What are common problems with a 2015 Dodge Dart?

Common problems reported for the 2015 Dodge Dart focus on the transmission, electrical and infotainment systems, and engine performance, with safety recalls regularly checked. While many owners report solid reliability with diligent maintenance, some cars experience issues that can lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.

Transmission and driveline concerns

Below are the most frequently discussed transmission-related issues reported by Dart owners. These symptoms have appeared across several model years in this generation and are commonly cited by service departments and owner forums.

• Automatic transmission: Rough or delayed shifting, especially at low speeds or during light acceleration; some cases involve shuddering between gears.


• Transmission reliability: Occasional reports of transmission failure or need for major repairs (torque converter or valve body issues) at higher mileage.


• Manual transmission wear: Clutch chatter or slipping in manual-transmission models, particularly with high mileage or aggressive driving.


• Transmission warning lights: Intermittent check engine or transmission fault codes that prompt diagnostic work.

Conclusion: Transmission and driveline problems are among the most commonly reported issues for the 2015 Dart, so buyers and owners should pay attention to shifting quality and any warning lights, especially as mileage increases.

Engine performance and reliability

Engine-related concerns cover a range of symptoms from misfires to hesitation. While engines in the Dart are generally straightforward four-cylinders, certain issues have shown up in owner reports and service notes.

• Engine hesitation or lack of power: Some drivers report sluggish acceleration or momentary power loss during throttle input, potentially tied to ignition, fuel delivery, or sensor issues.


• Misfires and rough idle: Misfire codes (P0300 family) and rough idle can occur, often traced to ignition components or fuel/fuel-injection concerns.


• Ignition/fuel system wear: Worn ignition coils or spark plugs can contribute to misfires and reduced performance, especially as the engine ages.


• Oil consumption or minor leaks: Occasional reports of higher-than-expected oil consumption or seepage around engine gaskets, typically requiring monitoring or gasket replacement.

Conclusion: Engine performance problems tend to surface as maintenance needs accumulate. Regular diagnostics and timely component replacements help mitigate larger failures on the 2015 Dart.

Electrical and infotainment issues

Electrical systems and the car’s infotainment suite are frequent sources of complaints, with several common symptoms reported by owners and independent technicians.

• Uconnect and infotainment faults: Touchscreen glare, freezing, rebooting, or loss of Bluetooth/device connectivity; sometimes requiring software updates or unit replacement.


• Electrical accessory failures: Problems with power windows, door locks, or interior lighting due to regulators, wiring, or module faults.


• Dashboard/instrument panel quirks: Flickering gauges or intermittent warning lights can occur, sometimes linked to grounding or module faults.


• Battery and charging concerns: Occasional premature battery discharge or alternator-related charging issues, especially in cars with high electronics loads.

Conclusion: Electrical and infotainment problems are among the more visible nuisance issues for Dart owners, but many are addressable through software updates, component replacements, or targeted repairs.

Safety recalls and ongoing maintenance

Safety campaigns and routine maintenance play a crucial role in long-term reliability. The Dart has been part of multiple recall campaigns and service advisories over the years, so VIN-based checks are essential.

• Recall status: The Dart has been subject to several safety recalls, including those related to airbags and other safety components; owners should verify VIN-specific recall status with NHTSA or the dealer.


• Regular maintenance: Adherence to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule—oil changes, fluid checks, brake service, and timing/drive belt checks where applicable—helps prevent some of the common failures described above.


• Warranty and service history: A clean service history with documented transmission, ignition, or electrical work can indicate better long-term reliability.

Conclusion: Staying current on recalls and routine maintenance is key to mitigating the more significant safety and reliability concerns on the 2015 Dodge Dart.

How to evaluate a used 2015 Dodge Dart

If you’re shopping for a used Dart, consider these practical checks to reduce the risk of running into the common problems outlined above.

• Test drive focusing on transmission behavior: note any hesitation, shudder, or rough shifts; ask for a cold and warm start drive to observe differences.


• Inspect the electrical system: test the Uconnect system, power windows, door locks, lights, and gauges; listen for any dashboard warning lights.


• Review maintenance and recalls: request a full service history and a VIN-based recall check; confirm recent transmission or engine work.


• Have a trusted mechanic evaluate: a pre-purchase inspection can identify wear on ignition components, seals, and the cooling system that might not be obvious on a test drive.

Conclusion: A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clean maintenance/recall record can greatly improve confidence in a 2015 Dodge Dart purchase.

Summary

The 2015 Dodge Dart offers solid space and value in the compact sedan segment, but owners should be mindful of transmission behavior, engine performance quirks, and electrical/infotainment reliability. Regular maintenance, proactive diagnostics, and verification of recall status are the best defense against the most commonly reported issues. When buying used, a professional inspection and a complete maintenance history are essential to avoid surprises.

Is the Dodge Dart 2015 reliable?

The 2015 Dodge Dart has a mixed reliability record, with some owners reporting issues with electrical components, the Uconnect system, and the transmission, while others have had few problems and report good longevity. Consumer review sites often give it an average or below-average reliability score, and it had a number of recalls, particularly related to the transmission. However, some owners have praised its handling and durability, with one owner reaching over 200,000 miles with mostly routine maintenance. 
Common issues reported

• Transmission problems: Automatic transmission issues were frequent, leading to recalls and complaints about sluggish performance. Manual transmission issues also occurred, with a class-action lawsuit filed for certain models. 
• Electrical and software glitches: Problems with the electrical system, Uconnect system, and other software have been reported. 
• Cooling system issues: Coolant leaks and other thermostat problems have been noted. 
• Check Engine light: Various reasons have been cited for the check engine light, including failed ignition coils and an oil pressure sensor. 

This video discusses the pros, cons, and common issues of the 2013-2016 Dodge Dart: 46sUsed Car GuideYouTube · Oct 30, 2024
What to consider

• Recalls: There were several recalls for the 2015 model, so it's important to check if all recalls have been addressed. 
• Maintenance: Proper and consistent maintenance, especially for models with turbocharged engines, is crucial. 
• Transmission: Be extra cautious if considering a model with an automatic transmission due to the reported issues and recalls. 
• Owner experience: Some owners report excellent long-term reliability, while others have experienced numerous problems, suggesting there may be some variability in individual car performance. 

How many miles does a 2015 Dodge Dart last?

A 2015 Dodge Dart's lifespan varies greatly, with some owners reporting over 200,000 miles and others experiencing significant issues around 100,000 miles, making its longevity dependent on factors like the specific engine and consistent maintenance. While some owners have seen high mileage, others faced major problems like transmission issues, especially if routine maintenance was neglected or certain engine problems like oil consumption were not addressed, notes Reddit users. 
Factors affecting longevity

• Maintenance is key: Owners who consistently perform regular maintenance, including oil changes, report longer lifespans for their Darts. 
• Engine: The 2.4L engine is known for oil consumption, so it is important to check the oil level frequently and keep it topped off. 
• Transmission: The transmission is a point of concern for some owners, with some reporting issues around 100,000 miles. A 2013-2015 recall for a transmission problem should also be checked. 
• Individual vehicle luck: Some vehicles have issues and others don't, making the Dart a "hit or miss" car for reliability. 

What to expect

• Potential for high mileage: Some 2015 Darts have reached over 200,000 miles, demonstrating that high mileage is possible. 
• Potential for problems: It is important to be aware of potential issues, especially those related to the transmission and the 2.4L engine's tendency for oil consumption. 
• Average repair costs: The average annual repair cost is about $597, with major issues being less frequent than average, according to RepairPal. 

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. 

What is the most common problem with the 2015 Dodge Dart?

The Dodge Dart received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal. The most common Dodge Dart problems include excessive oil consumption in the 2015 model year, stalling in the 2014 Dart, and damaged sun visors for the 2013 Dart.