Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Dodge Dart
The 2016 Dodge Dart has a moderate number of known issues, primarily in the power train and electrical systems, as indicated by 263 owner complaints and five recalls. Transmission detachment problems and electrical failures warrant thorough scrutiny. Evidence on other issues is limited, so a careful inspection is crucial.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Dodge Dart has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 263 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 #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V813000 Windshield Wiper Circuit Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V113000 Powertrain Control Module Missing Backup Software NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 87 complaints
- Engine 67 complaints
- Unknown or Other 61 complaints
- Electrical System 49 complaints
- Service Brakes 26 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 13 complaints
Of the 263 complaints on file, 14 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 263 complaints, owners report 9 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Shifter cable may detach
How to check: Shift through all gears, ensuring smooth transitions.
Windshield wiper circuit failure
How to check: Test wipers for proper function and response.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor transmission shifts for smoothness.
Red flag: Hard or missed shifts
- 04
Straight-line braking
What to check: Ensure brakes stop the car evenly.
Red flag: Car pulls sharply to one side
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe acceleration response is prompt and smooth.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking
- 06
Parking
What to check: Engage parking gear and listen for clicks.
Red flag: Failure to secure in park
- 07
Engine shutdown
What to check: Observe idle vibrations before turning off.
Red flag: Excessive shaking or noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission been serviced or repaired?
- Are there any electrical system updates?
- Have the recalls been addressed?
- Any history of engine issues?
- Are service records available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair and maintenance records
- Title and registration
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Dodge Dart at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 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.