The Dodge Nitro Years To Avoid
Dodge Nitro by Karrmann - CC-BY-SA-4.0
Based on the Jeep Liberty, the Dodge Nitro SUV is one of the more noteworthy entrants in the SUV segment, boasting a bold and aggressive design that helps it stand out. Its styling is a standout feature, with sharp lines and an imposing stance that exudes confidence and power.
One of the key strengths of the Dodge Nitro SUV is its class-leading towing capacity. This feature sets it apart from many competitors, making it a strong choice for those who need a vehicle capable of heavy-duty tasks. In addition to its towing prowess, the Dodge Nitro SUV offers functional cargo space. This makes it a practical choice for families or individuals who require ample storage for their daily needs or adventurous getaways.
However, despite these impressive features, the Dodge Nitro SUV doesn’t quite measure up to other vehicles in its segment in some respects. Regardless, it’s still a solid option if you’re buying a pre-owned SUV. Unfortunately, some years of the Dodge Nitro have a poor track record in reliability.
So for today’s post, we highlight the worst Dodge Nitro years to avoid and offer insights into why used car buyers should avoid them. Let’s take a look.
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Which Dodge Nitro Years To Avoid?
Below are the most problematic Dodge Nitro years to avoid due to numerous reliability woes and a high number of owner complaints:
- 2007 Dodge Nitro
- 2008 Dodge Nitro
- 2011 Dodge Nitro
2007 Dodge Nitro
If there’s a Nitro year that should absolutely be avoided, it’s the 2007 model. CarComplaints.com has documented a whopping 788 complaints and seven recalls for this SUV. The owners’ top complaints include numerous electrical issues, faulty TIPM, and various engine and powertrain problems.
The major fault of the 2007 Nitro lies in its widespread electrical issues. And with an older model like this one, these electrical gremlins are only bound to worsen. Below is a quick breakdown of the electrical problems you may encounter:
- Self-activating locks and lights: Some owners reported that Nitro’s locks and lights would activate independently. This included the doors locking and unlocking without input and the lights turning on and off randomly.
- Issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM): Many reported problems were traced back to the TIPM. These included the windows rolling down by themselves, the horn sounding randomly, and lights flashing without input. Some owners also reported that their Nitro would stall while driving, which they believed was related to the TIPM.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE DODGE NITRO
If you’re interested in a used version of the older Dodge Nitro, you might wonder - what is the most reliable Dodge Nitro year on the market?
- Malfunctioning power windows and door locks: Many reports indicate power windows and door locks would stop working intermittently. Sometimes, only the driver’s side door would unlock.
- Random activation of windshield wipers and horn: Some reports detailed how the windshield wipers and horn would activate without input. In some cases, the horn would sound continuously until the fuse was removed.
- A/C issues: A few owners also reported problems with their air conditioning not working properly.
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In addition, this model year also received hundreds of complaints about its fuel/gasoline system. For instance, some owners reported fuel spraying from the filler neck onto the ground while refueling. This issue is related to the defective rollover valve within the fuel tank. Meanwhile, some owners were informed by the dealer or the manufacturer that the entire fuel tank needed to be replaced due to issues with the rollover valve.
We could go on for more issues, but the gist is that the 2007 Dodge Nitro is an instant pass for us.
2008 Dodge Nitro
Although it has fewer complaints, the 2008 Nitro is pretty much a rehash of 2007 regarding reliability woes. CarComplaints listed over 700 complaints and three recalls for the 2008 Nitro, with the bulk of the reports lamenting the car’s faulty electrical system and TIPM.
Outlined below are the potential issues you may encounter linked to the Nitro’s faulty electrical system/TIPM:
- TIPM failure: This is the most common issue reported. The TIPM is a crucial component that controls and distributes power to the vehicle’s electrical functions. When it fails, it can cause a variety of problems.
- Problems with starting the vehicle: Several owners reported difficulties starting their cars. In some cases, the vehicle would not start at all.
- Various electrical malfunctions: Owners reported various electrical malfunctions, including issues with the interior lights, horn, windshield wipers, and door locks. Some reports claimed these features would activate by random chance.
- Battery drain: Some owners reported that the faulty TIPM would cause a parasitic drain on the battery, leading to the battery dying prematurely.
- Vehicle stalling: Some owners reported that their Nitro would stall without warning, often while driving at high speeds. This is a dangerous issue as it can lead to accidents.
- Fuel pump issues: Some owners reported that the fuel pump would not shut off, even when the vehicle was turned off. This could lead to the fuel pump burning out and needing replacement.
Due to factors like age and overall wear, there’s a good chance you’ll run into these issues with a used 2008 model, making it one of the worst Dodge Nitro years to avoid.
8 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN BUYING A USED CAR
So you’re in the market for a used vehicle? We’ve gone ahead and prepped some essential questions to ask when buying a used car.
2011 Dodge Nitro
The 2011 Dodge Nitro is the most reliable year on this list, but you should approach it with caution due to some familiar pain points. According to CarComplaints, the 2011 Nitro has collected 246 complaints and three recalls.
Once again, the faulty TIPM makes an unwelcome return in this model year. From various electrical failures to vehicles not starting to battery drains, the 2011 Nitro was reportedly riddled with TIPM-related problems, which could only get worse with age. In addition, many owners expressed frustration with the cost of repairing these issues. The TIPM can be an expensive component to replace because it’s integral to so many functions of the vehicle.
Several owners also reported an issue with the check engine light that stays on, which could point to a dozen different things. Although it has fewer complaints than the two years we’ve mentioned, we highly recommend doing a double or triple take when buying a used 2011 Nitro.
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