Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Dodge Dart
The 2014 Dodge Dart has several significant issues related to the powertrain and brakes, supported by both recalls and complaints. While it may have a stylish design and features, prospective buyers should be cautious due to these concerns. The data shows issues with transmission components and brake systems, necessitating thorough inspection. Complaint data is substantial, indicating prevalent problems owners face, especially related to the transmission and engine.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Dodge Dart has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 373 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V674000 Detached Shifter Cable May Cause Vehicle Rollaway NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V293000 Shifter Cable Bushing May Detach From Transmission NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V800000 Power Brake Booster Contamination NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V542000 Transmission Control Module Failure NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 133 complaints
- Engine 104 complaints
- Unknown or Other 75 complaints
- Electrical System 74 complaints
- Service Brakes 60 complaints
- Steering 20 complaints
Of the 373 complaints on file, 21 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 373 complaints, owners report 17 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Shifter cable may detach
How to check: Inspect shifter operation; ensure it shifts into park seamlessly.
Brake booster may get damaged
How to check: Test brake responsiveness; check for stiffness or delay.
Control module failure
How to check: Look for warning lights or unusual shifts during test drive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or hesitation.
Red flag: Loud knocking or repeated stalling.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent transmission or engine lights.
- 03
Slow neighborhood drive
What to check: Observe if gear shifts are smooth.
Red flag: Jumpy or harsh gear changes.
- 04
City driving
What to check: Feel for consistent braking response.
Red flag: Brake pedal feels unusually stiff or soft.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor acceleration for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or abnormal transmission noises.
- 06
Park and reverse
What to check: Ensure shifter moves effortlessly into each position.
Red flag: Difficulty moving shifter or engaging park.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the shifter cable been replaced?
- Any recent issues with brakes?
- Have transmission recalls been addressed?
- Does the car have any warning lights on?
- Has the brake booster been inspected?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history report
- Recall repair records
- Transmission service receipts
- Brake system maintenance records
- Vehicle inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Dodge Dart at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Dodge Dart? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.