2016 Dodge Dart Safety Report
2016 Dodge Dart: Excellent crash ratings, but significant powertrain recall issues and high complaint volume raise safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Dodge Dart
Reliability Score
The 2016 Dodge Dart receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Dodge Dart
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Dodge Dart:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Shifter Cable Detachment The shifter cable may detach from the transmission, preventing the vehicle from shifting into park or other gears, leading to rollaway risk or being stuck in gear. This is covered by two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V674000 and 19V293000). |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Windshield Wiper Failure Voltage spikes from the windshield washer pump can cause wiper failure, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V406000). |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Un-Commanded Torque Event A software issue in 2.0L manual transmission models could lead to an un-commanded torque event, increasing crash risk (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V043000). |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Dodge Dart:
Predominantly related to the automatic transmission shifter cable detaching, leading to inability to shift or loss of park function. This accounts for 44 out of 232 complaints.
Reports include loss of power, stalling, and fluid leaks. This accounts for 29 out of 232 complaints.
Issues such as battery drain, electrical motor noises, and general electrical malfunctions. This accounts for 15 out of 232 complaints.
Complaints include brake caliper detachment and general brake system failures. This accounts for 12 out of 232 complaints.
Issues with windshield wipers failing, aligning with a recall for voltage spikes affecting the wiper pump. This accounts for 8 out of 232 complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Dodge Dart
Is the 2016 Dodge Dart safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Dodge Dart received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, it has a high number of complaints (232 total) and 5 recalls, with a significant safety concern regarding the powertrain's shifter cable, which can lead to a loss of park function and rollaway risk. This issue has been linked to 14 crashes and 9 injuries.
What are common problems with the 2016 Dodge Dart?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Dodge Dart are related to the POWER TRAIN (44 complaints), primarily concerning the transmission shifter cable detaching. Other common problems include ENGINE issues (29 complaints) such as loss of power and fluid leaks, and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM malfunctions (15 complaints).
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Dodge Dart?
Yes, there are 5 recalls for the 2016 Dodge Dart. Key recalls include two related to the automatic transmission shifter cable (NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V674000 and 19V293000), one for windshield wiper failure (16V406000), and another for a potential un-commanded torque event in 2.0L manual transmission vehicles (16V043000).
How does the 2016 Dodge Dart perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Dodge Dart performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for frontal crash and side crash tests, and 4 stars for the rollover resistance test.
What should I know about the transmission issues?
The transmission issues, specifically the shifter cable detaching, are a major concern and are covered by two recalls. Many owners have reported being unable to shift into park or other gears, leading to potential rollaway. Several complaints indicate that parts for the recall repair have been unavailable, leaving owners with unrepaired and unsafe vehicles.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant and recurring powertrain issues, particularly the transmission shifter cable recall, and verify that all 5 recalls have been properly addressed with available remedies before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Dodge Dart
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Dodge Dart. The data includes 232 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 14 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Dodge Dart an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.