2008 Dodge Avenger

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 832 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 6 times.

Avoid One of the Dodge Avenger years to avoid: 4.6× the complaints of a typical Avenger year. Which Dodge Avenger years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
70,000 milesMedian miles at failure

715 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2008 Dodge Avenger problems

186 of the 832 complaints (22%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System157
181
Power Train · transmission104
201
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration91
000
Air Bags · airbags72
15018
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission69
000
Engine69
110
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine29
231
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system25
010
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control22
120
Unknown or Other20
216

2008 Dodge Avenger transmission problems

22% of all complaints

186 of the 832 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • shifts hard, late or not at all26% · 49
  • sets off warning lights on the dash5% · 10
  • loses power4% · 8
  • stalls4% · 8
  • jerks, lurches or bucks3% · 6

Share of the 186 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
52,390 mi
median of 171 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
115 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
2 · 0 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
None
“Tl* the contact owns a 2008 dodge avenger. The contact stated that the gear did not shift out of park without warning. The contact called russ darrow chrysler, jeep, dodge, ram of west bend at 262-808-2700 (located at 3210 w washington st, west bend, wi 53095) and was informed that there was no recall. The technician recommended a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 20, 2019
“'takata recall" I was leaving the hospital on january 1, 2017, I put the vehicle in reverse and as I shifted to drive it was noticeably shifting rough (not the gear, the shift stick)I was proceeding to pay for parking and a lady was waiting behind me frustrated. I made it home with the vehicle. I was unable to start it again.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 1, 2017 at 100,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2007: 5 complaints, 2 about the transmission'072008: 30 complaints, 2 about the transmission2009: 39 complaints, 14 about the transmission'092010: 164 complaints, 115 about the transmission2011: 72 complaints, 9 about the transmission'112012: 82 complaints, 9 about the transmission2013: 90 complaints, 5 about the transmission'132014: 80 complaints, 6 about the transmission2015: 68 complaints, 5 about the transmission'152016: 50 complaints, 4 about the transmission2017: 39 complaints, 4 about the transmission'172018: 33 complaints, 3 about the transmission2019: 41 complaints, 3 about the transmission'192020: 10 complaints, 2 about the transmission2021: 6 complaints, 2 about the transmission'212022: 10 complaints, 1 about the transmission2023: 5 complaints, 0 about the transmission'232024: 4 complaints, 0 about the transmission2025: 3 complaints, 0 about the transmission'252026: 1 complaints, 0 about the transmissionRecall 07V104000 (door locks and latches)Recall 07V240000 (airbags)Recall 08V152000 (electrical system)NHTSA investigation AQ10001
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2008 Avenger peaked in 2010, with 164 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 22% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Wiring08V152000
Filed Apr 2, 2008180,963 vehiclesChrysler LLC

Defect. CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 180,963 MY 2007-2008 SEBRING AND DODGE AVENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A STANDARD TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS). UNUSED ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS FOR THE TPMS MAY BECOME CORRODED AND COULD SHORT CIRCUIT, WHICH CAN CAUSE A VARIETY OF CONDITIONS INCLUDING ENGINE NO-START, DEAD BATTERY, AN INOPERATIVE CRUISE CONTROL OR REMOTE START SYSTEM, AND/OR ENGINE STALLING.

Risk. ENGINE STALLING COULD CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL SEAL THE WIRES FOR THE TPMS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Radiator Assembly07V473000
Filed Oct 10, 2007102,042 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4 LITER ENGINES, THE ENGINE COOLANT MAY BE DRAWN INTO THE LEFT RADIATOR COOLING FAN MOTOR CONNECTOR.

Risk. THIS CAN CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT AND RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CONNECTOR FOR CONTAMINATION OR DAMAGE, INSTALL A WIRING HARNESS OVERLAY, AND REPLACE THE FAN MOTOR FREE OR CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly07V426000
Filed Sep 13, 20071,158 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WERE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED AND COULD SEPARATE. THIS CAN CAUSE THE FUEL TANK TO LOOSEN AND LEAK FUEL.

Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN AN UNDERBODY FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK RETENTION STRAPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch07V414000
Filed Sep 12, 200772,333 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE FRONT DOOR LATCH CABLE MAY BECOME PARTIALLY UNSEATED FROM THE INTERIOR RELEASE HANDLE HOUSING POSSIBLY CAUSING THE LATCH TO STICK IN THE UNLATCHED POSITION OR THE LOCK FUNCTION TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.

Risk. DRIVING A VEHICLE WITH AN UNLATCHED DOOR CAN RESULT IN AN UNBELTED FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT FALLING OUT OF THE VEHICLE OR BEING EJECTED IN A CRASH, CAUSING INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL ADD A SECONDARY RETENTION FEATURE TO BOTH FRONT DOORS. THIS ACTION WILL SUPERSEDE AND EXPAND A PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL (PLEASE SEE 07V-104). THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 29, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Air Bags › Frontal07V240000
Filed Jun 13, 2007798 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FRONT SEAT TRACK POSITION SENSORS UTILIZED FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY.

Risk. THIS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO FRONT SEAT OCCUPANTS DURING CERTAIN CRASH CONDITIONS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT SEAT TRACK POSITION SENSORS AND REPLACE THEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALLBEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch07V104000
Filed Mar 15, 200711,191 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FRONT DOOR LATCH CABLE MAY BECOME PARTIALLY UNSEATED FROM THE INTERIOR RELEASE HANDLE HOUSING CAUSING THE DOOR LATCH TO STICK IN THE OPEN POSITION AND NOT BE SECURED TO THE STRIKER.

Risk. DURING CERTAIN CRASH CONDITIONS, THE POSSIBILITY OF A DOOR OPENING COULD CAUSE AN UNBELTED PASSENGER TO BE EJECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.

Remedy. THIS ACTION IS SUPERSEDED (PLEASE SEE 07-V414.) DEALERS WILL ADD FREE OF CHARGE A SECONDARY FEATURE TO BOTH FRONT DOORS TO PREVENT THE DOOR LATCH CABLE FERRULE FROM BECOMING UNSEATED AT THE INTERIOR FRONT DOOR RELEASE HANDLE HOUSING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 30, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2008 Avenger.

Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion AuditAudit query AQ10001Closed
Opened Nov 18, 2010Closed Dec 28, 2015unknown or other

On November 18, 2010, NHTSA's Recall Management Division (RMD) opened an audit query (AQ10-001) to investigate recall remedy completion by rental car companies on safety recall campaigns.It was expected to provide the agency an indication of how completely and how quickly rental car fleets perform necessary recall-related remedies on the vehicles owned and then rented/leased for use on the roadways.RMD queried three (3) major motor vehicle manufacturers (Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors) and requested data regarding completion figures for fifteen (15) discreet safety recalls.Analysis of …

Technical service bulletins

59 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2008 Avenger. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

transmission 12engine 12equipment 11electrical system 9seat belts 4body and frame 3fuel system 1equipment adaptive/mobility 1
21-006-12 REV. AWarranty extensionNov 3, 2012transmission

Vehicle Exhibits Vibration From The Transmission During Vehicle Launch (X43 Warranty Extension 5 Years 160,000 KMS) This bulletin involves replacing the clutch and damper assembly. The customer may experience a vibration feeling as they accelerate from a stop or accelerating while rolling at slow speeds. This condition could be caused by the damper and …

21-006-12 REV. AWarranty extensionNov 3, 2012transmission

Vehicle Exhibits Vibration From The Transmission During Vehicle Launch (X43 Warranty Extension 5 Years 160,000 KMS) This bulletin involves replacing the clutch and damper assembly. The customer may experience a vibration feeling as they accelerate from a stop or accelerating while rolling at slow speeds. This condition could be caused by the damper and …

21-006-12 REV. AWarranty extensionNov 3, 2012transmission

Vehicle Exhibits Vibration From The Transmission During Vehicle Launch (X43 Warranty Extension 5 Years 160,000 KMS) This bulletin involves replacing the clutch and damper assembly. The customer may experience a vibration feeling as they accelerate from a stop or accelerating while rolling at slow speeds. This condition could be caused by the damper and …

9004009Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 7, 2021transmission

Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, …

CSN-K16Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 1, 2010transmission

CHRYSLER DODGE SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER INTERLOCK SPRING. TRANSMISSION GEAR SHIFT LEVER INTERLOCK SPRING RETAINER HOOK ON VEHICLES MAY BREAK. A BROKEN INTERLOCK SPRING RETAINER HOOK WILL RESULT IN THE INABILITY TO MOVE THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER OUT OF THE PARK POSITION. CSC LETTER WAS …

SB-1800309 REVCService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 11, 2009transmission

CHRYSLER/JEEP/DODGE: FLASH-DRIVEABILITY IMPROVEMENTS OR MIL ILLUMINATION DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0452-EVAP PRESSURE SWITCH STUCK CLOSED. INCLUDES MY09 TOWN&COUNTRY; VOYAGER AND CARAVAN. *PE

Showing the newest 6 of 12 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2008 Dodge Avenger 4DR. w/SAB———★★★★★11.8%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 24, 2026NC

So a month ago the car started running hot I’m unsure what the cause maybe and my reservoir has cracked. When I turn the ac or heat on the car begins to run hot as well.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 9, 2025CA

My 2008 Dodge Avenger airbag light has been on for a while, I believe that’s something that is defective and should be fixed by the manufacture. I’d called a dealership and was told it was not a recall and therefore not covered. When the wipers are turned on in the morning and then turned off, they continue to wipe even turned off. When I use the right blinker, the light in the dashboard dims seems like an electrical problem. I believe other things might be wrong but I’m not a mechanic. I would like my car to get inspected for safety. Thank you.

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Oct 26, 2025TN

Breaking system failed, it is available for inspection, I told the state trooper what happened along with several police officers, they agreed that the breaking system was not supposed to lock up which caused the car to skid several feet and the end results are that a very bad wreck happened which left my car undrivable and locked up, the car front disk breaks , front wheel drive,there not suppose to lock up. The air bag did go off, there was no warning sign to let you know you were going to crash, the car picked up speed even while the breaks were fully pushed to the floor when the car did not slow down this caused a wreck and totaled the front of my car resulting in the frame being severely damaged , hood push in, windshield busted, driver hit with air bag, car had to be pulled whiteout being able to be put in neutral which caused more damage to car. There was no warning until the breaks locked up and plowing into another automobile. Two other vehicles involved, could only see one , both were not moving, saw no break lights, no turn signal, this Caused the driver to be injured, driver had cruse control set to speed limit 55, trooper suggested was speeding they were not and they are white not Chinese.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 7, 2025CT

The recalls associated to my vehicle are the same exact problems I am experiencing. My car is stalling and stalled on the highway. I couldn’t accelerate and had to drive with my hazards.

Steering
Filed Nov 30, 2024MI

NO ACCIDENTS REARS TIRES LEANING INWARDS

Suspension
Filed Oct 30, 2024120,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while turning to the right, the passenger’s side front wheel seemed to be rubbing against the rubber or plastic piece underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the front suspension cross member had failed due to excessive rust. The contact was informed that the front suspension cross member needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that there was no recall associated with the VIN related to the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed May 29, 2024144,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that the front driver's side door failed to latch securely. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 07V104000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) and 07V414000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recalls. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 25, 2024CA

Air bag warning light and alarm on the dash board.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jun 1, 2023FL

When utilizing the front wipers during the rain the wipers will stop working at any giving time. also sometimes when you utilize the turn signals the wipers will come on and remain in the upward stuck position. after doing vigorous research about this known issue with dodge vehicle i came across a lot of information online with dodge owners of various models. the dodge avenger forum has tons of write ups of people complaining about the issue with their wipers intermitting operation function. many write up mention the tipm/fuse panel. my question is why hasnt dodge recall vehicle that are affected by this. my concern of this is a major safety issue i have priced the tipm and this would be a very expensive repair for an out of pocket expense especially if this is something that was created at the manufacturing level of this particular part this part definitely defective issues and dodge isn't doing nothing about this.

EngineFire
Filed Apr 12, 2023MI

I was idling at a stop light when I noticed my car began to smoke shortly after the check engine, check oil and the battery alert all simultaneously came on. I then pulled over to a near alleyway when a burst of flames arose from the hood of the car.

Engine
Filed Mar 27, 2023250,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The battery, the check engine, and the throttle body warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact noticed an abnormal odor while the vehicle was parked. The contact noticed there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact's father lifted the hood and removed the positive (+) charge cable from the battery. The contact's father replaced the battery and the alternator; however, the failure recurred while driving. The contact's father replaced the alternator for the second time. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 08V152000 (Electrical System) and 07V426000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), however, the dealer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 255,000.

Vehicle Speed Control › Throttle
Filed Mar 8, 2023CA

The car runs perfect but all the sudden started dying while in reverse then a lightning bolt with lines on each side was flashing and the car died. So we changed the spark plugs and did a full service and it ran fine then started doing the same thing where it’s getting no power and won’t go at all. Let it sit for a minute then hen will drive fine for a little bit and start acting like it’s not getting any power i don’t understand what’s going on with it

Electrical System
Filed Jan 27, 2023MN

Car keeps have the battery light come on out of nowhere and already replaced battery alternator and the cables for battery last winter which then had to be clipped because it was extremely hot and melting my cables and other wires. I have had nothing but electrical issues since I bought it the beginning of last winter something needs to be done and I shouldn’t have to keep paying for parts on faulty electrical and parts the manufacturer should and I have no recalls on my 08 Dodge avenger how is that even possible?

Electrical System
Filed Dec 13, 2022TN

The voltage constantly reading low we have bought a new battery new alternator and still reading the same thing battery constantly coming back on and staying on than all the lights starts popping up on the dash than the car cuts off many dodge users said it turned off to be there pcm and i feel that dodge needs to do a recall

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Nov 29, 2022146,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while reversing out of a parking lot, an abnormal snapping sound was coming from the vehicle. The contact had her husband inspect the vehicle and he discovered that the subframe had fractured due to severe corrosion. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was given an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.

Power Train
Filed Nov 7, 2022140,000 milesIA

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up after multiple attempts. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer and the contact was informed that the failure was related to the key. The key was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 23, 2022DE

While driving my airbag light came on I checked for recalls it tells me there is no unrepaired recalls on my car but something’s not right

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 20, 2022WI

I saw there was a recall for the same car as mine but one year earlier. My car is leaking gas which was the effects of this recall. Could it possibly be affecting the 2008 also?

Air Bags
Filed Sep 21, 2022CA

The dash warning light for an airbag problem came on yesterday.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 25, 2022CO

I have been having issues since I bought the car about my battery dying even though it's been replaced twice. When jumping car it will drain whatever is charging it almost completely. Or it won't properly connect. Lights keep coming on on the dash even though it keeps being read and it always leads back to the battery or a wiring issue I looked into the recalls recently and noticed one of the recalls for wiring are causing the same issues I'm dealing with. I checked the Vin and it says 0 unprepared recalls. I don't know if there's ever been a repair of the issue or not. Whatever is going on is exactly the same as the recall. Hopefully we can get this sorted.

Suspension
Filed Jul 17, 2022WI

2008 Dodge Avenger Suspension Steering Crossmember K Frame 04094C Front, Suspension has rusted apart and is causing steering issues. Tire is coming loose from drive terrain causing wheel to hit frame while turning.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 10, 2022MN

Gas tank straps wore a hole in my gas tank because they move around

Electrical System
Filed Mar 23, 2022NV

I bought the car pre-owned. I knew almost immediately that there was a electrical problem because the inside lights would come on when I would break. I've had non stop problems with the car and until now I didn't know it was a recall problem. My gear shift linkage has went out stuck in gear. My water pump has gone out . It's overheated on numberous occasions smells like a electrical fire happening. The car won't start it stalls out all the time at least two times a day. The website says that my car has already received the recalls but the exact problems they have listed are the exact problems I'm having and it's a safety hazard for real. They told me I was going to have to pay to get it fixed since my car already received the recalls. I don't think this is fair I think that if they "fixed" it then it shouldn't be a problem now but it is so it seems like the "fix" didn't work I need help being pointed in the right direction of who can look at this and really fix it please

Air Bags
Filed Dec 20, 2021MS

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the airbags warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 176,000.

Engine
Filed Sep 3, 2021OR

Hi my name is [XXX] and I’m 28 years old and a full time single mom of 2 girls 24/7 and in February I bought a 2008 Dodge Avenger 2.7 and the day I drove it home the check engine light came on and well long story short there it took them a month to “fix” the issue and 3 days later after getting my car back after NOT having it for a month the check engine light came on again…needless to say here it is almost September 7 months later and there has many endless problems and the car dealership will not return my phone calls or texts or emails about my car and wanting to trade it in for another one on there lot !!! They are crooked people and shouldn’t be a business I have so much proof INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Electrical System
Filed Aug 26, 2021TX

Engine stopped during a red light intersection, cranked up once and engine stopped again. After a dangerous intersection situation , car was towed by a pair of young boys to a safe spot. A serious accident may have resulted, if not for the quick help. Being an automotive teacher and passed shop owner inspected the situation and have come to a conclusion that the TPIM failed. No warning lights appeared during situation. Scanner will not pick up any codes when hooked up to try to correct problem. 2008 Avenger with 88000 miles, will take to dealership for repairs.

Air BagsCrash1 injured1 killed
Filed Jun 28, 2021MO

The contact owned a 2008 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while her grandson was driving at an unknown speed, he lost control of the vehicle. The contact was informed by the police officer, that the vehicle flipped 4 times and the driver was not wearing his seat belt, which caused the driver to be ejected from his seat and was found half inside the cab and half outside the driver's side window. The contact stated all the other air bags deployed, except the front driver side airbag. The contact was informed the driver was deceased when the police and the front passenger sustained injuries on her left shoulder, chest pains, a laceration on her right leg, and scratches on her left leg. The contact stated the front passenger did seek medical attention at the hospital. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not drivable. The insurance company deemed the vehicle a total loss. The vehicle was towed to her residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Power Train
Filed May 16, 2021TX

The gear shift locked in park.

Power Train
Filed Mar 29, 2021159,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AT PARKING LOT, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED SHE REMOVED THE GEAR ASSEMBLY AND MANUALLY SHIFTED THE VEHICLE INTO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 159,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 7, 2020180,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE CHECK ENGINE, OVERHEATING, TIRE PRESSURE AND ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS RESTARTED AND OPERATED AS INTENDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL QUICKLY DUE TO THE VEHICLE STARTING TO SHAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING FOR THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE WAS NOT PROVIDED WITH DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION ON THE STALLING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT AN EMAIL WOULD BE FORWARDED TO HER. THE EMAIL WAS NOT RECEIVED FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 180,000.

Power Train
Filed Nov 29, 2020120 milesMA

AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE CAR AUTOMATICALLY GOT INTO LIMP MODE. INTO A COMPUTER PROTECTION TO PROTECT THE TRANSMISSION. THE COMPUTER IS ALSO FRESHLY BRAND NEW.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 26, 2020133,775 milesFL

MY HAS STALLED TWICE AND MY CRUISE CONTROL IS NOT WORKING

Power Train
Filed Jul 12, 2020122,000 milesWA

I WAS DRIVING MY DODGER AVENGER AND THE AXIAL BROKE UNDERNEATH. IT WAS AN ORIGINAL PART AND I HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO GET ANOTHER ORIGINAL PART TO REPLACE IT FROM MOPAR WITHOUT IT BEING ABLE TO FIT.

Engine
Filed Jul 9, 2020100,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE SHUDDERED AND OVERHEATED. THE CHECK ENGINE AND ENGINE TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER TO ALLOW THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE TO DECREASE TO A SAFE VEHICLE OPERATING TEMPERATURE. AFTER COOLING OFF, THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED HOWEVER, WHILE DRIVING TO HER DESTINATION THE VEHICLE AGAIN OVERHEATED. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND CHECKED THE COOLANT RESERVOIR ONLY TO FIND THAT THERE WAS NO COOLANT IN THE RESERVOIR. THE CONTACT ADDED COOLANT TO THE RESERVOIR HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE RESIDENCE AND THEN TOWED TO BUTITTA BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE (3012 N MAIN ST, ROCKFORD, IL 61103 815-962-7914 TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Electrical System
Filed May 23, 2020GA

MY VEHICLE LOST POWER IN THE MIDDLE OF OPERATION , I ALSO LOST POWER STEERING AND BRAKING DURING THIS EVENT. *TR

Structure
Filed Apr 18, 2020170,000 milesIL

WATER LEAKING INTO TRUNK RUNNING RISK OF SHORTING OUT THE BRAKE LIGHT SYSTEM. HAVE A WARRANTY AND MOPAR REFUSES TO FIX THE PROBLEM UNDER MY BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Mar 1, 2020108,000 milesMN

CARS HAS BEEN RANDOMLY STALLING AND STOPPING WHILE IM DRIVING. IT HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES ON THE DAY IT HAPPENED. MY HORN ALSO INTERMITTENTLY GOES OFF WITH NO WARNING AND SOMETIMES IT SOUND OF FOR MINUTES AT A TIME. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH THE ISSUE POINTS TO THE TIPM (TOTALLY INTEGRATED POWER MODULE).

Engine
Filed Feb 25, 202070,000 milesOR

WATER BEHIND DRIVER SEAT ON FLOOR BOARD, LOCKING MECHANISM FOR PASSENGER DOOR STOPPED WORKING, REAR TAIL LIGHTS COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING, HAS A SHIFTING PROBLEM

Air Bags
Filed Jan 31, 2020GA

I PURCHASED MY 2008 DODGE AVENGER FROM A PRIVATE DEALER ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO, I FAILED TO REALIZE THAT THE ONLY WARNING LIGHT THAT WAS ILLUMINATED WAS THE AIR BAG. AFTER RESEARCHING THE ISSUE I DISCOVERED THAT THIS LIGHT MEANS THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG IS DEFECTIVE. MY VEHICLE HAS 172, 114 MILES ON IT. THIS IS A CORDING TO THIS WEBSITE IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS YR MODEL AVENGER. WHAT CAN I DO TO GET THIS FIXED IS THERE A SAFETY RECALL? THIS CAR HAS HAD AIRBAGS REPLACED IN 2008 FROM A MINOR BUMP SO I AM REALLY CONCERNED ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND MY SAFETY..

Engine
Filed Dec 30, 2019123,456 milesGA

CATALYTIC CONVERTER SHOWS AS AN ERROR MESSAGE AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND WILL NEED LIKELY REPLACEMENT. THE HEATER DOES NOT WORK ON THE CAR, LIKELY DUE TO THE HEATER CORE. I JUST PURCHASED THE CAR AND IT HAD A RECENTLY REPLACED O2 SENSOR THAT WAS UNPLUGGED AS ITS INITIAL REASON FOR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. THERE MAY BE OTHER CARS WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS, AND I WANTED TO REPORT IT BECAUSE THESE ARE COSTLY REPAIRS.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 16, 2019150,000 milesID

WHEN FUELING THE VEHICLE THE GAS PUMP WILL SHUT OFF WHEN THE TANK IS FULL, BUT THE CAR'S FUEL TANK WILL BLOW GAS OUT OF THE FILLER TUBE AND DOWN THE SIDE OF THE CAR. IT DOES NOT MATTER IF YOU ARE FILLING THE CAR SLOW OR FAST. IT DOES THIS AT ALL GAS STATIONS SO IT IS NOT THE GAS STATION'S FUEL PUMPS.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 15, 2019PA

SOMETIMES WHEN ITS RAINING OR SNOWING WHEN MY CAR IS ON AT LEAST ONCE DURING MY TRIP MY CAR WILL TURN OFF EITHER WHEN I'M AT A STOP LIGHT/SIGN OR WHEN I BRAKE TO MAKE A TURN. I CAN SOMETIMES TELL WHEN ITS GOING TO TURN OFF BECAUSE THE CAR SPUTTERS (I DONT KNOW HOW ELSE TO DESCRIBE IT). EX YESTERDAY ON MY WAY TO WORK IT TURNED OFF AS I WAS AT A STOP LIGHT SO I TURNED IT OFF AND BACK ON MORE MORE ISSUES ON MY 10 MILE TRIP. ON MY WAY BACK HOME (CAR SAT IN THE RAIN ALL DAY) MY CAR TURNED OFF AS I WAS LEAVING THE PARKING LOT OF MY JOB. WHEN I SAY MY CAR TURNED OFF I MEAN IT LOSES ALL POWER SO THAT WHEN I PRESS MY GAS CAR DOESNT GO ANYWHERE I HAVE TO TURN IT OFF AND BACK ON TO CONTINUE MY TRIP

Electrical System
Filed Dec 11, 2019140,619 milesOH

EVERY TIME CAR IS STARTED AND DRIVEN IT STALLS AND/OR WILL COMPLETELY CUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. THE FUEL TANK ALSO HAS THE GAS LIGHT ON AND SAYS THE CAR HAS AN EMPTY TANK WHEN IN FACT THE CAR HAS A FULL TANK. (ON GOING ISSUE)

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 9, 2019120,000 milesUT

WHEN AT THE FUEL PUMP GETTING GAS IT OVERFILLS EVERY TIME. SAFETY HAZARD HAS A ROUGH IDLE WHEN SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT WITHOUT A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS COME UP FOR IT. SPEEDOMETER IS OFF DOOR HANDLE STICKS NOT ALLOWING ME TO CLOSE MY DOOR WHILE I'M IN IT HAVE TO PUSH THE HANDLE TOWARDS THE DOOR TO GET IT TO CLOSE. TRUNK DOESN'T CLOSE ALL THE WAY. ALSO WHEN OPENING AFTER IT RAINS IT LEAKS ALL OVER MY STUFF

Steering
Filed Dec 1, 2019111,132 milesMI

THE SUBFRAME / ENGINE CRADLE OF MY 20008 DODGE AVENGER IS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT WITH BIG HOLES IN IT. IT'S SO BRITTLE YOU CAN EASILY PUT A SCREW DRIVER THROUGH WHAT'S LEFT. THIS WAS DISCOVERED BY BELLE TIRE WHEN I WAS GETTING MY TIRES ROTATED. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER SINCE IT WAS NEW. THIS CAR WAS BROUGHT FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND INSPECTION EVERY 3,000 MILES SINCE NEW AT GOLLING CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI. THE CAR WAS ALSO PURCHASED FROM THIS SAME DEALERSHIP.

Power Train
Filed Nov 20, 2019WI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR DID NOT SHIFT OUT OF PARK WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT CALLED RUSS DARROW CHRYSLER, JEEP, DODGE, RAM OF WEST BEND AT 262-808-2700 (LOCATED AT 3210 W WASHINGTON ST, WEST BEND, WI 53095) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE TECHNICIAN RECOMMENDED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT PROVIDED.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 13, 201992,000 milesPR

BRAKES : I NEED TO REPLACE BRAKE PADS EVERY 3 MONTHS. (I RUN OVER 1600 MILES MONTHLY) A/C : THE PASSENGER SIDE BLOWS FREEZING COLD AIR AND THE DRIVERS SIDE BLOWS HOT. SUSPENSION : THE REAR KNUCKLE BUSHINGS FAILS TOO MUCH.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 5, 2019130,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE AVENGER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. HONDRU CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM OF ELIZABETHTOWN (LOCATED AT 2005 S MARKET ST, ELIZABETHTOWN, PA 17022, (717) 367-6644) WAS CONTACTED VIA PHONE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V152000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 22, 2019TX

WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE AIRBAG LIGHT APPEARD ON DASHBOARD. I TOOK THE CAR TO A DODGE DEALERSHIP AND THEY CONFIRMED THAT THE AIRBAG IS DEFECTIVE ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 11, 2019144,575 milesSC

I WAS DRIVING DOWN ROAD AFTER FILLING GAS TANK CAR STARTING SPITTING, GAS HAND FLOATING UP AND DOWN, LIGHT FLASHING,

Complaints 1-50 of 832, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2008
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20151000Routine
2014205130Above average
20135485100Above average
2012554370Above average
2011209320Above average
2010163380Routine
200967200Routine
2008 — this page8326261Fatalities reported
20072400Routine
200022510Routine
199962520Routine
199858610Routine
199783600Routine
1996157331Fatalities reported
1995196330Routine

Compare every Avenger year →

2008 Dodge Avenger: questions buyers ask

Is the 2008 Dodge Avenger a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Avenger years to avoid: owners filed 832 complaints, 4.6 times as many as a typical Avenger year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (22%).

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Dodge Avenger?

The transmission: 186 of the 832 complaints (22%) are about it. Owners most often say it shifts hard, late or not at all (26%), sets off warning lights on the dash (5%) and loses power (4%). The typical report comes at 52,390 miles.

How many recalls does the 2008 Dodge Avenger have?

6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 2, 2008. The largest, 08V152000, covered 180,963 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2008 Dodge Avenger problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 70,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 52,390 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2008 Dodge Avenger?

Yes, once. AQ10001 ("Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion Audit") was opened Nov 18, 2010 and closed Dec 28, 2015.

Are there service bulletins for the 2008 Dodge Avenger?

The manufacturer filed 59 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (12), the engine (12) and the electrical system (9). They include a warranty extension, 21-006-12 REV. A, filed Nov 3, 2012. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 2, 2008. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.