Do Dodge Darts last long?

Yes. With regular maintenance and careful driving, a Dodge Dart can reach and surpass the 150,000-mile milestone, and many owners report 200,000 miles or more. Longevity, however, depends on maintenance history, model year, and how the car has been cared for over time.

Understanding how long a Dart lasts requires looking at what went into its design, how it was built, and how owners have treated them since new. The model years span 2013 to 2016, during which durability varied and reliability guidance evolved with recalls, software updates, and routine service. This article surveys the factors that influence longevity, notes common endurance-related concerns, and offers practical tips for extending the life of an aging Dart.

Longevity factors: what extends or shortens a Dart’s life

Before listing the key factors, it’s important to frame how a vehicle’s lifespan is shaped: consistent maintenance, careful driving, and timely repairs can significantly alter how many miles a Dart can add before major components require replacement.

• Maintenance history and adherence to service intervals, including oil changes, fluids, and filter replacements.


• Driving conditions and usage patterns, such as frequent short trips vs. long highway drives and aggressive acceleration.


• Engine and transmission combination, with attention to any software updates or recalls that address reliability concerns.


• Climate exposure, road salt in winter, and rust prevention/repair, which can affect body and brake components.


• Repair history and availability of replacement parts as the car ages, since the Dart is no longer in production.

In short, a well-maintained Dart worn by cautious driving tends to endure longer than one with spotty maintenance or severe use, especially given its aging design and separate recalls that can affect long-term reliability.

Reliability snapshot by year and common wear points

Owner experiences and manufacturer updates show that reliability can vary across the 2013–2016 Dart run. Some model years benefited from updates and recalls, while others faced persistent issues that could affect long-term durability. Prospective buyers or owners should review maintenance records, check for open recalls, and consider a pre-purchase inspection to gauge the car’s current condition and potential longevity.

• Common wear points include engine maintenance needs, transmission behavior, electrical/electronics stability, and suspension components that wear with age.


• Recalls and software updates during the production run addressed several safety and reliability concerns, highlighting the importance of VIN-specific recall checks and dealership service history.

Overall, while the Dart is not the most recently engineered compact sedan on the market, diligent maintenance and informed ownership can help maximize its usable life. As with many older cars, the key is early attention to developing issues and timely repairs.

Maintenance practices that help maximize life

To push a Dodge Dart toward higher mileage, prioritize a proactive maintenance routine and address issues before they become costly problems. The following practices are widely recommended by technicians and experienced owners.

• Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, using the correct fluids, filters, and replacement intervals.


• Address warning lights, unusual noises, leaks, or performance changes promptly with a qualified mechanic.


• Keep the cooling system, oil system, and transmission (if applicable) in good condition, and perform any required service or updates.


• Maintain tires, brakes, steering, and suspension to prevent uneven wear and alignment-related stresses.


• Store and drive the car in a way that reduces stress on the engine and transmission, avoiding excessive heat and high-rpm use when not needed.

Effective maintenance and cautious driving are the best predictors of long-term durability for a Dodge Dart, especially as the vehicle ages beyond its original warranty period.

Bottom line for potential buyers and current owners

For buyers, a careful pre-purchase inspection and a review of service records are essential given the Dart’s age and mixed reliability narrative. For current owners, sticking to a disciplined maintenance plan, tackling issues early, and staying up-to-date on recalls can improve the odds of a longer, trouble-free life. While the Dart is no longer in production, evidence from owner experiences suggests that, with proper care, it can continue to run well into the second decade of its life for those who prioritize maintenance and sensible use.

Summary

Do Dodge Darts last long? They can, with proper care. Most Darts from the 2013–2016 era that receive regular maintenance, timely repairs, and careful driving can reach high mileage—often 150,000 miles or more, with some crossing 200,000 miles. Longevity varies by year, maintenance history, and how the car has been used. Prospective buyers should verify maintenance records and recall status, while current owners should prioritize preventive maintenance to maximize the Dart’s lifespan.

What years of Dodge Dart to avoid?

The years to most avoid are 2013 and 2014 Dodge Darts, with the 2013 model year being the worst due to widespread issues with the engine, transmission, and various other components. While later models (2015-2016) generally saw fewer problems, they still fall under the umbrella of the 5th generation (2013-2016) that experienced numerous recalls and complaints, so they should also be approached with caution. 
Years to most avoid

• 2013: This model year is notorious for the most issues. Problems include: 
  • Engine troubles (often around 40,000 miles). 
  • Transmission problems with both the six-speed automatic and manual transmissions. 
  • Brake issues, including a recall for faulty rear calipers. 
  • Electrical problems, such as sudden battery failure and steering/braking glitches. 
  • Interior component failures, like broken sun visors. 
• 2014: While slightly better than the 2013, many of the same problems persisted, including those with the engine and transmission. 

Other years to be cautious of

• 2015 and 2016: These models had fewer issues than the earlier years and sales were better, but they are still part of the 5th generation that had a reputation for problems and multiple recalls.
  • Owners reported issues like excessive oil consumption, electrical problems, and certain transmission issues.
  • A large recall in 2019 covered the 2013-2016 automatic transmission models due to a defective part that could cause the vehicle to roll away. 

What to look for if you still want a Dart

• Manual transmission: Some owners report fewer problems with manual transmission models, especially if they are the 2.4L engine.
• 2.4L engine: The 2.4L engine is less likely to have issues than the 1.4L turbo or the 2.0L engine.
• Avoid the 2.0L with CVT: Avoid 2.0L models with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), as this combination is reported to be particularly problematic. 

Are Dodge Dart cars reliable?

The Dodge Dart has a mixed reliability record, with a 4.0 out of 5.0 overall reliability rating from RepairPal, but with common issues reported by owners, particularly with the transmission and engine. Specific problems frequently mentioned include the 2013 model's issues, problems with certain engine variants, transmission problems (both automatic and manual), and various electrical and suspension issues. 
This video discusses the pros, cons, and common issues of the Dodge Dart: 49sUsed Car GuideYouTube · Oct 30, 2024
Overall reliability

• The Dodge Dart is ranked 28th out of 36 compact cars for reliability by RepairPal. 
• The average annual repair cost is around $597$ 597$597, which is considered average. 
• Major issues are not as frequent as with some other vehicles, but specific model years and components have known weaknesses. 

Common problems and concerns

• Engine: Some engine variants have high oil consumption, leading to potential engine failure. Engine performance issues like rough idling and stalling have also been reported. 
• Transmission: Both automatic and manual transmissions have had issues. The 2013 model, in particular, had complaints about its six-speed automatic transmission and a class-action lawsuit was filed for manual transmission models from 2013–2015. 
• Electrical and HVAC: Problems with the infotainment system, climate control (AC/heat switch), and other electrical components have been reported. 
• Suspension: Some model years have reported issues with suspension mounts and bushings degrading relatively quickly, leading to a rough ride and steering problems. 

This video talks about the issues found in Dodge Darts from 2013-2016: 59sAlphaSharkYouTube · Nov 15, 2022
What to consider if buying

• Maintenance is key: Keeping up with regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate potential problems and extend the vehicle's life. 
• Be wary of certain model years: The 2013 model year is often cited as having the most issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. 
• Inspect before buying: Thoroughly check the vehicle for any signs of the common issues listed above, especially if buying a used model.

Are Dodge Darts expensive to fix?

The annual maintenance cost of a Dodge Dart is $597. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.

How long do darts usually last?

A set of darts can last for several years for casual players, but the flights and shafts will need more frequent replacement (every few months) for regular players. The barrels themselves can last for years, though some professional players may replace them more frequently depending on how quickly the grip erodes. The lifespan of your darts depends on material quality, frequency of use, and maintenance, so replacing parts like flights and shafts when they get worn will extend the life of the entire set. 
Casual players

• Lifespan: A good set can last for several years with occasional use and proper maintenance. 
• Parts: You will likely only need to replace parts if they are damaged or you want an upgrade. 

Regular and professional players

• Lifespan: The barrels themselves can last for years, but flights and shafts will need to be replaced more frequently, potentially every few months. 
• Parts: Even professional players may use the same barrel for years, even if it shows wear, because they are still happy with its feel and performance. 

How to make your darts last longer

• Maintenance: Store your darts properly and replace worn parts like flights and shafts when they become damaged. 
• Quality: Invest in durable equipment. 
• Grip: Be aware that more aggressive grips may wear down faster than other types of grips.