2013 Dodge Avenger Problems And Complaints

2013 Dodge Avenger User Complaints and Problems

Mechanical Complaints

• Engine problems- The 2013 Dodge Avenger’s engine, especially the standard 2.4L unit. Throttle body issues, camshaft position sensor failure, and oil leaks are some of the most commonly reported issues. Rough idle and loss of acceleration are some indications of throttle body issues while random stall and no-start conditions are indications of a faulty camshaft position sensor. Oil leaks do lead to engine overheating and a few instances of engine fires also have been recorded against the 2013 Dodge Avenger by the NHTSA. Loss of oil pressure due to internal part wear is also an issue reported on this sedan, which even received a factory recall (ID-13V552000) for the replacements of the affected part.

• Transmission Problems- Though not as common as engine issues, the 2013 Dodge Avenger does have a few transmission problems. Inability to shift out or ‘Park’, stalling when braking, shuddering and jerky shift are some of the most reported issues. Although not a widespread issue, some owners who have come across these symptoms did find the need for a transmission or torque converter replacement.

 Electric System complaints

• TPIM Issues- The total integrated power module (TPIM) on the 2013 Dodge Avenger is a known failure point on this sedan with average failure mileage recorded at around 75,000 miles. The main indication of a failing TPIM is the electronics going haywire. All warning lights may illuminate at once while certain functions such as the horn or wiper get triggered unwantedly. The fuel pump is also often affected causing a no-start condition or an engine stall while driving. Though it is a widespread issue with Didge cars of that time, no recalls have been initiated by the manufacturer.

• Alternator Failure- High mileage2013 Dodge Avenger sedans are known for alternator failures. An illuminated battery light is an indication of faults with the alternator. If you drive too long with the warning light on, it could degrade the battery to a point where it becomes not rechargeable. Most cases do require an alternator replacement as official dealers do not provide repairs on it.

• Heater Core Issues- The passenger side air vent on the 2013 Dodge Avenger does not blow hot air despite the controls set high. The issue is stated to be with the heater core, which due to manufacturing errors gets an insufficient supply of coolant resulting in reducing heating capacity. The owners are required to replace the unit with a new one or inspect and clear any cases of blockage or leaks.

Safety Complaints

• Airbags Issues- A faulty occupant restraint moduleand TPIM on the 2013 Dodge Avenger, do cause several safety system malfunctions. Three separate recalls (IDs-17V640000, 16V668000, and 13V282000) have been initiated by the manufacturer to rectify issues with the system. If your car has any safety system warnings flashing, it is highly advised that you get it checked by the nearest dealer.

2013 Dodge Avenger Recalls

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1	10th October 2017	17V640000	The active headrests may not deploy in a crash	A component within the occupant restraint controller (ORC) may fail and prevent the active headrests from deploying in the event of a rear-end crash, increasing the risk of injury.	The dealers will replace the ORC as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2017.
2	15th September 2016	16V668000	Airbag/ seatbelt pre-tensioners may be disabled	The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pre-tensioners, and side airbags from deploying in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury/	The dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017.
3	6th November 2013	13V552000	Loss of oil pressure may result in an engine stall	Due to abrasive debris in the balance shaft bearings, these engines may have a loss of engine oil pressure, possibly resulting in an engine stall or engine failure, increasing the risk of a crash.	The dealers will replace the engine balance shaft module, free of charge. The recall began on December 24, 2013.
4	2nd July 2013	13V282000	Non-Deployment of head restraints.	Electrical over-stress of a resistor in the occupant restraint control module may lead to the non-deployment of the active head restraints during a rear impact collision, increasing the risk of injury.	The dealers will flash the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) or replace the occupant restraint control module, as needed, free of charge. The recall began on November 19, 2013.
5	6th February 2013	13V043000	Fuel leakage or engine stall.	A broken control valve in the fuel tank assembly can lead to an engine stall or fuel leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.	The dealers will inspect the fuel tank assembly and replace any affected control valves, free of charge. The recall began on April 4, 2013.

Should you buy a used 2013 Dodge Avenger?

Getting a Dodge Avenger is a tough call this year. With an unhealthy dose of power train issues recorded in a short while, all along with an alarming number of engine fire incidents, this sedan is far from what we would tag as an ideal family car. The recalls and complaint number are on the lower side compared to some popular rivals, but the expectancy of a failure occurring on them are very low compared to this Dodge. All this coupled with Dodge’s patchy after-sales and recall support, the 2013 Dodge Avenger does place itself at the bottom quarter of the list for a good midsize sedan purchase this year.