While manufacturers do their part in making sure that vehicle designs are reliable and safe, there are times when manufacturing errors or faults are still causes of concern. Manufacturing problems may not be obvious until the vehicles are on the road, so they may have to issue a recall later.
How many recalls were issues for the 2013 Dodge Dart? In total, six. These included:
- Parking brake recalls
- Airbag recalls
- Service brake recalls
- Three power train recalls
In this article, we’re going to talk about each of these recalls and help you understand the steps to get the problems fixed by a professional.
Power Train Transmission Shifts Into Neutral
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V542000
A transmission should not shift on its own. Unfortunately, some 2013 Dodge Darts have transmissions that shift into neutral, which can cause the vehicle to lose motive power. Without control, this could lead to a collision.
The failure takes place in the transmission control module, which could lead to an unexpected shift into neutral.
Repairs include replacing the TCM and bracket.
Parking Brake is Inoperable
NHTSA Recall ID: 13V124000
If the Dodge Dart’s parking brake is inoperable, the vehicle could roll despite being parked. This increases the chances of a crash occurring.
Chrysler is fixing this issue by replacing any affected brake calipers. Presently, the issue is caused by vehicles being built with the wrong rear brake calipers, which leads to inoperable parking brakes.
Airbags Do Not Deploy
NHTSA Recall ID: 13V555000
The 2013 Dodge Dart sometimes has problems with its airbags, which led to a recall in November 2013. In the event of a collision, the airbags may not deploy, which increases the risk of injuries.
2013 Dodge Dart vehicles that were manufactured in May 2013 through August 2013 are the most likely to be affected and need to have the front seat-mounted side airbags inspected and reinstalled as necessary. The campaign number for the recall is N61.
Service Brakes, Hydraulics: Potential Damage to Brake Booster and Loss of Brake Assist
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V800000
2013 Dodge Dart vehicles that were manufactured between February 2012 and January 2014 may have problems with engine oil seeping into the brake booster. This damages a component in the brake booster, which could lead to the loss of brake assist.
This issue leads to longer braking times and could increase the risk of a collision.
To repair it, the brake booster grommet is inspected for oil. If there is no oil, the vacuum tube assembly is replaced.
If there is oil, then the vacuum pump, brake booster, master cylinder and vacuum tube assembly must be replaced, but the parts are not available. Owners have to wait for the parts to be available and will receive a notice.
Power Train Engine Stalls
NHTSA Recall ID: 13V238000
The power train recall issued in June 2013 describes situations in which an engine may stall while in drive. This increases the risk of a serious or fatal collision due to a loss of control.
This malfunction happens when the temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit or colder in most instances.
To repair it, the powertrain control module must be reprogrammed.
Power Train Shifter Cable Detaches
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V293000
Some Dodge Darts created between 2013 and 2016 are being recalled for shift cable bushing and may fail. This results in the shit cable detaching from the transmission.
If this happens, the vehicle may not perform shifts as directed by the driver. It may also roll away despite being in PARK, increasing the risk of collisions.
The repair for this malfunction is to replace the transmission side shifter cable bushing.
How Do You Handle an Open Recall on a 2013 Dodge Dart?
If you’re not sure if your 2013 Dodge Dart has any open recalls, you should visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website and input your vehicle’s VIN. You will need to know your vehicle’s year, make and model if you do not have the VIN on hand.
The system will then look at the information and give you a list of possible open recalls on your vehicle’s model.
If a recall comes up, call the Chrysler customer service line at 1-800-853-1403. The customer service center will give you the next steps to take so that you can get your vehicle serviced.
Remember, not all problems are going to be obvious. Be sure to check Vehicle History to learn more about any vehicle you’re interested in buying.