Is a 2013 Dodge Dart a reliable car?
Overall, the 2013 Dodge Dart is not considered highly reliable compared with its compact-sedan peers. Reliability scores from major surveys tend to be below average, and many owners report issues that can add up as the car ages.
What the reliability data says about the 2013 Dart
Reliability ratings for the 2013 Dart come from several sources that track long‑term quality and owner experiences. While there are individual examples of dependable cars, the consensus for the 2013 Dart across major outlets and owner reports is that it generally falls below the class average in reliability. Engine and transmission performance, electrical systems, and overall build quality are the areas most frequently cited in discussions of the model year.
- Powertrain and transmission concerns: Numerous owners report rough shifting or hesitation with automatic transmissions on some 2013 Darts, and there have been recalls tied to transmission components in early production.
- Electrical and electronics: Dash/resetting gauges, infotainment glitches, and other electrical quirks have appeared in owner feedback for the 2013 Dart, especially as miles accumulate.
- Interior and body wear: Cabin rattles, trim gaps, and occasional interior reliability issues have been noted by owners in longer-term ownership journals and reviews.
- Recall history and service needs: The Dart platform has seen several recalls over its production run, so a used 2013 model should come with a clean recall status and documented service history.
In short, while some examples may run reliably for many miles, the 2013 Dart as a model year is commonly described as having notable reliability challenges compared with more established compact sedans.
What to look for if you’re considering a used 2013 Dart
If you’re assessing a used 2013 Dart, a careful pre-purchase check is essential. The most important checks center on transmission behavior, engine condition, and the car’s electrical system, along with a review of service and recall records.
- Transmission and drivetrain test: Take the car on a drive to assess smooth shifting, hesitation, or shuddering. Review maintenance records for transmission fluid changes and any documented automatic transmission service.
- Engine and fuel system inspection: Look for excessive oil consumption, leaks, abnormal noises, or reduced power that could indicate deeper issues with the Tigershark engines or Turbo variants.
- Electrical systems and electronics: Test the gauge cluster, lights, climate control, and Uconnect/infotainment. Look for intermittent faults or warning lights that stay on.
- Recall status and maintenance history: Check for outstanding recalls and confirm that all issued campaigns have been addressed by a qualified technician.
- Structural and body condition: Examine for rust (where applicable), door alignment, and any signs of previous collision repair that could affect reliability.
Thorough verification of these areas can help determine whether a particular 2013 Dart has avoided some of the model year’s more common reliability drawbacks.
Engine options and what they mean for longevity
The 2013 Dodge Dart offered a couple of engine choices, each with its own maintenance profile. Understanding these can help buyers anticipate potential costs and reliability outcomes.
2.4L Tigershark engine
The 2.4L Tigershark is a more common choice for the Dart’s non-turbo variants. It delivers solid torque for daily driving but has its own maintenance considerations, such as timing components and cooling system reliability. As with any engine, regular service is crucial to minimize long‑term issues.
1.4L turbo engine
The smaller 1.4L turbo offers improved fuel economy and stronger torque at low revs. Turbocharged engines can be more sensitive to maintenance history and driving style; look for smooth turbo operation, stable boost, and a clean service record to reduce the risk of turbo-related problems.
Overall, the choice of engine influences maintenance costs and reliability prospects. A well-documented service history for either engine is a good sign, but potential buyers should be prepared for higher repair costs if issues arise with turbo components or fuel systems.
Ownership costs and resale value
Because the Dodge Dart was discontinued after the 2016 model year, resale values on the 2013 Dart tend to be modest compared with more proven and durable compact sedans. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average for this class when issues arise, particularly if the vehicle has not been well-maintained or if a malfunction affects the transmission, electrical system, or turbo components.
Prospective buyers should budget for regular maintenance, prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, and verify the vehicle’s recall status and service history to understand ongoing ownership costs and reliability expectations.
Bottom line and guidance for buyers
The 2013 Dodge Dart can be a reasonable daily driver in terms of space and features, but its reliability record is not among the strongest in the compact sedan class. If you’re considering one, aim for a well-documented example with a clean service history, and be prepared for potential maintenance or repair needs as the car ages. For buyers who place a premium on long-term reliability, alternatives in the compact segment from brands with stronger reliability track records may offer greater peace of mind.
Summary: The 2013 Dodge Dart offers decent practicality and value for a used compact, but reliability is generally below the class average, with common concerns around the transmission, electrical system, and overall build quality. A careful pre-purchase inspection and complete service history are essential for anyone considering this model year.
