Positioning:
The Dodge Dart aimed to compete in the popular compact car segment, offering a blend of European styling (based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform) with American branding and powertrain options.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte.
Platform:
Compact Wide platform, shared with Fiat and Alfa Romeo models.
Styling:
Distinctive Dodge styling cues, including the crosshair grille, with a sporty and European-influenced design.
Interior:
Modern interior design with available premium materials and advanced technology integration.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, maintenance, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, emission control systems.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control modules (ECM/PCM), sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 6F24) and Manual Transmission (e.g., 6-speed) overhaul, diagnosis, maintenance, fluid specifications, shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, axles, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (electric or hydraulic assist), steering column, tie rods, steering gear.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, structural components, doors, hood, trunk, glass, weatherstripping, interior trim removal/installation.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control.
Electrical Body:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, battery, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
Infotainment And Electronics:
Radio, navigation system, Uconnect system (if equipped), instrument cluster, driver information display.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnosis.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, replacement, and reassembly.
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including specifications and tolerances.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, throttle body cleaning and adjustment, idle speed control adjustments.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repairs. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Transmission Options:
6-speed C635 Manual Transmission, 6-speed 6F24 Automatic Transmission (with AutoStick).
Optional Transmission:
6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DDCT) for the 1.4L Turbo engine (though less common in the US market for 2015).
Automatic Features:
AutoStick manual shifting mode, driver-selectable modes.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific AT fluid type (likely ATF+4 or equivalent, depending on manufacturer specification for the 6F24).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific MT fluid type (likely GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (as per NHTSA data for 2015 Dodge Dart)
IIHS Rating:
Good in most categories for the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), check specific model year for all tests.
Active Safety:
Available features included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control, Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill Start Assist.
Passive Safety:
Standard airbags (front, side, curtain), crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system, typically with a touchscreen interface (e.g., 8.4-inch display on higher trims). Features include AM/FM radio, USB, AUX input, Bluetooth connectivity, optional navigation, and voice control.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available features included rearview camera, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and media playback.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to owner's manual or service manual for precise intervals).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs (engine dependent).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend (API SN certified), refer to specific engine for exact viscosity and API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (MS-12106) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (refer to owner's manual for exact specification).
Common Problems:
Potential issues can include premature wear of clutch components in manual transmissions, early failure of certain electronic sensors, and HVAC system performance concerns. Specific common issues are detailed comprehensively within the service manual.