What is the transmission problem on a 2014 Dodge Dart?
The most common transmission problem reported for the 2014 Dodge Dart is issues with the 6-speed automatic transmission, including rough shifting, hesitation, slipping, and, in some cases, complete failure. While not universal, these symptoms have appeared frequently enough to warrant attention from owners and technicians alike.
Across model years affected by the Dart’s 6-speed automatic platform, technicians point to a few recurring culprits: hydraulic control via the valve body, solenoid operation, fluid quality and level, and software calibration within the transmission control module. The combination can produce anything from intermittent rough shifts to stubborn gear engagement, and in rare cases, a transmission replacement. This article breaks down what to look for, why it happens, and how owners can pursue diagnosis and remedies with confidence.
Common Symptoms
If you're experiencing transmission trouble, the following signs are the ones most frequently reported by Dart owners. They can appear individually or in combination, and they often prompt a diagnostic check by a dealer or independent shop.
- Harsh, delayed, or irregular shifting between gears
- Slipping out of gear or engine revs rising without corresponding acceleration
- Shudder or vibration during low-speed or light-throttle driving
- Clunking noises when the transmission engages or changes gear
- Transmission warning light or check-engine light illuminated on the dash
- In rare cases, the vehicle fails to go into gear or stalls at low speed
Owners reporting these symptoms are advised to seek a diagnostic from a qualified technician, especially if the vehicle is still under warranty or covered by a recall or service bulletin.
Root Causes and How They Develop
The underlying causes cited by technicians typically involve the automatic transmission’s hydraulic and electronic control systems. Understanding these can help explain why symptoms vary from hesitation to complete failure.
- Valve body wear or debris that impairs hydraulic pressure and gear engagement
- Faulty or sticking solenoids that regulate fluid flow and clutch/torque converter operation
- Contaminated, low, or incorrect transmission fluid which can degrade hydraulic performance
- Torque converter issues that cause slipping, shuddering, or poor stall performance
- Electrical problems in the Transmission Control Module (TCM) or related sensors that misread speeds and loads
- Software calibration or re-flash needs for the TCM/PCM to correct shifting behavior
Technicians often begin with a software update and a fluid check, then move to more involved repairs if symptoms persist. Because the Dart shares a modern automatic platform with other Fiat-Chrysler products, similar root causes and remedies have been observed across the lineup.
What to Do and How It Is Addressed
Owners who notice transmission issues should act promptly to avoid further damage and to preserve potential warranty coverage. The following steps are commonly recommended by dealers and independent shops.
- Check for active recalls or service campaigns using your VIN and visit a Chrysler/Fiat store or authorized service center
- Have the vehicle scanned for transmission-related codes (TCM/PCM diagnoses) to identify specific fault areas
- Request software/TCM calibration updates if available, as some problems can be resolved with an operator-level fix
- Assess transmission fluid level and condition; replace or flush with the correct manufacturer-specified ATF if required
- If problems persist after software and fluid service, be prepared for more substantial repairs such as valve body or solenoid replacements, or, in extreme cases, transmission replacement or remanufacture
Because coverage can vary by year, model, and warranty status, owners should document symptoms, service visits, and any dealer communications. Warranty or goodwill assistance may apply, especially if a known service bulletin addresses the issue.
Maintenance Tips and Risk Reduction
While some transmission problems are prompted by wear or manufacturing variances, regular maintenance and prudent driving can help reduce risk and extend life. Consider these practical steps.
- Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for the automatic transmission, including periodic fluid checks and changes with the correct ATF specification
- Avoid prolonged heavy towing or continued high-load driving when the transmission shows early warning signs
- Address leaks or overheating promptly to prevent fluid loss or degradation
- Stay current on software updates and recalls through a certified dealer; a dealer can perform TCM/PCM recalibrations that improve shifting and reliability
- Keep a detailed maintenance and service history to support warranty or goodwill requests
In practice, proactive maintenance and early diagnosis are the best defense against escalating transmission problems in the 2014 Dodge Dart.
Summary
The 2014 Dodge Dart’s most common transmission-related problems center on the 6-speed automatic’s shifting dynamics. Symptoms range from rough or delayed shifts to slipping or harsh engagements, and in rare cases, to transmission failure. Root causes often involve valve-body hydraulic issues, faulty solenoids, fluid problems, torque converter concerns, or electrical/software faults in the transmission control system. Owners should monitor symptoms, check recalls and service bulletins, and pursue prompt diagnosis and appropriate repair—ideally under warranty—while adhering to maintenance best practices to minimize future risk.
