Is a Dodge Dart expensive to maintain?
The Dodge Dart is not inherently expensive to maintain compared with its peer compact sedans, and routine upkeep is generally affordable. Because the model was discontinued after the 2016 year, parts availability and repair pricing can vary more than for current models, especially as the car ages and accumulates miles. Some owners have reported transmission and electrical issues, which can influence maintenance costs for certain examples.
Cost drivers for the Dodge Dart
Understanding what most influences maintenance spending helps set expectations for ownership. The following factors play a major role in how much you’ll pay over time.
- Age and mileage: Older vehicles with higher miles typically require more frequent servicing and replacement parts.
- Engine and transmission configuration: The Dart offered multiple powertrains, and some combinations have different maintenance profiles and part costs.
- Parts availability and pricing: As a discontinued model, new OEM parts can be harder to source, which may affect price and lead times; aftermarket parts can help, but quality varies.
- Labor rates and repair options: Dealer service departments often charge more than independent shops; regional differences can also influence cost.
- Reported trouble spots: Some owners have reported transmission and electrical issues; these can become costly if they recur or require major repairs.
In short, while routine upkeep is typically reasonable, the total cost landscape shifts upward for high-mileage or hard-to-source Dart models.
Typical recurring maintenance costs
Here are the common, ongoing expenses you’re likely to see with a Dodge Dart, based on how many owners approach maintenance on cars from this era. These items tend to occur regularly and influence yearly costs.
- Oil changes and filter replacement at intervals recommended by the manufacturer, with costs varying by oil type and shop.
- Brake service, including pads (and potential rotor service) as wear requires, usually every 30,000–70,000 miles depending on driving style.
- Tire replacement as tread wears down, with cost dependent on tire size and chosen brand.
- Battery replacement every few years, depending on climate and usage.
- Air filters and cabin filters at routine intervals to maintain engine breathing and interior air quality.
- Spark plugs (engine dependent) and cooling system checks, typically around scheduled maintenance milestones.
Bottom line: Regular maintenance for a Dodge Dart is manageable and aligns with what you’d expect from other compact sedans of its era, so staying on a predictable service schedule helps keep costs down.
When repairs can get pricey
Major repairs or repeated problems can push costs higher, especially on a car that’s older or out of production. Being aware of potential trouble areas can help you budget and decide whether to buy used or keep a Dart you already own.
- Automatic transmission wear or failure on certain model years, which can require rebuilds or replacements.
- Electrical or sensor failures that can cause intermittent symptoms and diagnostic costs.
- Suspension wear, including worn bushings or struts, which affect ride quality and handling.
- Cooling system components (water pump, radiator, hoses) that may fail with age and trigger overheating if neglected.
- Brake system wear beyond standard maintenance, including caliper or rotor issues on higher-mileage cars.
Tip: If you’re considering a used Dart, a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is highly advisable to flag transmission, electrical, and cooling-system concerns, and to verify recall repairs have been completed.
Bottom line
Because the Dodge Dart is an older, discontinued model, maintenance costs are generally in the same ballpark as other compact sedans from its era, with potential spikes for high mileage or problematic units. Regular, proactive maintenance helps keep ownership affordable, while buying used calls for careful checks to avoid expensive surprises later on.
Summary
The Dodge Dart is not inherently expensive to maintain, but being out of production means parts sourcing and potential repairs can vary more than for current models. Regular upkeep remains essential, and a thorough inspection is especially important when purchasing a used Dart to keep ownership costs predictable. Overall, the Dart sits in line with its compact-sedan peers—affordable to maintain for many owners, with added risk for high-mileage or problem-prone examples.
