2012 Dodge Avenger

Above average

Owners filed 554 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 3 times.

Avoid One of the Dodge Avenger years to avoid: 3.1× the complaints of a typical Avenger year. Which Dodge Avenger years to avoid →

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

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

Most common 2012 Dodge Avenger problems

104 of the 554 complaints (19%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Unknown or Other112
001
Air Bags · airbags102
21022
Visibility/Wiper · wipers84
100
Electrical System68
130
Engine55
211
Power Train · transmission19
001
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control19
000
Service Brakes · brakes14
323
Structure › Body · body and frame12
212
Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System9
101

2012 Dodge Avenger airbags problems

19% of all complaints

104 of the 554 complaints are about the airbags. This is what owners describe:

  • shows an airbag warning light37% · 38
  • sets off warning lights on the dash26% · 27
  • did not deploy its airbags in a crash13% · 13

Share of the 104 airbags complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
60,000 mi
median of 59 reports
Peak year of filing
2017
34 airbags complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
22 · 0 · 23
in these complaints
Recalls on the airbags
“The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an auto repair shop where it was diagnosed that there was an open circuit in the front driver’s side air bag squib. The contact was informed that the air bag squib needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 22, 2024 at 227,000 miles
“Air bag light was coming on and off for drivers head rest air bag was taken in for that recall now same problem is happening again also have that awesome dodge defect were the heater blows hot on drivers side and ice ice cold on passenger side these are pretty major defects witch dodge has known about and should be held accountable”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 3, 2019 at 35,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2012: 10 complaints, 0 about the airbags'122013: 22 complaints, 2 about the airbags2014: 31 complaints, 15 about the airbags'142015: 53 complaints, 19 about the airbags2016: 44 complaints, 15 about the airbags'162017: 77 complaints, 34 about the airbags2018: 119 complaints, 7 about the airbags'182019: 91 complaints, 4 about the airbags2020: 55 complaints, 0 about the airbags'202021: 20 complaints, 3 about the airbags2022: 11 complaints, 0 about the airbags'222023: 5 complaints, 2 about the airbags2024: 8 complaints, 2 about the airbags'242025: 6 complaints, 1 about the airbags2026: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags'26Recall 13V282000 (airbags)Recall 16V668000 (seat belts)Recall 17V640000 (seats)NHTSA investigation PE19014
All complaintsAbout the airbagsRecall (red: the airbags)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2012 Avenger peaked in 2018, with 119 filed that year. Owners had filed 0 complaints about the airbags before the first recall that covers it, 13V282000 in July 2013; 104 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seats › Front Assembly › Head Restraint17V640000
Filed Oct 10, 2017363,930 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012 Jeep Liberty and 2012-2013 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger vehicles. 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.

Risk. If the active headrests do not deploy in certain rear-end crashes, the front seat occupants have an increased risk of injury.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ORC as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2017. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is T56.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner16V668000
Filed Sep 15, 20161,435,625 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.

Risk. If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.

Air Bags13V282000
Filed Jul 2, 2013442,320 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Sebring and 200 vehicles manufactured June 28, 2011, through December 13, 2012; model year 2011-2013 Dodge Avenger vehicles manufactured June 25, 2011, through January 14, 2013; model year 2011-2012 Dodge Nitro vehicles manufactured June 17, 2011, through December 15, 2011; and model year 2011-2012 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured June 17, 2011, through August 15, 2012. 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.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating the deployment of the active head restraints , their non-deployment could increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and 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. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N38.

All 3 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 2012 Avenger.

Active Head Rest Inadvertent DeploymentPreliminary evaluation PE19014Closed
Opened Sep 9, 2019Closed Feb 25, 2026seats

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE19014 on September 9, 2019, to investigate 128 consumer complaints alleging that the Active Head Rest (AHR) inadvertently deployed without the occurrence of a crash or other rear impact event in model year (MY) 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles.When ODI opened the investigation, ODI was aware of thirteen alleged injuries.A small number of Early Warning Reports identified driver and/or passenger front seat AHR inadvertent deployments without a rear impact event.Reported safety consequences resulting from the AHR deployments …

Technical service bulletins

108 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2012 Avenger. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 23engine 16electrical system 15transmission 13body and frame 8seats 7seat belts 4fuel system 3
U67 Combo Rev11Warranty extensionJun 18, 2026engine

Emissions Recall U67 - Catalytic Converter Efficiency - Dealer Notification (Revision 11)

2302720Warranty extensionNov 6, 2020seats

Active Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X84 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed. Customers may comment on the following:The AHR is deployed on one or both front seats and will not reset.

09-002-14 REV. BWarranty extensionDec 15, 2014engine

MIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Upon further investigation the Technician may find that any the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes have …

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2012 Dodge Avenger 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★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
Electrical System
Filed Sep 28, 2026FL

My 2012 dodge avenger will shut off whenever it feels like and you lose control of power steering. It feels like it’s not getting gas. It will crank back up when it feels like.The horn honks randomly.

Engine
Filed May 25, 2026KS

My car dies while im driving down the street, making it difficult to steer and qhen you try to restart it, sometimes it starts and some times it don't. But this is not the first time its happened it was just the latest

Electrical System
Filed Nov 16, 2025MO

Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. Problem persists through all cabin air modes, and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and passenger safety by failing to defrost/defog windows and keeping cabin tempuratures near or below freezing during cold weather (blowing cold air into the cabin).

Air Bags
Filed Aug 1, 2025IL

I was driving and I stopped at a stop sign. When I got ready to go, the car stalled and stopped and wouldn't start. After 30 minutes, it started but I ended up having it towed. My mechanic was able to replicate it after putting the car in the sun, running it for 10 minutes and then driving it. When the mechanic tried to look at it, he couldn't find anything to cause it to stop. I look it to the dealership. They were unable to replicate it or find the problem. It seems to happen when the car gets hot it stops without warning. Other people in the Dodge Avenger online group have experienced the same thing. The horn also keeps beeping without warning and the airbag sign is on. I think all of these items are connected. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Seats › Front Assembly › Head Restraint
Filed Apr 23, 2025CA

The contact called on behalf of her son who owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while her son was exiting a parking lot, upon driving over a speed bump, the passenger’s side head restraint unintendedly deployed. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Seats › Front Assembly › Head Restraint
Filed Feb 10, 2025125,900 milesTN

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact received notification of an undisclosed recall. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off, the front passenger’s side headrest deployed inadvertently. The contact stated that a handheld diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: U0184. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,900.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 2, 2025IL

My car has no heat on the passenger side causing window fogging this is the 3 time I have had the car in at the dealers and they say it's a clogged heater core I have the extended warranty. The dealer said the warranty is no longer covering heater cores when it should a recall with so many complaints. Barkau Chrysler Dodge jeep Ram at 700 East South Street Freeport IL 61032 1-815-232-5141. Please help as I have [XXX] and I can get frost bite and lose my feet or hands Not only is it a safety issue but a health issue can't upload my dealership note. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Seats › Front Assembly › Head Restraint
Filed Jan 2, 2025FL

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger's side headrest deployed inadvertently and struck the head of the front seat passenger. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under an undisclosed recall; however, the failure occurred. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and to Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Seminole County (750 Towne Center Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771), where a diagnostic testing fee was provided; however, the contact declined to pay the fee. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened; however, no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 30, 2024MN

Blank

Engine
Filed Oct 23, 2024137,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 137,000.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 22, 2024227,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an auto repair shop where it was diagnosed that there was an open circuit in the front driver’s side air bag squib. The contact was informed that the air bag squib needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 227,000.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 13, 2024CA

I have been unable to get the safety belt part for the recall. Additionally, it keeps saying I need to replace the gas cap and even the dealership cant help me.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 13, 2024FL

The vehicle has intermittent (brake) (ABS) and (Traction control) lights. I took the vehicle to Airport dodge in Orlando Florida. They advised the ABS module and pump are faulty however there are no repairs available at this time. The most concerning was they advised to continue to drive the vehicle without ABS.

Seats
Filed May 8, 2024117,206 milesAL

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V640000 (Seats, Air Bags). The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked at the residence, the contact entered the vehicle and observed that the headrest was uneven. The contact inspected the headrest from the rear of the vehicle where she observed that the headrest had separated but was still attached to the middle of the headrest. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 117,206.

Engine
Filed May 7, 2024FL

This is a HUGE SAFETY issue!!!!!! The engine randomly shuts off, which also causes the brakes to stop working and to have no power steering. Anything connected to the battery is fine (lights, radio, dashboard, etc.). myself, any passenger, and those around me are put at risk by the car shutting off in the middle of the road. Someone could hit me because I am not moving, or I am trying to get out of the way. or I might end up hitting someone else because the brakes don't work. this is a huge risk to life and limb. Noone other than myself has tried to see what is going on with my car, specifically. i have already put out a lot of money on parts that research says it COULD be. other people have had the same complaint about their Dodge vehicles. they have even taken them to many repair shops, with no one finding a real answer as to why this is happening. i would just like a car the safe to drive with my kids in it. as it is i fear for their safety if they were to ride in it. they are no warning lights or messages. I fear for my safety, the safety of my children, and the safety of others on the road around me. This car should really not be on the road without a definite answer to the problem.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 19, 2024NV

I was driving to the store and out of nowhere my car completely shut down the lights engine everything my steering wheel locked and I couldn't apply my breaks

Electrical System
Filed Dec 30, 2023AL

While driving for about 50miles, the electrical system failed, I lost power to the entire vehicle, steering was hard, brakes hard as well. as I pulled over, the car started back up. Next day car drove fine. Few days later the car cut off at red light in the middle of the intersection while other cars almost hitting me. Changed the fuel pump out because fuel pump would work at times. No one hurt, no incident report made. Car been intermittently cutting off after I think the car is running fine. No fault codes, no loose connections, no warning the car just cut off. I is becoming very dangerous and scary to drive but its the only vehicle i have and I have been spending money trying to figure this ghost out.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Jul 27, 2023NC

My driver side Headrest suddenly deployed while sitting at a red light. It struck me in the back of my head, this caused me to lurch forward and almost being hit by oncoming traffic. Dodge denied me replacement saying it was out of any warranty. They did not even look at it and told me it would cost me $850 to replace. No warning lights or signs that this was going to happen before it deployed. I still need to call my Insurance company to see what can be done.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Mar 25, 2023CA

Was hit from the rear emd amd air bags did not deploy. Back bumper was totally destroyed amd brakes go out fast

Seats › Front Assembly › Head Restraint
Filed Mar 7, 202397,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the front driver’s side headrest air bag deployed inadvertently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated no one was injured nor sought medical attention. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System
Filed Jan 3, 202366,122 milesCO

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH and various other speeds, the passenger’s side of the windshield defroster blower was only blowing cold air. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the HVAC system and blower needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 66,122.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 14, 2022OH

Little to no heat coming from vent on passenger side of cabin. Good hot heat coming from vents on driver side of cabin. Over the last 3 yrs the heater core has been replace 3 times once each year. Hot air came from all vents when replaced but as another comes around, no heat again on passenger side. Good heat on drivers side. Charlies dodge doesn't want to work on it any longer even though there is a valid warranty on the latest heater core replacement. Charlies dodge is claiming something inside the engine is coming apart and clogging the heater core. This makes no sense.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 7, 2022PA

Window Defrost and Passenger Side Heat/Air. Either while in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. This results in the passenger side of the front windshield being fogged up and low visibility. Problem persists through all cabin air modes and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and passenger safety by failing to defrost/defog windows and keeping cabin tempuratures near or below freezing during cold weather (blowing cold air into the cabin). I've looked online and there are many reports of this problem, including Dealer Star Case - S1207000008, and multiple dialogs on various forums (like https://www.avengerforumz.com/threads/passenger-side-no-heat-from-vents.60250/). There's a picture showing the sludge within the heater core - I'll copy and include that picture below. This is completely a manufacturing defect, and it affects the safety and drivability of the vehicle. Please feel free to contact me, if you need additional information. Thank you.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 19, 2022MN

Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. Problem persists through all cabin air modes, and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and passenger safety by failing to defrost/defog windows and keeping cabin tempuratures near or below freezing during cold weather (blowing cold air into the cabin).

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 18, 2022MI

Just got this car from the dealers used with only 97000 miles and first time I used the heat and I have no heat on right side of car just drivers side vent. Not even the center vents blow hot air. Please help

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 17, 2022IL

The right side of my cars heating does not work. There is only 1 vent (the driver left vent closest to the window) that actually blows luke warm air, but all the other vents blow ice cold air. This happens with the heater turn all the way up.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 24, 2022NC

Was driving and horn just start going off

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 4, 2022TX

Drivers side head rest deployed. We were in no accident. Head rest popped out coming home from work.

SeatsCrash1 injured
Filed Mar 28, 2022IL

On November 19, 2021 I was a passenger in the above vehicle, which was owned by my ex-husband. We were involved in a 3 car accident when another car cut us off while driving at the speed of 45 mph (posted), with cruise control set. Upon impact with the 2 other vehicles, my seat (the passenger side seat) broke and threw me forward into the front passenger side compartment. Even though the dash airbags deployed, I suffered a catastrophic injury to my leg/ankle that required immediate surgery---had I not had surgery, I would have never walked again. The above vehicle had to be towed due to being a total loss. When my ex-husband went to the salvage yard to retrieve his belongings out of the totaled car, he and his daughter noticed that the front passenger side seat was broke. The vehicle, I believe is no longer available for inspection, since my significant other gave the title to the salvage yard. There has been a recall affecting the seat restraint pretensioners, however, since I did not own said vehicle, I do not know if this one was included in that recall. According to my ex-husband, there was no warning, messages, or other symptoms of a problem before this accident occured. My whole life was changed that evening. I am facing huge medical costs for my recovery---my hospital bill alone was $186,500.00! This does not include follow up visits, physical therapy, and all the pain and suffering I have experienced!

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 11, 2022UT

Heater/Defrost, Yes it is available upon request. The defrost and passenger side heat only blows cold air I have changed everything possible and still the problem remains. I cannot see out of the windshield passenger side because it does not defrost. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance Etc. No warning I bought the car used it has always had this issue among many many others. I have read up on it and it seems like a significant amount of people that own this car have the same issue.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 21, 2022NY

Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. Problem persists through all cabin air modes, and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and passenger safety by failing to defrost/defog windows and keeping cabin temperatures near or below freezing during cold weather (blowing cold air into the cabin).

Electrical System
Filed Jan 20, 2022PA

The vehicle will shut off in the middle of driving and you lose complete power to the vehicle. Then after it sits for a few hours it will start back up with no issue. I had my vehicle at the dodge dealership 2 times for them to tell me they can't figure it out and that they get alot of avengers with the same issue. But since it's not throwing a code they aren't able to fix it. I also explained that when it shuts off when you are trying to start the car it sounds like it is going to start but it just keeps turning over but won't start and the lightening bolt light comes on at that time. The dealership said they checked everything to see if it was my battery or alternator but everything they checked was good. They said this is a known problem with these cars and the only thing they can advise is to get rid if the vehicle because there isn't a fix for it. Someone is going to get hurt from this issue I have almost been hit numerous times when the vehicle shuts off with no warning. This has been happening a few times a year the whole time I have had this vehicle

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 31, 2021KS

Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. Problem persists through all cabin air modes, and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and passenger safety by failing to defrost/defog windows and keeping cabin tempuratures near or below freezing during cold weather (blowing cold air into the cabin)."

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Dec 19, 2021KY

Air Bags from Steering Wheel did not deploy in a at fault rear end accident. Driver suffered from neck and back injuries. Problem has not been inspected. No warning lamps.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 9, 2021MI

The heater core went again this is the 2nd one, it's a very scary thing when you can't get your windows passenger side defrosted. I live in Michigan and I have to have heat. Thank you Tom smith

Electrical System
Filed Dec 4, 2021TX

My TIPM is failing. Due to this, my vehicle stalls randomly with no repair codes being shown after stalling. Everything from the battery to the catalytic converter has been replaced to no avail. I even almost was killed on the freeway coming home from work one morning because the vehicle stalled after running fine for a couple of weeks. This has been going on for almost a year and I have replaced so many things on this car I basically should have just cut my losses and purchased a new one.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 23, 2021AL

It seems to be a common issue that I'm experiencing as well. When I turn the heat on it only blows hot on the driver side. So depending on the weather conditions, it may completely fog up the passenger side of my window. Making it dangerous for driving when you're trying to defrost a window with cold air.

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 22, 2021ND

Power steering pressure line keeps breaking or coming off

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 19, 2021IA

Passenger side blows cold air. Looks like a known issue that needs recalled

Exterior Lighting
Filed Sep 30, 2021WA

My wipers stop in the middle of the windshield when it’s pouring outside. Now my horn won’t turn off! I was told that it’s the TIPM and it’s a known issue with my car.

Lane Departure › Assist
Filed Sep 17, 2021OH

Yggg

Air Bags
Filed Jul 6, 2021284,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while 35 MPH, the passenger’s side air bag deployed without incident or warning. The contact was not injured. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed nor repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 284,000.

Seats
Filed Jun 27, 2021MI

The seats move around as if they are not bolted down properly. Any speed if you hit a small bump or so much as move other then straight it’s extremely noticeable. I don’t think it is safe and my kids are in this car daily and I was hoping a recall would have already been called on this because I know I’m mot the only one with this issue with both front seats moving around as if it’s a carnival ride. And the cruise control stopped working in 2016. Also has always made a weird sound under the hood and come to find out I have had a bad transmission the whole time I have owned this car, also a common issue I have heard from MANY People. Also these cars have several different censor problems that keep having to be replaced as well as energy draining batteries more than they should. The hoses and injectors also have been a major problem. I thought I just got unlucky with my car but everyone I know has soooo many problems with these cars it’s actually crazy they didn’t stop making them sooner. I’m the only driver and owner of this car and drive like a grandma I have been told so I do know it’s not how I have been with the car, also regular oil changes and maintenance as needed on top of thousands to keep her running as I bought it brand new and refuse to let it die on me after it’s paid off.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 4, 2021180,000 milesAL

MY FUEL SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING CORRECTLY, THE FUEL GAUGE WILL NOT MEASURE HOW MUCH GAS IS IN CAR WHEN DRIVING. A RECALL STARTED 07/26/ 2007 FOR SAME ISSUE BY AIR TEX. THEY WERE REPLACING GAS PUMP. PHONE # GIVEN FOR CONTACT IS NOT VALID, CAN YOU HELP.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 12, 2021115,000 milesSD

MY CAR KEEPS BLOWING ROAD DUST OUT OF ALL THE VENTS WHEN I'M DRIVING DOWN A GRAVEL ROAD DOESN'T MATTER THE SPEED AND IT DOESN'T MATTER IF THE HEATER AND A/C ARE ON OR OFF. WHEN I TURN ON MY HEATER/A/C IT RUNS THROUGH THE DEFROST, FACE VENTS, AND FLOORS VENTS, BEFORE IT WILL FINALLY SETTLE ON THE AREA I HAVE IT SET AT. DODGE REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THERE'S A PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO A RECALL. THEY KNOW IT STEMS FROM THE HEATER CORE NOT BEING PROPERLY CLEANED BEFORE INSTALLING IT IN THE VEHICLE.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 1, 202179,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEATER FAILED TO DISTRIBUTE AIR AND THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO SEE OUT THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ACTUATOR, PANEL, AND KNOB NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WALLY ARMOUR CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (1950 W STATE ST, ALLIANCE, OH 44601, (330) 422-8602) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS SLUDGE IN THE HEATER CORE. THE HEATER CORE, THERMOSTAT AND ACTUATOR WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. AFTER A SECONDARY DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS PERFORMED, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.

Power Train
Filed Feb 24, 202176,000 milesNC

I HAVE A 2012 DODGE AVENGER WITH APPROXIMATELY 76200 MILES ON IT. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A STOP LIGHT MY TRANSMISSION MADE A CLUNKING SOUND AND MY VEHICLE WOULD ONLY GO ABOUT 30 MILES PER HOUR BUT THE RPMS BUT JUMP UP TO ABOUT 7000 AND STAY THERE. I WAS ON A FOUR LANE ROADWAY GOING THROUGH A CITY WHEN THIS HAPPENED. ENDED UP MY TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED WITH 76,000 MILES ON MY VEHICLE. TRANSMISSION ISSUES SEEM TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE DODGE AVENGERS. AND OF COURSE WHEN I CALLED DODGE CUSTOMER CARE THEY STATED THEY CAN DO NOTHING FOR ME ON ANY KIND OF REIMBURSEMENT. TRANSMISSIONS SHOULD LAST LONGER THAN 76000 MILES! VERY DISAPPOINTED IN DODGE CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 18, 2021108,442 milesAZ

"WINDOW DEFROST AND PASSENGER HEAT /AIR. WHILE EITHER IN MOTION OR WHILE DRIVING, NO HEATED AIR EXITS THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER, NOR THE PASSENGER WINDOW DEFROST, LOWER AND CENTER CONSOLE VENTS. HEATED AIR ONLY EXITS THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD AND DRIVER'S SIDE DASH VENTS. PROBLEM PERSISTS THROUGH ALL CABIN AIR MODES, AND CIRCULATIONS. THIS SAFETY ISSUE EFFECTS VISIBILITY AND PASSENGER SAFETY BY FAILING TO DEFROST/DEFOG WINDOWS AND KEEPING CABIN TEMPURATURES NEAR OR BELOW FREEZING DURING COLD WEATHER (BLOWING COLD AIR INTO THE CABIN)."

Electrical System
Filed Jan 25, 2021122,630 milesME

VEHICLE IN LIMP MODE AND WON'T SHIFT GEARS PROPERTY. STARTED AFTER A PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE HAD NO IDEA THAT THIS WAS GOING TO BE A ISSUE UNTIL I HAD IT FOR ABOUT A WEEK AND ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THEN STARTED THE LIMP MODE AND THEN DRIVING IT IS VERY DANGEROUS. BECAUSE IT WON'T CHANGE GEAR AND GOING UP A HILL IS IMPOSSIBLE WHEN IT WON'T CHANGE GEARS. OR SPEED UP.. IT SLOWS DOWN INSTEAD.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 21, 2021CO

MY 2012 DODGE AVENGER HAS CONTINUED ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS, THE FIRST IS THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER WINDOWS. THEY WON'T ROLL DOWN OR ONCE DOWN WON'T ROLL UP. SECOND MY INTERIOR LIGHTS WILL ALL OF A SUDDEN TURN ON BY THEMSELVES AND FLICKER, THIRD, FLICKERING. I HAVE TRIED REPLACING THESE POSSIBLE BROKEN PARTS BUT IT HASN'T FIXED THE PROBLEMS.

Complaints 1-50 of 554, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2008
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20151000Routine
2014205130Above average
20135485100Above average
2012 — this page554370Above average
2011209320Above average
2010163380Routine
200967200Routine
20088326261Fatalities reported
20072400Routine
200022510Routine
199962520Routine
199858610Routine
199783600Routine
1996157331Fatalities reported
1995196330Routine

Compare every Avenger year →

2012 Dodge Avenger: questions buyers ask

Is the 2012 Dodge Avenger a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Avenger years to avoid: owners filed 554 complaints, 3.1 times as many as a typical Avenger year. The most common complaint is about the airbags (19%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 Dodge Avenger?

The airbags: 104 of the 554 complaints (19%) are about it. Owners most often say it shows an airbag warning light (37%), sets off warning lights on the dash (26%) and did not deploy its airbags in a crash (13%). The typical report comes at 60,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2012 Dodge Avenger have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 10, 2017. The largest, 16V668000, covered 1,435,625 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2012 Dodge Avenger problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 70,000 miles. For the airbags the midpoint is 60,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2012 Dodge Avenger?

Yes, once. PE19014 ("Active Head Rest Inadvertent Deployment") was opened Sep 9, 2019 and closed Feb 25, 2026.

Are there service bulletins for the 2012 Dodge Avenger?

The manufacturer filed 108 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (16), the electrical system (15) and the transmission (13). They include a warranty extension, U67 Combo Rev11, filed Jun 18, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

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: Oct 10, 2017. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.