodge have bad transmissions?


A: The Dodge RAM 1500 years to avoid are 2003, 2010-2013 (specifically models with the 5.7-liter V8 engine), 2014, 2015, and 2016. These model years have had various problems and recalls related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems.



Is a Dodge Nitro good on gas?


Nitro gets great gas mileage for an SUV (avg around 22mi/gallon combined city/hwy & I live in the mountains).



Why did the Dodge Nitro fail?


The owners' top complaints include numerous electrical issues, faulty TIPM, and various engine and powertrain problems. The major fault of the 2007 Nitro lies in its widespread electrical issues. And with an older model like this one, these electrical gremlins are only bound to worsen.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.