Why did they stop making Dodge Avengers?
The Dodge Avenger was discontinued after the 2014 model year, largely due to falling sales and a FCA-led shift toward SUVs and crossovers.
Across its lifetime, the Avenger existed as two distinct generations: the first from 1995 to 2000, and a second from 2007 to 2014. The decision to end the model came as part of a broader effort by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) to streamline its lineup and focus on higher-demand, higher-profit vehicles. The following sections outline the Avenger’s history and the reasons behind its retirement.
Two generations at a glance
Here is a concise timeline of the Avenger’s two generations and their lifespans.
- First generation (1995–2000): A mid-size sedan introduced as Dodge’s entry in the segment, replacing earlier Spirit-era models and sharing a traditional four-door layout.
- Second generation (2007–2014): A restyled variant of the Chrysler Sebring, sharing its underpinnings with other FCA four-door models and concluding with the 2014 model year.
The two generations illustrate how the Avenger moved from an affordable entry in the mid-size segment to a more conventional four-door sedan, before eventually facing a market that favored crossovers over traditional cars.
Why production ended
Several factors converged to end the Avenger, reflecting broader shifts in the auto industry and FCA’s strategic priorities.
- Declining sales in the mid-size sedan segment as buyers increasingly favored SUVs and crossovers.
- Overlap with related Dodge and Chrysler sedans (notably the Sebring lineage and later the Chrysler 200) that led to cannibalization and higher costs for a model with limited market appeal.
- A corporate lineup rationalization by FCA that prioritized higher-margin vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and performance models (Charger and Challenger), over aging sedan models.
- Costs associated with maintaining and updating an aging platform and model despite modest sales, making continued production less viable.
In short, the Avenger’s discontinuation was part of a deliberate strategic shift by the automaker to streamline its offerings around vehicles with stronger demand and profitability.
Impact on Dodge's lineup today
Since the Avenger’s retirement, Dodge has leaned more heavily on crossovers and performance-focused cars, such as the Durango SUV and the Challenger/Charger muscle cars, while sedans occupy a smaller, more selective portion of the brand’s portfolio. The retirement of the Avenger fits a broader industry pattern where mainstream four-door sedans have ceded ground to SUVs and trucks.
Summary
In sum, Dodge stopped producing the Avenger after the 2014 model year because sales declined and FCA chose to focus on more profitable, in-demand vehicles. The two generations—1995–2000 and 2007–2014—reflected changing consumer tastes and a broader shift in the automotive landscape toward crossovers and trucks. The Avenger’s retirement underscores how automakers continually reassess product lines to align with market demand and corporate strategy.
Do Dodge Avengers have problems?
Engine stalling, safety system concerns, and transmission hesitation are common issues in the 2013 Dodge Avenger. Owners also reported problems with faulty door latches and the electrical system.
What year to avoid Dodge Avenger?
The Dodge Avenger years to avoid are 2008-2014, with the 2012 model year being particularly problematic due to a high number of serious issues reported at low mileage, including transmission failures and a faulty heater system. Other years to be cautious of are the 2011-2014 model years, which have a recall for a faulty airbag control module, and the 2008-2010 models, which are known for numerous recalls and complaints.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Dodge Avenger models from 2008 to 2014: 51sAutoMotivateYouTube · Sep 17, 2020
Specific model years to avoid
- 2008-2014: This entire generation is known for common issues like failed blender actuators, transmission problems, and faulty heaters.
- 2012: This specific model year stands out as particularly bad due to frequent transmission problems and heater failures, with many issues reported at lower mileage compared to other years.
- 2007-2014: Common issues across these years include unreliable transmissions and failing heater systems.
- 2008-2011: These models had numerous recalls and common problems, including issues with the transmission and heater systems.
Key issues to look out for
- Transmission problems: Erratic shifting, slipping, and failure are common in both four-cylinder and V6 models.
- Heater failure: Many models experience heater failure, where the heater only blows air on the driver's side.
- Airbag module failure: The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing airbags from deploying in a crash.
- Engine and electrical issues: Some models have issues with the engine stalling or not starting, which can be caused by faulty sensors or other electrical problems.
- Brake problems: Premature wear of brake pads and rotors is a common complaint.
Why was Dodge Avenger discontinued?
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. This coupe utilized the third-generation Eclipse platform and architecture. Mitsubishi assembled it at the former Diamond Star plant.
Is Dodge Avenger coming back?
World of the 2025 Dodge Aventure dodge has brought back this iconic name plate. And it's best than ever in this video. We'll explore everything from design and performance to technology. And pricing.
