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Is a 2013 Dodge Dart rear wheel drive?

The 2013 Dodge Dart is not rear-wheel drive. It is a front-wheel-drive compact sedan, with no factory rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive option for that model year.

Drivetrain architecture of the 2013 Dodge Dart

For the 2013 Dart, every trim is front-wheel drive, with a transverse engine layout designed to maximize interior space. The model year offered multiple engine options and transmissions, but none included rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive from the factory.

Drivetrain layout: Front-wheel drive (FWD) across all 2013 trims; no factory AWD or RWD option.

Engine options: 2.0-liter Tigershark I4 (base), 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo (turbocharged), and 2.4-liter Tigershark I4 (sportier variants).

Transmissions: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, depending on trim and engine choice.

Platform: The Dart uses a front-wheel-drive platform derived from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, tuned for American-market practicality and efficiency.

Overall, the Dart's front-drive layout was chosen to maximize interior space and fuel economy within its compact sedan segment.

Can a 2013 Dart be rear-wheel drive or converted?

There is no factory rear-wheel-drive option for the Dart. Some enthusiasts discuss aftermarket attempts to convert to RWD, but such projects are extensive, costly, and rarely practical or advisable due to engineering changes and warranty concerns.

Factory status: No RWD or AWD option offered for the 2013 Dart in the U.S. market.

Conversion reality: A true RWD conversion would require substantial chassis, drivetrain, electronic, and safety-system modifications, making it impractical for most owners.

Warranty and support: Any such modification would void factory warranties and Mopar support.

Alternate options: If rear-wheel drive is a must, consider other Dodge models (e.g., Charger or Challenger) or other brands with true RWD in their lineup.

In short, if rear-wheel-drive performance is a priority, the 2013 Dodge Dart is not the right choice, and buyers should look to other vehicles for that configuration.

Implications for buyers and enthusiasts

For many buyers, the Dart's front-drive configuration aligns with typical expectations for a modern compact sedan—space, efficiency, and predictable handling. Enthusiasts who want rear-wheel-drive dynamics should manage expectations or choose a different vehicle. The Dart remains a practical choice in its segment, without a factory RWD option.

Handling and performance considerations

Front-wheel drive generally offers good traction in normal conditions and efficient packaging, but it can understeer when pushed hard and torque-steer can appear on turbocharged variants. The Dart's available sport trims improve some handling characteristics, but they do not change the fundamental FWD layout.

Summary

The 2013 Dodge Dart is a front-wheel-drive compact sedan with multiple engine options and no factory rear-wheel-drive configuration. If rear-wheel drive is essential, consider other Dodge models or different brands that offer RWD in a similar class.

What year to avoid Dodge Dart?

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.

Is a 2013 Dodge Dart front or rear wheel drive?

The 2013 Dodge Dart is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle. It is not a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model.

Drivetrain: All models of the 2013 Dodge Dart were manufactured with a front-wheel-drive system.
Basis: The car was built on a platform shared with Italian-based Alfa Romeo, which is also front-wheel-drive.

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Dodge Dart?

According to many owners of the 2013 Dodge Dart, battery failure is a common problem for the model year. Most of them had to replace their car's battery twice in two years. Drivers have reported that their battery died abruptly while they were driving. Most of them also had to deal with steering and braking issues.

Is the Dodge Dart FWD or RWD?

The Dodge Dart is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle. It was built on an Italian-designed platform and front-wheel drive was the only option available for its entire production run.

Drivetrain: All model years and trims of the modern Dodge Dart are front-wheel drive.
Platform: The car's design was based on an Alfa Romeo platform, which was also front-wheel drive.
Transmission options: You could get the Dart with a manual or automatic transmission, but both sent power to the front wheels.

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.