2011 Dodge Nitro

Routine

Owners filed 122 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 3 times.

One of the better Dodge Nitro years: fewer complaints than most, without an unusual share of serious ones. Which Dodge Nitro years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
61,500 milesMedian miles at failure

91 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 90,000–105,000 miles.

Most common 2011 Dodge Nitro problems

38 of the 122 complaints (31%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System38
010
Air Bags · airbags22
306
Power Train · transmission10
000
Engine9
000
Service Brakes · brakes7
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system7
000
Unknown or Other5
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control5
000
Visibility/Wiper · wipers2
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration2
100

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module20V396000
Filed Jul 7, 2020925,239 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.

Risk. Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.

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.

Steering › Column11V315000
Filed Jun 8, 201111,096 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011DODGE JOURNEY, JEEP WRANGLER, CHRYSLER 200, CHRYSLER 200 CONVERTIBLE, DODGE AVENGER, DODGE NITRO, JEEP LIBERTY, DODGE CALIBER, JEEP COMPASS, JEEP PATRIOT, DODGE GRAND CARAVAN AND CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A MISSING OR INCORRECTLY INSTALLED STEERING COLUMN PIVOT RIVET.

Risk. A MISSING OR INCORRECTLY INSTALLED RIVET COULD COMPROMISE THE ABILITY OF THE STEERING COLUMN TO SUPPORT THE OCCUPANT LOADS IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL CRASH, DECREASING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE FRONTAL IMPACT SAFETY SYSTEM. AS A RESULT, THE CONDITION MAY INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR INJURY IN A FRONTAL CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR RIVET PRESENCE AND ALIGNMENT AND REPAIR THE STEERING COLUMN PIVOT AS REQUIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 4, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Feb 3, 2026126,174 milesCA

The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that the vehicle frequently experienced electrical malfunctions, and the interior lights and windshield wipers would activate spontaneously. The “TEM” warning light was illuminated, and the radio display lights unexpectedly illuminated. Additionally, activating the turn signals unintendedly caused the wipers to activate, and the air bag warning light would remain illuminated. While the vehicle was turned off, the warning lights continued flashing intermittently. The dealer was notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 126,174.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 9, 2024AR

I am experiencing electrical issues with my 2011 Dodge Nitro SXT. Despite replacing the alternator and battery, the SUV continues to have operational problems. Additionally, I replaced the TMP. I subsequently took the vehicle to a local mechanical shop, where it was confirmed that the issue lies with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). I have read about a recall related to electrical issues in the Nitro, and I would like to inquire about the possibility of obtaining reimbursement. Thank you for your assistance.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 4, 2023103,000 milesDC

The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost electrical and motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure had since become a regular occurrence. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 103,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 11, 2023MI

Airbags: This vehicle has had a recall for a "Ram" emblem being placed over the airbag such that it becomes a projectile in an airbag depleyment. Dodge makes it very difficult to avail of getting it removed. I am not close to the dealership, I am very busy and somewhat disabled. Since the first notice arrived in the mail-- maybe three years ago-- I have returned the notices with a request for them to send a tech to my home and make the repair. I see there has been at least one death due to this obvious flaw, butthey have not cared enough to answer. Why should I take a day so that they can fix this deadly "extra feature" of shrapnel being placed over an explosive? Electrical: This is a serious safety issue that Dodge will not recognize or even discuss. Getting the window back up is a matter of finessing the "up" switch every which way, multiple attempts required (switch has now fallen out). Very distracting, after going through a toll booth after dark and 15 degrees. You can't stop and F with it, you have to do it on the move. It can take as long as five minutes to get it back up (Window now completely disabled). They will do anything to save seventeen cents per car, who cares if it makes it unsafe for the owner. Not Dodge! I wrote to Dodge (no reply), then the MI Attorney General about this, they responded "We have written to this manufacturer twice and have not received a response". Dodge takes no responsibility for their shoddy work. We pay, we die, they keep doing what the

Air Bags
Filed Dec 29, 2022GA

Airbag symbol keeps jumping on and dinging and their is a malfunctioning of the airbag which showed after being but on a machine. The tire even when changed or applying air the light still jumps on like it’ has low air pressure. And the electrical the door lock n unlock is backwards lock will be unlock and unlock is locked. Only 3 doors will lock automatically.

Power Train
Filed Feb 10, 2022TX

While my husband was driving home from work, the drive shaft of our vehicle completely snapped at 50mph causing him to come to a complete stop. There is a recall specially specially this on the 2008 models and after this incident we believe it should for the 2011s also.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 29, 2022TN

Loss of power, engine completely shut off at a redlight

Steering
Filed Jan 18, 2022118,000 milesOH

The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Dodge Nitro. The contact stated that while his daughter was starting the vehicle, the steering wheel inadvertently lost power steering functionality. Additionally, the windshield wipers remained operational after the windshield wiper button was disengaged. The contact's daughter was also unable to move the gear shifter from PARK to DRIVE. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

Steering
Filed Jan 13, 2022TX

My car is always acting as if it is going to flip or gets locked up, even in slow speeds below the speed limit. I am a single mom, not a speed racer.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 30, 2021TN

I purchased a 2011 Dodge Nitro SUV in March 2021 from a dealer with all recall information. I contacted online about recall and they set-up to take this vehicle to a Dodge dealer to have required recall work done. I took this vehicle to this dealer and on this INVOICE from dealer repair it states: Recall/ CSN 1 [Safety Recall W09 – Driver Air Bag Emblem] CAUSE: F 19W09183 Safety Recall W 09 Driver Airbag Emblem – Remove Remove Driver Airbag Emblem (2 -Skilled) 997471W FC: Part#: Count: Claim Type: W AUTH CODE: Parts: 0.00Labor: 0.00Other: 0.00Total Line B:0.00 Removed DAB emblem 19 – WO -91 – 83 After this job was completed, I was told by this dealer that It might take 6 months for a replacement part to come available. I will be notified by the recall company when a new part to be place in this vehicle. Now, when I enter this same vehicle VIN it states as 0 recalls. My airbag concern light on my dash remains on and sometimes alerts me by sound! Nothing has been replaced for over 7 months and now it shows no recalls! I have both original Invoice pages from this dealer still stapled together and scanned to email if needed! My vehicle would not pass inspection if needed, because of this issue and safety concerns. [XXX] Roane County, TN INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Electrical System
Filed Jun 24, 2021FL

The horn started blowing randomly, Pulled the negative battery connector as recommended to reset TIPM. The horn continued to go off pulled the fuses as recommended. Was told if it kills the battery the TIMP needs to be replaced. That is a common issue for this year model vehicle. Called about a recall the recall is for vehicles manufacturer from 07/17/2011 to 12/2011. My truck was manufactured three days prior to this recall time frame. I believe my vehicle is affected by the faulty TIPM as well. I would like the part to be covered under the recall.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 7, 2021NV

When fueling the vehicle gas will spew out after the pump has shut off. I've tried many different things to try and stop this issue. If I fill the tank very slowly it will sometimes not spew or it may cut down on the amount spewed, but it has not made the issue stop. This really is dangerous and ridiculous. From my online research into the issue, it appears to be common with this vehicle. Although an easy, definitive reason was not given. Please address this. Thank you.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 21, 2021KS

DATE OF INCIDENT: 05202021 SPEED: VEHICLE PARKED/DRIVING 30 MPH MILEAGE: 110000 VEHICLE HORN SOUNDED NUMEROUS TIMES ON OWN. VEHICLE PARKED AND KEY NOT IN IGNITION. VEHICLE ALSO SOUNDED WHILE IN ON POSITION AT STOP LIGHT AND IN ON POSITION WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH. VEHICLE DOES THIS ON OWN WITHOUT PROMPTING AND CAN ONLY BE STOPPED BY DISCONNECTION OF THE BATTERY.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 9, 2021147,000 milesTN

THE ALARM GOES OFF FOR MAYBE 1 TO 4 SECONDS AT ANY TIME IT'S PARKED AND THE HORN BLOWS TIME TO TIME WITHOUT ME TOUCHING IT WHILE DRIVING.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 19, 2021NC

MY SUV KEEP HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE ELECTRICAL ISSUES, FIRST IT STARTED WITH THE RADIO AND THEN MY BRAKE LIGHT KEEP BOWING AND WE REPLACED THE CIRCUIT BOARD AND BULPS AND WITHIN THREE DAYS THEY BLOWED AGAIN AND AT NIGHT WHEN I TURN MY LIGHTS ON MY BRAKE LIGHTS OR TURN SIGNALS DO NOT WORK,

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 26, 202165,000 milesVA

AFTER DEALERSHIP REMOVED THE EMBLEM FROM THE STEERING WHEEL DUE TO THE RECALL, THE HORN WOULD START TO BLOW ON ITS OWN FOR NO APPARENT REASON AND STAY ON. IT WOULD SHUT OFF AND THEN A FEW MOMENTS LATER START TO BLOW AGAIN. THE DEALERSHIPS ANSWER WAS TO DISCONNECT MY HORN AND SEND ME ON MY WAY. I AM NOW DRIVING IN A VEHICLE THAT WILL NOT PASS THE REQUIRED STATE INSPECTION. IT IS ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD!! THE DEALERSHIP INFORMED ME THAT UNTIL THE PARTS CAME IN TO FINISH THE RECALL ON MY VEHICLE I WOULD HAVE TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE THIS WAY. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE!!

Air BagsCrash
Filed Aug 19, 2020143,220 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS GIRLFRIEND WAS DRIVING AT 15-20 MPH, SHE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF A UNKNOWN TRUCK. AS A RESULT, THE CROSS MEMBER DETACHED FROM VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT FILED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,220.

Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights
Filed Jul 15, 202090,000 milesMD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY HIS WIFE THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE TAIL LIGHT WAS INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE BULBS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 9, 2020147,000 milesKS

THE CAR JUST TURNED OFF ON ITS OWN AS I WAS DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT ABOUT 15 MPH.

Electrical System
Filed May 21, 2020PR

MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO START, WHILE DRIVING AT THE HIGHWAY OR AT A LIGHT IT SLOW DOWN AS IF GOING TO SHUTS OFF, REAR WINDOWS NOT WORKING, DOORS POWER LOCKS INTERMITTENT. *TR

Air Bags
Filed Mar 18, 2020TX

THE AIR BAG LIGHTS COMES ON AND OFF CONSTANTLY.

Air Bags2 injured
Filed Nov 22, 2019142,022 milesIN

I WAS STOPPED AT A INTERSECTION WAITING FOR TRAFFIC TO PASS ON A CITY STREET, AS I PRESSED THE GAS PEDAL TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE HAD A LOUD EXPLOSION NOISE AND FELT AS IF I WAS REAR ENDED, IMMEDIATELY THE SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED ON ME AND MY TWO SONS AND OBJECTS FLEW EVERYWHERE, THE TRUCK IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS AS I COULDN'T CONTROL OR STOP IT. I PULLED THE EMERGENCY BREAKS AND JUMPED OUT TO SEE MY DRIVE SHAFT HAD EXPLODED UNDERNEATH THE TRUCK, THE AMBULANCE CAME TO TAKE MY SON TO THE ER BECAUSE THE AIRBAGS WENT OFF CAUSING HIM TO HAVE SEVERE COLLAR BONE PAIN. I CONTACTED INSURANCE COMPANY THIS MORNING AND WAITING TO HEAR WHO'S COVERING WHAT. I/MY SON IS IN SEVERE PAIN AND SHOCKED AS TO WHY THIS WASN'T RECALLED WITH THE OTHER NITRO YEARS. THIS COULD'VE BEEN FATAL, I NEED ANSWERS A.S.A.P.*DT*JB

Electrical System
Filed Nov 14, 201998,000 milesWY

3 WEEKS AFTER HAVING MY 2011 DODGE NITRO DETENATOR WOULD STICK BETWEEN GEARS, AT BOTH SLOW AND HIGH SPEEDS AND I WAS BURNNING THROUGH GAS WAY TOO FAST. NISSIAN FOUND MY TANSMITTION OIL TO BE BLACK, I PAID FOR FLUSH AND TOLD IT WAS GOOD TO GO. NEXT DAY THE CAR DIED, THE THROTTLE BODY INDICATOR CAME ON, THIS WAS FIXED, STILL BURNING THROUGH GAS! COUPLE WEEKS LATER NOW IT SOUNDS LIKE A DISEL ENGINE IDLE, I CAN NOT AFFORD ALL THESE PROBLEMS. I FOUND SEVERAL OWNERS OF THIS CAR HAVE HAD SAME PROBLEMS ALONG WITH ELECTRICAL AS I HAVE HAD AS WELL, MY ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CUTS OUT RANDOMLY AND A FEW TIMES MY KIDS AND I HAVE SMELT WHAT SEEMED TO BE THAT OF BURNT RUBBER OR SOMETHING. IM VERY DISPLEASED AND UPSET WITH MY PURCHASE.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 6, 20196,000 milesNE

ABOUT A YEAR AGO THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT FLASHED UP ON THE DASH EVERYTIME I START THE VEHICLE. THE CODE FLASHED UP FOR NO REASON. WE DID NOT HAVE AN ACCIDENT NOR RUNNING OVER A RUT. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE EVEN THOUGH IT IT ISN'T DUE FOR A RECALL. I THINK IT IS A MODULE ISSUE, ACCORDING TO THE SHEET FROM CHRYSLER MY NITRO IS RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RECALL MODEL YEAR. IT HAPPENED WHEN WE DRIVING ON A SMOOTH CITY STREET. MY NITRO IS A DISASTER...I REPLACED THE CCM BECAUSE OF A CHARGING ISSUE MYSELF. I ALSO WILL PROBABLY HAVE TO AIRBAG MODULE MYSELF. I AM AN AIRCRAFT AND MARINE MECHANIC SO IT IS NO BIG DEAL IF I HAVE TO.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 2, 2019140,000 milesTX

FOR THE PAST YEAR OR SO THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR USUALLY WHILE BRAKING AND HITTING A BUMP. BRAKES WILL EVENTUALLY GO BACK TO NORMAL SOMETIMES AFTER A FEW MINUTES AND SOMETIMES AFTER A FEW HOURS. PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL DOES NOT HELP. UNSAFE BECAUSE NEVER KNOW WHEN IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN AND BRAKING POWER IS GREATLY REDUCING DURING THESE EVENTS. THIS HAPPENS EVERY FEW MONTHS OR SO.

Engine
Filed Oct 31, 201988,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. AFTER THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN A SHORT DISTANCE AND PARKED, IT WAS UNABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND THEN TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 14, 2019117,200 milesHI

MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON BECUASE OF THE ROLLOVER SENSOR ISSUE.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 2, 201990,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ERRONEOUSLY ACTIVATED. DURING THE FAILURE, THE TURN SIGNALS BECAME INOPERABLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DETERMINED. FREEDOM DODGE (815 EAST CAMP WISDOM RD, DUNCANVILLE, TX) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.

Power Train
Filed Jul 19, 201920,747 milesDC

TL* THE CONSUMER OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION TRANSFER CASE SEAL LEAKED. THE CONSUMER HAD THE TRANSMISSION TRANSFER CASE SEAL REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND FITZGERALD AUTO MALL LEXINGTON PARK (2231 THREE NOTCH ROAD, LEXINGTON PARK, MD 20653, 301-737-0088) TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION TRANSFER CASE SEALS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE CORRECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,747. *BF *AS

Power Train
Filed May 20, 2019154,569 milesTX

THE HEAT SHIELDING UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE DISLODGED IN A FEW PLACES CAUSING IT TO RUB AGAINST THE DRIVE SHAFT. IT WASN'T LOUD SO I DIDN'T NOTICE IT UNTIL I WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT AND MY DRIVE SHAFT BROKE IN 2 PIECES. I BACKED OUT OF MY PARKING PLACE AND WHEN I SHIFTED FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE, IT SNAPPED. THIS WAS RECALLED ON CERTAIN 2007-2008 DODGE NITROS, BUT NOT ON THE 2011. HAD I BEEN IN MOTION AND NOT AT A STAND STILL, IT COULD HAVE BEEN VERY BAD.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 9, 2019AZ

THE BRAKES GIVE OUT WHEN HITTING A POTHOLE, SOMETIMES IT JUST GOES OUT.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 17, 201994,669 milesVA

WAS DRIVING UP MECHANICSVILLE TURNPIKE IN RICHMOND,VA. HEADING HOME WHEN VEHICLE CUT OFF WITHOUT ANY WARNING THEN HAD TO TRY AND START IT BACK UP AFTER 3CTRIES , BEEN COMPLAINING AND GETTING BRAKES REPAIRED SINCE 2016 HAVE BEEN COMPLAINING ABOUT REAR DOUBLE CLICKING SINCE 2016

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jan 14, 201993,600 milesMD

PURCHASED 2011 NITRO. HIGH SPEED CAN COMMUNICATION BUS, CODE U0002. DASH CLUSTER FAULTS ALL LIGHT UPWITH WARNING BELL ENGAGING WHEN PULLING OFF OR TURNING. TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT ON, ENGINE LIGHT ON, PULL OFF FROM STOP LIGHT AND THE VEHICLE IS STUCK IN FIRST GEAR. HEARING ELECTRIC GEAR SOUND WHEN VEHICLE IS SHUT OFF.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 21, 2018160,000 milesOH

WHILE DRIVING, WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED AFTER HITTING A POTHOLE OR INDENTION IN THE ROAD, THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY STOPS. BRAKES WILL EVENTUALLY COME BACK UP TO NORMAL POSITION. THIS HAS HAPPENED EXITING THE FREEWAY, AND ON CITY STREETS.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 16, 2018130,000 milesAE

REGARDLESS OF WHICH GAS STATION/PUMP, DURING REFUEL GAS WILL OVERFLOW AND SPRAY ONTO THE GROUND, CAR, AND OPERATOR. VEHICLE ALWAYS STATIONARY.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 2, 2018131,141 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE IGNITION FAILED TO ENGAGE WHEN PROMPTED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WITHIN ONE WEEK. THE CONTACT INSERTED THE IGNITION KEY AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE CONTACT EXPLAINED THAT THE SEVERITY OF THE FAILURE BECAME INCREASINGLY WORSE OVER A PERIOD OF ONE WEEK. IN ADDITION, AFTER OPENING AND/OR CLOSING ANY OF THE FOUR DOORS ON THE VEHICLE, THE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO CORRECT THE FAILURE BY DISCONNECTING THE BATTERY CABLES. UPON RECONNECTING THE BATTERY CABLES, THE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDED ONCE AGAIN. FURTHERMORE, THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE TOTALLY INTEGRATED POWER MODULE FAILED TO DISPLAY THE TIRE PRESSURE. A DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,141.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 29, 201814,000 milesPA

THE TPC POWER BOX THAT HAS ALL THE FUSES IN IT. IS MALFUNCTIONING CAUSING THE WIPERS FOUR WAY FLASHER AND HORN ,HEADLIGHTS CHIMES, 44 SWITCH AND ALL THE DASH SENSORS TO GO OFF. WHICH IS CAUSING THE TRANSMISSION TO STUDDED WHEN SHIFTING IT IS A MAJOR PEOBLEM

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 15, 2018CA

THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE BROKE. I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING FORUMS AND IT HAS HAPPENED A LOT. I ALSO CALLED DODGE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY GAVE ME YOUR NUMBER.

Power Train
Filed Aug 15, 201861,000 milesMA

I BOUGHT MY NITRO ON DEC 29, 2017 FROM HADDAD TOYOTA IN PITTSFIELD MA I HAVE PUT 4648 MILES ON SINCE DRIVING IT OFF THE LOT. I ASKED THE SERVICE DEPT ABOUT THE TEMP. GAUGE WHEN I WENT THERE FOR AN AUTO START AND THEY STATED IT WAS FINE. THURSDAY THE TEMP LIGHT LIT UP ON THE DASH WHEN I WAS ALMOST 2 MILES HOME, SO I CAME HOME, PARKED IT IN THE GARAGE AS USUAL BUT HAD TO OPEN THE HOOD BECAUSE OF THE SMELL, HEAT AND WHAT ALMOST LOOKED LIKE SMOKE. I CALLED HADDADS AND LEFT A MESSAGE WITH THE SERVICE DEPT. ON MONDAY, WHICH IS THE NEXT TIME I DROVE IT, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON ABOUT 10 MILES FROM MY HOUSE. I DECIDED TO PULL INTO MY HUSBANDS WORK 8 MILES AWAY, BUT BEFORE I REACHED THE DRIVEWAY, THE TEMP LIGHT CAME BACK ON. WE LEFT THE DOGE THERE OVERNIGHT, AS I WAS TOO SCARED TO DRIVE IT HOME. TUESDAY I CALLED HADDADS SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE SERVICE MAN THAT HELPED ME WHEN I WAS THERE LAST.HE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. WE HAVE A READER AND AT WORK MY HUSBAND PLUGGED IT IN AND GOT THESE CODES 1- P0740 ' TORQ CONVERTER CLUTCH CIRCUIT/OPEN 2- P0732 - GEAR2 INCORRECT RATIO 3- P0868 - TRANSMISSION FLUID PRESSURE LOW SO I IMMEDIATE CALLED AGAIN AND THE SERVICE DEPT. TOLD ME I CAN DRIVE IT THERE 30 MILES AS LONG AS EITHER LIGHT WASN'T BLINKING. SO THIS AFTERNOON, NEEDLESS TO SAY, I MADE IT 3 HOUSES DOWN THE ROAD AND THE CAR GAS PEDAL STOPPED WORKING WHILE IN MOTION! I CALLED AAA AND I AM HAVING IT TOWED TO HADDAD TOYOTA. I SPOKE WITH THE SERVICE MAN PAT AND HE IS AWARE OF MY SITUATION AND IS EXPECTI

Power Train
Filed Aug 13, 2018130,000 milesOK

WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET, APPROXIMATELY 40 MILES PER HOUR, THE DRIVE SHAFT BROKE OFF COMPLETELY. TOWED TO FOWLER JEEP DODGE ON I-240 IN OKLAHOMA CITY. SERVICE ADVISOR INDICATED THE HEAT SHIELD BECAME LOOSE AND CAUSED THE DRIVE SHAFT TO BREAK. THIS IS A RECALL ISSUE FOR PRIOR MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 DODGE NITRO. I CALLED BOTH CHRYSLER AND DODGE HOTLINES RELATIVE TO THE N10 RECALL WITH FAULTY HEAT SHIELDS CAUSING THE DRIVE SHAFT TO SPONTANEOUSLY BREAK. I WAS TOLD IT WAS UP TO THE DEALERSHIP AREA MANAGER TO DECIDE IF THIS ISSUE WOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE DODGE HOTLINE AGENT CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND THEN INFORMED ME THAT THE MECHANICAL ERROR WOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED IN THE RECALL SO THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT EVEN CALL THE AREA MANAGER. I HAD THE CAR TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO ALSO SAID A FAULTY HEAT SHIELD CAME LOOSE, WAS RUBBING ON THE DRIVE SHAFT CAUSING IT TO BREAK; WHICH IS THE EXACT N10 CHRYSLER RECALL FOR 2007-2008 DODGE NITRO. AS I HAVE A MODEL YEAR 2011, OBVIOUSLY THE ISSUE HAD NOT BEEN FIXED.

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
Filed Aug 8, 2018230,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE HORN INDEPENDENTLY ENGAGED. ALSO, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED TO DEACTIVATE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MAC HAIK DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (11000 NORTH FREEWAY, HOUSTON, TX 77037, (281) 447-9500), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. HOWEVER, THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE PRESSURE PLATE IN THE AIR BAG AREA WAS CAUSING THE FAILURE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 11, 2018100,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT DID NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE ABS AND AIR BAG WARNING INDICATORS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED MAC HAIK DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (12111 KATY FWY, HOUSTON, TX 77079, (713) 263-3070) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD NO RECALLS; THEREFORE, THEY COULD NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 6, 201840,000 milesFL

TOTAL TIPM FAILURE! AFTER AT LEAST A DOZEN INCIDENTS OF THE FACTORY ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM SOUNDING (AT REST IN MY DRIVEWAY, DRIVING IN TRAFFIC), AND SEVERAL TRIPS TO JIM BROWNE CITRUS CHRYSLER/DODGE/JEEP IN DADE CITY, FL WHERE IT WAS UN OR MIS-DIAGNOSED I WAS CHARGED FOR EVERY DIME OF UNNEEDED PARTS AND LABOR WHICH I PAID. THE ONLY OPTION I HAD WAS TO UNHOOK THE BATTERY TO STOP THE BLARING AND THE LIGHT SHOW THROUGHOUT MY CAR. THE FINAL TIME, THE TIPM WAS REPLACED AND THE PROBLEM HAS STOPPED. IT WAS FIRST DIAGNOSED AS A FAULTY DOOR SENSOR. I PERSONALLY CHECKED AND CLEANED ALL DOOR CONTACT SENSORS BEFORE TAKING IT IN SO I KNEW THAT WAS NOT THE PROBLEM. JIM BROWNE WAS CLUELESS! (SHADE TREE MECHANIC / PARTS CHANGERS). TO MAKE THE INSULT EVEN WORSE, I CAUGHT THEM RED-HANDED CHARGING ME FOR WORK WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER MY FACTORY AND MY EXTENDED WARRANTIES! THE SERVICE MANAGER DOWNFACED ME AND NICELY CALLED ME A LIAR EVEN THOUGH I PROVIDED THEM COPIES OF MY EXTENDED WARRANTY TO STAPLE TO MY CUSTOMER FILE SEVERAL YEARS AGO. THEY RELENTED AND CREDITED ME BACK "SOME" OF THE MONEY THAT WAS UNRIGHTFULLY STOLEN BUT I AM CERTAIN IT IS NOT ALL. I PAID OUT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF $4000.00 AND LOST USE OF MY NITRO SOMETIMES FOR A WEEK AT A TIME WHILE IT JUST SAT IN THEIR YARD & THEY WAITED TO HEAR THE HORN BLARE (WHICH THEY SAY IT NEVER DID). I AM STILL OUT WELL OVER $1K FOR THE TIPM & LABOR CHARGES (OUTRAGEOUS) AND NO RECALL FROM DODGE ON THIS. WHAT IS DODGE WAITING FOR??? THIS IS NOT A SINGULA

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed May 4, 201860,000 milesWI

STARTED SUV SOUNDED VERY LOUD. PUT IN PARK SOUNDED BETTER. STARTED TO DRIVE AND SUV ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN, NOT SURE HOW FAST IT WOULD OF GOTTEN UP TO, ONLY WAY TO SLOW DOWN, STEP ON BREAK WITH BOTH FEET. I WAS CLOSE TO HOME SO JUST WANTED TO GET HOME. TURNED INTO DRIVEWAY UNABLE TO STOP IN TIME DROVE RIGHT THROUGH GARAGE DOOR. LUCKILY NO ONE WAS HURT , GARAGE DOOR DEMOLISHED, CAR DENTS AND MANY SCRATCHES. VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

Power Train
Filed Apr 25, 2018134,000 milesIN

TRANSFER CASE HAS STRIPPED OUT TWICE SINCE I HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE. I BOUGHT IT USED AND TWO MONTHS AFTER I BOUGHT IT WAS THE FIRST INCIDENT. POWERTRAIN WARRANTY REPAIRED IT, BUT NOW IT HAS HAPPENED AGAIN. ROUTINE MAINTINENCE HAS BEEN PERFORMED ON THE TRANSFER CASE AND DIFFERENTIALS. NO CLUE AS TO WHY IT KEEPS STRIPPING OUT.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 3, 2018930,000 milesSC

FOR THE SECOND TIME MY MASTER CYLINDER HAS GONE OUT. NO WARNING OR NOISE AT ALL; MY BREAKS WHEN PRESSED JUST GO STRAIGHT TO THE FLOOR. I REPLACED IT THE FIRST TIME AND IN LESS THAN 3 WEEKS IT HAS ALREADY GONE OUT AGAIN. I WAS DRIVING WHEN THIS HAPPENED THE FIRST TIME IN THE RAIN GOING DOWN HILL, SECOND TIME ON THE INTERSTATE.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 7, 2018100,000 milesFL

TAKATA RECALL

Air Bags
Filed Mar 5, 2018NM

THE AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS POPPING UP. WHEN PARKED OR MOVING, IT'S ALWAYS ON AND CHIMES FROM TIME TO TIME.THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN HIT OR IN ANY CAR ACCIDENTS. DEALER IS UNAWARE OF ANY ISSUES BUT I'VE TALKED WITH OTHER NITRO OWNERS THAT ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. MY CLOCK WAS LOSING TIME FOR A LONG TIME I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG. FINALLY THEY HAD A RECALL AND THEN WANTED TO CHARGE ME FOR THE REPAIR EVEN THOUGH IT HAD BEEN IN A COUPLE OF TIME FOR THE ISSUE BEFORE. I LOVE MY NITRO BUT I DON'T THINK I WILL EVER PURCHASE ANOTHER DODGE VEHICLE AGAIN BECAUSE OF HOW MY ISSUES HAVE BEEN HANDLED.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 19, 201898,000 milesIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 DODGE NITRO. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY AND REMAINED ACTIVATED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO TURN OFF THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BUTTON CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM (1220 E BLVD ST, KOKOMO, IN 46902, (888) 415-6958) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIPM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 21, 2017121,000 milesTX

WHEN I GET IN THE CAR, ALL THE LIGHTS AND DOOR AJAR SOUNDS HAPPEN LIKE NORMAL. WHEN I PUT THE KEY INTO IGNITION AND ATTEMPT TO CRANK IT, ALL THE LIGHTS IN THE DASH COME ON BUT THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START OR EVEN TURN OVER OR CLICK,,,NOTHING. AFTER START ATTEMPT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, GAS CAP LIGHT AND TIRE LIGHT STAY ON AND EVERYTHING ELSE SHUTS OFF. I HAVE BEEN A WEEK WITHOUT THE CAR BECAUSE IT WON'T START.

Complaints 1-50 of 122, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20122100Routine
2011 — this page122310Routine
201078320Routine
200924100Routine
20083933120Above average
20074947110Above average
20051000Routine

Compare every Nitro year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

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: Jul 7, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.