Radiator Problems of Dodge Avenger

Dodge Avenger owners have reported 26 problems related to radiator (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Dodge Avenger based on all problems reported for the Avenger.

1 Radiator problem of the 2013 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 11/14/2020

I was driving down the interstate when my cel light came on. I barely made it to the side of the road o investigate it. My car would not run, and I had to get towed home. . . . . . Turns out the my upper radiator hose was broken where the fitting goes into the hose. After trying to find the fitting I was told I had to buy the entire assembly. Confused as to why I had to buy the entire assembly I looked at the new part and it had been redesigned where the fitting is now held on by a more permanent heat-shrink looking tube instead of hose clamps. Well, seeing that the upper radiator hose is a very important part of the radiator I was also a little confused as too why you would want consumers to have to spend 100. 00 for just the part , if they are lucky enough to be parked and find it, but if they are unlucky like myself then they also receive a tow bill on top of that. Seems to me that it is an ongoing problem because it has already been rediesigned. I believe that this should be under recall because if/when the fitting decides to break not only did my car cut off but there is a big likleyhood that it could lock up or even damage your water pump , engine, etc.

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2 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 10/02/2019

My car just started doing this. With the heat on, the driver side blows hot air, passenger side is cool air. Took it to Dodge today, they are saying my coolant is sludgy and they need to replace the radiator, heating core, oil filter housing, and flush. For almost $2900.

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3 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 02/15/2019

Dodge left residual machining debris in the Avenger engine blocks that flows with coolant into the heater core and radiator causing the heater core to clog up and blocks heat to passenger side in the winter causing unsafe or unfit to operate in cold weather. I've had my Avenger in Dodge dealership where they confirm my heater core is blocked. It costs over 2k to fix this issue caused by defective or lack of Dodge factory engine inspections. I've spoken to fca the Dodge parent company and their answer is we should've had extended warranty even though I'm within the mileage for the factory warranty but out of amount of years coverage . My Avenger had extended warranty from an outside source but that company will not cover Dodge created malfunctions. The attached info shows my Avenger at the Dodge dealership on 03-06-2019. I also had it serviced in wichita at pr autoglass and auto services just prior to bringing it to Dodge dealership. Pr autoglass and services stated it is the heater core and that the problem cannot be flushed out as it has accumulated in the heater core blocking it from being professionally flushed. The residue was also evident in the radiator but flushing did remove that the best we can tell. Dodge has a known issue with having left this debris in the engine blocks during the machining processes on Avengers.

4 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 11/23/2018

Tl the contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. While driving at unknown speeds, cold air emerged from the passenger side vent inside the vehicle. Also, there was no heat coming from the floor vents. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to freedom Chrysler Dodge Jeep ram by ed morse (815 e camp wisdom rd, duncanville, TX 75116, (972) 427-4019) where it was diagnosed that the oil cooler needed to be replaced and the radiator was clogged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,135.

5 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 10/17/2018

Dodge left residual machining debris in the Avenger engine blocks that flows with coolant into the heater core and radiator causing the heater core to clog up and blocks heat to passenger side in the winter causing unsafe or unfit to operate in cold weather.

6 Radiator problem of the 2013 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 02/04/2018

Tl the contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. While driving 35 mph, the contact noticed that no heat was coming from the passenger side heater. The vehicle was driven to larry h. Miller Dodge ram sandy (10985 s auto mall dr, sandy, ut 84070) where it was diagnosed that the radiator needed to be flushed several times and the oil heater needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that a service bulletin was issued for this failure. However, because the vehicle exceeded the three year mark, nothing could be done. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 64,000.

7 Radiator problem of the 2010 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 02/01/2018

Tl-the contact owns a 2010 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while in his driveway in a snow driift. He tried to rock back and forth to move his vehicle and the contact smelled smoke and fuel. He took the vehicle to an in dependent mechanic whos diagnosed on a lift that the insellation to protect the bottom of the vehicle had burnt off. The contact had not called a dealer of manufacturer because of the snowy conditions where he lives. The innsellation fire also burnt holes on the plastic gas tank. The VIN tool showed no current recalls. . The radiator fan had also shorted out since the snow on the ground blocked the fan from working. The failure mileage was 80,000. Tf.

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8 Radiator problem of the 2011 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 01/20/2018

The heater blows cold air in the passenger area of the car and warm air on the driver's side. The car never warms up enough to defrost the windows in winter. The cause is sand and metal shavings left in the engine block during manufacturing of the engine. The sand and metal shavings make their way into the heater core and radiator by about 50000. 00 miles or so. This is the cause of the heating issue because the bottom of the heater core plugs and the radiator also to an extent. This should be a recall by Dodge for sure. Please help us from the high cost of the dealers 1300. 00 charge to change the heater core and or radiator. From a discontent Dodge owner.

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9 Radiator problem of the 2011 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 10/31/2017

The heater in my car is only blowing heat on the driver side the passenger side is blowing cold air. Being from maine this creates a safety issue in the winter when the weather is inclement as it does not defrost properly as it should. I was quoted $2100 4 heater core and radiator replacement . With all the complaints for this same issue I have seen I would think that Chrysler Dodge with take responsibility do the right thing and fix this issue without charging the consumer.

10 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 08/16/2017

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. While driving approximately 35 mph, the engine overheated and the engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer (frank fletcher Dodge in sherwood, 501-834-7700) where it was diagnosed that the radiator needed to be replaced. The technician also stated that there was no recall and that the warranty expired. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that there was no recall. Additionally, the contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 16v668000 (seat belts, air bags). The failure mileage was approximately 101,246. Parts distribution disconnect.

11 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 04/28/2017

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. While driving 50 mph, the contact observed smoke coming from the engine and the vehicle shook violently. The contact pulled the vehicle off the road and the check engine and electronic throttle control warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the radiator and coolant system failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the alternator failed and had to be replaced a month prior. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failures. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

12 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 01/10/2017

The heat does not blow hot air on the passengers side of the car. This includes the windshield, causing a safety issue as it only clears the fog on one side. Dodge service shop said the issue is a known Chrysler issue, requiring a new radiator, heater core, and coolant bottle. At an estimate of $2235. 00. However Chrysler is refusing to do anything about it claiming it is not a known issue.

13 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 11/18/2016

Heater only blows cold air on passenger side. I have been told this is casing sand clogging the radiator, heater core and the oil cooler. This happens as a result of the heater core being the wrong size and Chrysler fixing the issue by casting it in place. This is a safety issue for those of us who live in states where the winter gets bad. While driving in inclement weather the snow, ice, or sleet will begin to accumulate on the windshield and passenger window. The sad part is that this is the second Dodge Avenger I have had with this issue and on both occasions I have been told it is not covered under the powertrain warranty. The bumper to bumper warranty has expired both times before this has become an issue. Chrysler needs to take ownership of this defect and fix it before it causes a death. To have this repair done costs $2500 with no guarantee that it will last.

14 Radiator problem of the 2013 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 11/16/2016

The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. While driving 20 mph, the vehicle began to overheat and the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the radiator cap, which controlled the pressure, was fractured. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 69,000.

15 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 11/11/2016

This is the second time that I only have heat on the drivers side. I was told that the problem is caused by casting sand that was in the engine which causes the radiator, heater core, and oil cooler to plug up. Not a cheap fix and I have seen complaints from many others with same issue. Manufacturer aware of problem.

16 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 06/20/2016

Poor heating system performance. Sludge builds up in the cooling system and restricts coolant flow to the heater core causing loss of heat in the passenger compartment. Loss of heat also effects the ability to DE-ice or prevent ice and snow build up on the windshield in cold weather operation. This can create a hazardous condition as visibility is greatly reduced. Chrysler group llc has no cause for the sludge formation. The only resolution is to replace the radiator, oil cooler, heater core and radiator cap after completely flushing the cooling system. This is to be done at the owners expense and can cost over $2500.

17 Radiator problem of the 2012 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 12/23/2015

Heater not working. (87,000 miles) took the car to the dealership where they gave me an estimate of $2500 to replace the entire coolant system (heater core, radiator, oil cooler, thermostat, water pump). The tech advised there was something restricting flow through the heater core. There is a 100,000 mile power train warranty on the car but they do not agree that the coolant system that cools the engine (power train) should be included. Where did the sediment/sludge come from? possibly oil contamination from the engine (power train)? this problem has been noted in numerous models and Dodge has released a statement to their techs to replace the entire coolant system because they know something they did is wrong. This is very similar to the problem gm had with dex-cool why is there not a recall for this problem the consumer should not be burdened with the failures of the manufacturer to provide a quality product. I hope this matter is taken seriously as it truly is a safety issue. If the heat does not work it is not just uncomfortable for the driver/passengers but it will also reduce visibility through the windshield since the defrost/heat does not work.

18 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 10/20/2015

I was exiting out of a parking lot in town and traffic was back up and at a standstill. As I attempted to turn left a car tried passing the stopped traffic in a no passing zone. The vehicle hit the front of my car, totaling it. The bumper was on the ground , radiator sideways, hood crinkled, fenders destroyed. My airbags did not deploy. The car that hit me was going fast and caused major damage. Taylorville police department police report number 15-341.

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19 Radiator problem of the 2013 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 09/07/2015

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that there were several failures that progressed, such as the front passenger side door handle fractured. The dealer replaced the door handle. The brake system was serviced several times and, while driving, the vehicle overheated and was pulled into a refueling station. The contact looked under the hood and noticed that the hose fractured from the radiator. The vehicle was unable to be driven due to the failures and had to be towed to a dealer. The dealer (kendall Dodge, 786-231-2120, 13355 137th Ave, miami, FL 33186) was notified of the failure. The contact was uncertain as to when the vehicle would be repaired. In addition, the contact received notification of a manufacturer's recall more than two years ago. The remedy and part were not available to receive the repair within a reasonable time frame for NHTSA campaign number: 16v668000 (air bags and seat belts). The manufacturer was notified of the failures and the contact was waiting to determine when the recall repair would be completed. The failure mileage was not available. Parts distribution disconnect.

20 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 09/02/2015

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. When the contact added antifreeze fluid into the radiator, it only would last a week, causing the vehicle to overheat. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed, but the origin of the leak could not be found. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.

21 Radiator problem of the 2013 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 12/15/2014

The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. When the heater was activated, the passenger side air vent failed to function. The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The technician diagnosed that the radiator operator hose and heater core needed to be replaced. Also, the technician stated that the coolant needed to be flushed and the evac system recharged. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer who diagnosed that the climate control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 63,000.

22 Radiator problem of the 2007 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 09/01/2011

The contact owns a 2007 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that the vehicle would stall sporadically. The dealer repaired the vehicle numerous times, but the failure constantly recurred. The manufacturer advised the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 07v473000 (engine and engine cooling:cooling system:radiator assembly). The failure mileage was 61,000 and the current mileage was 65,000.

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23 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 07/01/2011

I have a 2008 Dodge Avenger that I purchased about one year ago that I pay $350 a month for. My car started having problems about a month ago. It would not hold antifreeze but no visible leak, the car may have ran hot once or twice since this problem started. There was also a recall on my vehicle for an interlock bracket so on June 30 I decided to take my car to bob caldwell Chrysler on morse rd to have them investigate and repair my car (I also had the recall corrected). I told the service tech all the symptoms the car was having so he could properly diagnose my car. He told me I would have to pay $95 to have a diagnostic on my car. After they tested my vehicle I was told it was a small "$35" problem that could be fixed by replacing the radiator cap. I paid them for the replacement thinking this would solve the problem. The very same day the car was having the same problems so I called the dealership to inform them. They told me it was a "bubble in the system the needed to work itself out" and the car should be fine, drive it and call me in the morning if your having the same problem". I took their expert advice but the car did not improve so I took it back to bob caldwell Chrysler. They told me they would run the tests again on my car. When I went back they told me "there is nothing wrong with you car it pass all the test". They even stated I would not tell you to pick up your car if I felt something was wrong or it would damage your car more( I let him know I had this concern) or if there was something wrong, come pick up your car". I went back to get it on the way home from work the car would not pick up speed, there is thick white smoke from the front and back the overflow container under the hood swell up from the pressure looking like it was about to burst. I was driving on the freeway I could have killed myself.

24 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 12/28/2010

At 51000 miles on my 2008 Dodge Avenger, started smelling antifreeze odor inside the car. Eventually the check engine light and electrical light indicator illuminated and the car ran extremely rough and started to run hot. Eventually engine would lose power then shut off and not be able to restart for a couple of hours. Did not appear to be losing radiator fluid. Took to the dealership and found that the thermostat housing, (made out of plastic) was cracked and it was leaking antifreeze from that point. Had parts replaced. The part and service was warranted for 12 months/12000 miles. 10 months later, but 30000 miles later, current vehicle mileage 81000, same problem occured again, same parts replaced.

25 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 06/01/2009

Radiator loses coolant. This caused the car to over heat and the engine to be replaced, a new radiator and it still loses coolant 4 years later. Can't figure out where the coolant is going as it is never under the car (like a leak).

26 Radiator problem of the 2008 Dodge Avenger

Failure Date: 01/01/1901

2008 Dodge Avenger with a few defective parts. Consumer states that the vehicle has defective front door latch, radiator fan motor connector. When arriving for the repair she was informed the parts were not available. The consumer received 2 recall notices in the mail. Recall numbers 01v104000 and 07v473000.



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