Vehicles / Dodge / Nitro / 2011

2011 Dodge Nitro

122 federal complaints (197 component records) · 3 recall campaigns on file · 2 federal investigations · 59 service bulletins · 3 Canadian recalls
See all 7 model years of the Dodge Nitro →
Engine
3.7L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
16 city / 22 hwy
Federal complaints
122
Recall campaigns
3
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Electrical system
54
Air bags
24
Fuel system
17
Engine & cooling
17
Power train
16
Glass & wipers
13
Other
9
Brakes
9
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 9 complaints01 years old: 3 complaints2 years old: 13 complaints3 years old: 16 complaints4 years old: 12 complaints5 years old: 16 complaints56 years old: 11 complaints7 years old: 15 complaints8 years old: 10 complaints9 years old: 3 complaints10 years old: 6 complaints1011 years old: 6 complaints12 years old: 1 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 1 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 122 of 122 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 13 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 12 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 12 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 12 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 14 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 7 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 7 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 7 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 1 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 1 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 86 of 122 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Electrical system

54 complaint records1 fire report
"THE CAR START, WINDSHEILD WIPERS COME ON BY THEMSELF AND VEHICLE WILL NOT GO IN GEAR. HAVE TO REMOVE THE BATTERY CABLE FOR CAR TO GO INTO GEAR. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Air bags

24 complaint records4 crash reports
"TIPM ISSUES. CAUSING HORN TO GO OFF WHILE STATIONARY AND DRIVING. CAUSING CAR TO NOT START WHILE STATIONARY. AND CAUSING ISSUES WITH THE LIGHTS, WIPERS AND MORE...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Fuel system

17 complaint records
"REGARDLESS OF WHICH GAS STATION/PUMP, DURING REFUEL GAS WILL OVERFLOW AND SPRAY ONTO THE GROUND, CAR, AND OPERATOR. VEHICLE ALWAYS STATIONARY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse fuel system parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA19001
opened Apr 2019
closed Sep 2024Air BagsElectrical overstress - led to recall 20V024
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect.
DP14004
opened Sep 2014
closed Jul 2015Electrical SystemTotally Integrated Power Module Failure
In a letter dated August 21, 2014, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a defect investigation of alleged failures associated with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
20V396000SteeringChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles.Normally free
13V282000Electrical SystemChrysler 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...Normally free
11V315000SteeringCHRYSLER 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...Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2020311
2020-07-08
Airbag188,249Issue: On certain vehicles, the emblem on the steering wheel could become loose. If this happens, the emblem or its retainers could become projectiles when the airbag inflates in a crash.
2013231
2013-07-04
Airbag25,546On certain vehicles, the airbag warning lamp may illuminate due to an electrical fault within the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module.
2011224
2011-06-10
Steering2,270Certain vehicles may have been built with a missing or incorrectly installed steering column pivot rivet. A steering column with a miss-installed rivet may not perform as intended in the event of a crash, which may increase the risk of...

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
107418
Sep 2025
Service BrakesSWITCH - CLUTCH STARTER INTERLOCK & MASTER CYLINDER ASSEMBLY - CLUTCH
9100226
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemConnector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability.
9100196
Jul 2023
EquipmentLubrication and Maintenance Fluids If MOPAR fluids and chemicals are not readily available, please review Service Library for specifications so a suitable alternative can be used
3100122
Aug 2022
StructureApproved Use of Weld Through Primers This bulletin documents the FCA US LLC position regarding the use of weld through primer when using Squeeze Type Resistance Spot Welding (STRSW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes when welding steel body panels and structural...
S2209000004
Apr 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingIf a Mopar oil filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils.
Show 54 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
9004509
Mar 2022
Power TrainOil Filter If a Mopar Oil Filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils. Recommended Brands: Wix, Purolator, and NapaGold
Y22 Combo Rev1
Nov 2021
Air BagsCustomer Satisfaction Notification Y22 Driver Airbag Emblem
Y22 Combo
Nov 2021
Air BagsCustomer Satisfaction Notification Y22 Driver Airbag Emblem
9004009
Apr 2021
Power TrainTransmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage.
72301
Feb 2021
Air BagsSAFETY RECAL W09 DRIVER AIR BAG EMBLEM Updated Dealer Instructions
71064
Dec 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-22 (X92) Active Head Restraint - Select 2011 Dodge Journey (JC), Dodge Avenger/Chrysler 200 (JS), Dodge Nitro (KA), Jeep Liberty (KK), Jeep Compass/Jeep Patriot (MK), Dodge Caliber (PM), Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country (RT), Dodge Durango (WD), Jeep...
70729
Dec 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-22 (X92) Active Head Restraint - Select 2011 Dodge Journey (JC), Dodge Avenger/Chrysler 200 (JS), Dodge Nitro (KA), Jeep Liberty (KK), Jeep Compass/Jeep Patriot (MK), Dodge Caliber (PM), Dodge Caravan (RT), Dodge Durango (WD), Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK)
23-041-20
Dec 2020
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X92 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
69918
Nov 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-17 (X85) Active Head Restraint - Select 2010-2013 Jeep Liberty (KK) and 2010-2012 Dodge Nitro (KA)
23-028-20
Nov 2020
EquipmentActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X85 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
2302820
Nov 2020
SeatsActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X85 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
S1121000006 Rev.
Aug 2020
Engine(Revision A) No Start No Crank ? Starter Will Not Engage And There Are No Related Codes Or Concerns
S1121000006RevA
Aug 2020
Electrical System(Revision A) No Start No Crank ? Starter Will Not Engage And There Are No Related Codes Or Concerns
23-015-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentDisinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
08-049-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
18-039-20
Apr 2020
Fuel SystemPossible Driveability Issues due to the Winter-Blend Fuel into the Warmer Season
DOR-X2F3G-02
Jan 2020
VisibilityThis SKU is a Power Window Regulator and Motor Assembly. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the geometry of the part.
DOR-U3S6H-02
Jan 2020
VisibilityThis SKU is a Power Window Regulator and Motor Assembly. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the geometry of the part.
9004022
Dec 2019
SuspensionAir Suspension Components Star Parts Catalog has been updated to show individual service parts for the compressor assembly. This will allow service technicians to repair the root cause without over repairing the system.
31-006-19
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
31-004-19
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
31-003-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
31-005-19
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
3100619
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100419
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
3100319
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
9003220
Aug 2019
EquipmentRADIO [RES] - New and/or Service Exchange For RES radio concerns. Use the wiTECH 2.0 and inspect the radio part number and serial number under the Radio/ECU Details tab. Please verify that the radio part number and/or serial number is not "FFFF".
04-001-17
Mar 2017
Electrical SystemFailure Code Change This bulletin involves notifying the dealers and technicians of a change to the Required Flash (RF) and Customer Concern (CC) failure codes.
9003694
Mar 2017
Engine And Engine CoolingOil Pump Assembly If error code P06DD present on any Pentastar V6 application, please inspect oil pump for relief valve failure. See photo attached.
9003687
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Remove I-Sheet from packaging. Correct information sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
9003681
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Information Sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
18-092-16
Jul 2016
Fuel SystemFlash: Powertrain Diagnostic And System Improvements This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest available software. A small number of customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
Z5091195A$
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
Z5091195A
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
08-031-16
Mar 2016
EquipmentHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously This bulletin involves diagnosing and based on outcome, either performing a USB flash or replacing the Mopar accessory Hands Free Module (HFM).
0803116
Mar 2016
Electrical SystemHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously.
RL108213A$
Jan 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingNAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
9002887
Feb 2015
Engine And Engine CoolingPart Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009,...
9002503
Sep 2014
Electrical SystemPart Description: RHR Radio Issue Description: Issue 1: While performing RHR radio reflash (software update), on rare occasions, the flash can fail to properly update the radio resulting in the radio running in Emergency IFS mode.
18-047-14
Aug 2014
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-058-14
Jul 2014
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-024-14
May 2014
EquipmentRHW RHP Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves upgrading the software on the RHW or RHP Radio. The customer may experience one or more of the following conditions. Navigation voice prompt is now announced near maneuvers such as exit ramps.
9003081
Apr 2014
Electrical SystemDielectric Grease This product is no longer approved for use on ignition coil and spark plug boots. Current plug boot material(silicone) is not compatible with this grease and can cause deterioration over time.
08-027-14
Mar 2014
EquipmentRHR Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves upgrading the software on the RHR radio. The customer may experience one or more of the following conditions. Enhancements to the loss of preset condition.
SB08-003-13-REVA
May 2013
EquipmentSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-003-13 REV. A
May 2013
Electrical SystemClock In The Radio Loses Time This bulletin involves replacing the Wireless Control Module (WCM)/Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM). Customer may experience a condition where the clock will lose over one minute a month.
9002519
Mar 2013
Equipment82212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois,...
23-008-13
Feb 2013
StructureSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
09-001-13
Feb 2013
EngineGasoline Engine Diagnostic Inspection Procedure This bulletin provides a procedure to determine repair versus replacement of a gasoline long block engine assembly. This procedure is to be used prior to conducting any engine related repairs or removal of engine components.
08-003-13
Jan 2013
Electrical SystemClock In The Radio Loses Time This bulletin involves replacing the Wireless Control Module (WCM)/Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM). Customer may experience a condition where the clock will lose over one minute a month.
SB-08-003-13
Jan 2013
EquipmentSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-053-12
Nov 2012
Electrical SystemFlash: RHR, RHW Or RHP Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves upgrading the software on the RHR, RHW or RHP Radio. The customer may experience one or more of the following conditions. Erratic alternate frequency switching (International only).
CSN-L-15
Sep 2011
Latches/Locks/LinkagesCHRYSLER SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. THE RIGHT FRONT AND REAR DOOR LATCH MAY HAVE A RATCHET SOUND WHILE USING THE POWER DOOR LOCKS. *RM

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  2. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  3. Smell for fuel and watch the first restart when hot.Hard starting when warm, hesitation under load, or any fuel odor near the tank or engine bay match this vehicle's fuel-system cluster. Check the recall table for fuel pump campaigns.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 3 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Dodge Nitro →