Is the Dodge Avenger a good car to buy?
The Dodge Avenger, a midsize sedan produced by Dodge from 1995 to 2014, has garnered mixed reviews over the years. If you're considering purchasing a Dodge Avenger, it's essential to weigh its pros and cons based on your needs, budget, and expectations. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down the key aspects of the Dodge Avenger to help you make an informed decision.
Strengths of the Dodge Avenger
The Dodge Avenger has several appealing features that make it a viable option for certain buyers. Here are some of its strengths:
- Affordable Pricing: The Dodge Avenger is often priced lower than many competitors in the used car market, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Sporty Design: The Avenger boasts a bold and sporty exterior design, which appeals to those looking for a car with a distinctive appearance.
- Engine Options: It offers a range of engine options, including a V6 engine in higher trims, which provides decent power and performance for its class.
- Spacious Interior: The cabin provides ample space for passengers, making it a comfortable choice for families or long commutes.
Potential Drawbacks of the Dodge Avenger
While the Dodge Avenger has its strengths, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Reliability Concerns: The Avenger has been criticized for its below-average reliability, with issues reported in areas such as the transmission and electrical systems.
- Interior Quality: The interior materials and build quality are often considered subpar compared to competitors in the same class.
- Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel efficiency of the Avenger lags behind some of its rivals, especially in models equipped with the V6 engine.
- Discontinued Model: Since the Dodge Avenger was discontinued in 2014, finding replacement parts and receiving manufacturer support may be more challenging over time.
Who Should Consider Buying a Dodge Avenger?
The Dodge Avenger can be a good choice for buyers who:
- Are looking for an affordable midsize sedan with a sporty design.
- Don’t mind investing in regular maintenance to address potential reliability issues.
- Need a spacious interior for passengers or family use.
However, if reliability, fuel efficiency, or interior quality are top priorities for you, it may be worth exploring other options in the midsize sedan market, such as the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, whether the Dodge Avenger is a good car to buy depends on your specific needs and expectations. While it offers affordability and a sporty design, potential buyers should be aware of its reliability concerns and discontinued status. If you decide to purchase a Dodge Avenger, be sure to have it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic to ensure it’s in good condition. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re always here to help with pre-purchase inspections and ongoing maintenance to keep your car running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the worst years for Dodge Avenger?
Some of the top Dodge Avenger problems include squealing brakes, a stalling engine, and the engine not starting. The 2008, 2012, and 2014 models had the most complaints from owners on RepairPal and CarComplaints.com.
Are Dodge Avengers expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Dodge Avenger is $541. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Why did they discontinue Dodge Avenger?
The coupe did not achieve high sales numbers, so in 2000, the Avenger was discontinued. It was replaced by the Dodge Stratus coupe for the 2001 model year.
How much is insurance for a Dodge Avenger?
Compare Dodge Avenger insurance rates by model year
| Model Year | Average Monthly Cost | Average 6-Month Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dodge Avenger 2022 | $70 | $421 |
| Dodge Avenger 2021 | $69 | $412 |
| Dodge Avenger 2020 | $69 | $412 |
| Dodge Avenger 2019 | $69 | $411 |
What is the common problem of Dodge Avenger?
Some of the top Dodge Avenger problems include squealing brakes, a stalling engine, and the engine not starting.
What is the most common problems with a Dodge Avenger?
Below are some of the Dodge Avenger's most common problems:
- Squeaking Brakes.
- Engine Stalling.
- Engine Not Starting.
- Air Conditioning/Heater Not Working Properly.
- Transmission and Shifting Issues.
- Engine Cooling Problems.
How long will a Dodge Avenger last?
around 200,000 miles
You can expect a standard Dodge Avenger to survive around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, though some will last far longer with proper maintenance. Some Dodge Avengers are okay to invest in if they have more than 100,000 miles, but those without proper maintenance from former owners should be avoided.
How reliable are Dodge Avengers?
According to carparts.com, the Dodge Avenger is not just a reliable vehicle but also very fairly priced compared to the competition. You will find excellent average scores for the Dodge Avenger's reliability. It's a quality vehicle even though it was discontinued almost a decade ago.
Are Dodge Avengers high on insurance?
In the market for auto insurance for your Dodge Avenger? The annual cost of your coverage varies based on the type of auto insurance coverage you select. The average you will pay is $460 for minimum coverage and $1,143 for full coverage.
How much is a tune up for a Dodge Avenger?
A generic tune-up usually costs between $150 and $500.
