What year did Dodge Dart have push button transmission?

The Dodge Dart first offered a dash-mounted push-button automatic in 1960. This feature marked Mopar’s push-button era on the Dart and appeared on select 1960 models; it continued in some early-1960s configurations but was not universal across all Darts.

Historical context and transmission options

During the early 1960s, Mopar offered two types of automatic transmissions with dash push-button selectors in the Dodge Dart lineup. The first was the two-speed PowerFlite, followed by the three-speed TorqueFlite as the lineup evolved. Availability varied by trim and body style, and the dash controls were typically arranged in a row of buttons with the gear positions labeled.

• PowerFlite (two-speed) with a dash push-button selector, associated with earlier push-button Mopar transmissions and featured on some 1960 Darts and related Chrysler products.


• TorqueFlite (three-speed) with a dash push-button selector, introduced to Dart lineups in the early 1960s and used on certain trims through the early-to-mid 1960s.

Conclusion: The push-button dash control for the Dodge Dart arrived at the start of the 1960 model year and persisted in some configurations into the early 1960s, before conventional shifters became the norm again across most Dart models.

Notes for collectors: identifying push-button Darts

Collectors can identify push-button Darts by the dash-mounted button cluster and the specific transmission decals or identification in original brochures. Since availability depended on year, trim, and region, always verify with period documentation or a reliable guide before dating or valuing a specific car.

• Dash button cluster labeled with P, R, N, D (and sometimes L or other modes) is a hallmark of push-button control.


• Early 1960s Darts and some related Mopar models used either PowerFlite or TorqueFlite with push-buttons.


• By mid- to late-1960s, the Dart lineup largely standardized on conventional floor-mounted or column-shift configurations.

Concluding note: Push-button transmission is a distinctive feature of certain early-60s Darts and reflects a brief era of Mopar style; verify specifics for any given car to confirm year, model, and transmission type.

Summary

The Dodge Dart first offered a dash-mounted push-button automatic in 1960. This setup used with the PowerFlite two-speed and later with the TorqueFlite three-speed on select trims, varied by year and body style, and faded from common use as shifters moved to floor or column controls in the mid-1960s. For precise dating, consult original brochures or a transmission-specific VIN look-up.

When did Chrysler stop push-button transmission?

Why did Dodge quit making the push button transmissions in the early 60s? I think they were called HydraGlide. Chrysler stopped making push button selectors in 1964.

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 years did cars have push-button transmission?

An innovation that first appeared in 1956, and lasted until 1966, was the push-button transmission. The pushbutton transmission was available in two incarnations: mechanical (pretty darned reliable) and electrical (extremely unreliable).

Did the Dodge Dart have push-button transmission?

1964 was the last year for pushbutton control of the optional Torqueflite automatic transmission, so 1963 and 1964 models were the only compact Darts so equipped.