2011 DODGE NITRO — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data
N/A
Safety Rating
197
Owner Complaints
3
Recalls
8
Service Bulletins
0
Investigations
Overview of the 2011 DODGE NITRO
The 2011 DODGE NITRO has received a total of 197 safety complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There have been 5 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE, STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR, AIR BAGS. 8 technical service bulletins have been issued by Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) for this model year. The most commonly reported problems involve the Electrical System (53 complaints), Air Bags (23 complaints), and Engine (16 complaints).
Recalls for the 2011 DODGE NITRO
NHTSA has recorded 5 recalls for the 2011 DODGE NITRO, potentially affecting up to 2,746,214 vehicles.
Recall 20V396000 — AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
| 925,239 vehicles affected
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...
Consequence: 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...
View full details →Recall 20V396000 — STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
| 925,239 vehicles affected
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...
Consequence: 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...
View full details →Recall 13V282000 — AIR BAGS
| 442,320 vehicles affected
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...
Consequence: 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...
View full details →Recall 13V282000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
| 442,320 vehicles affected
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...
Consequence: 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...
View full details →Recall 11V315000 — STEERING:COLUMN
| 11,096 vehicles affected
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.
Consequence: 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.
View full details →Owner Complaints for the 2011 DODGE NITRO
197 complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2011 DODGE NITRO. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 53 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Air Bags | 23 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Engine | 16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Power Train | 16 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Fuelpropulsion System | 14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitywiper | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Service Brakes | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Unknown Or Other | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Exterior Lighting | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Steering | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Electronic Stability Control Esc | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fuel System Gasoline | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance Adaptive Cruise Control | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Seat Belts | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Structurebody | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Air Bagssidewindow | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Electrical Systemwiring | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Equipmentapplianceair Conditioner | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Exterior Lightingbrake Lights | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Exterior Lightingheadlights | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Structurebodydoor | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Tires | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Traction Control System | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac Systemfanmotor | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitywindshield Wiperwasher | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibilitywindshield Wiperwashermotor | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Wheels | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Most Recent Complaints
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.
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.
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.
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 they do. It disappoints that even the AG's "Consumer Protection Division" has no teeth. Visibility: It would be interesting to learn how many pedestrians have been hit with this particular model. With all the safety regs out there, it's amazing that a design that blocks visibility gets a pass. Unfortunately it is not the kind of thing you can discover in a test drive, but - crosswalks and four-way stops in particular are dangerous. You can hide a Ryder truck behind these A pillars.
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 they do. It disappoints that even the AG's "Consumer Protection Division" has no teeth. Visibility: It would be interesting to learn how many pedestrians have been hit with this particular model. With all the safety regs out there, it's amazing that a design that blocks visibility gets a pass. Unfortunately it is not the kind of thing you can discover in a test drive, but - crosswalks and four-way stops in particular are dangerous. You can hide a Ryder truck behind these A pillars.
Safety Rating for the 2011 DODGE NITRO
NHTSA has not yet tested the 2011 DODGE NITRO in its New Car Assessment Program.
Technical Service Bulletins for the 2011 DODGE NITRO
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) has issued 8 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2011 DODGE NITRO. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.
71064 — SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Warranty 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 Grand Cherokee (WK) (Rev. A)
18-092-16 — EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Flash: 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. Upon further investigation, the technician may find the following DTCs set in the PCM memory: · **U0140...
18-092-16 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Flash: 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. Upon further investigation, the technician may find the following DTCs set in the PCM memory: · **U0140...
Z5091195A$ — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
RES / 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). The Telematics Module (and associated components) is the system responsible for these features. A power...
08-024-14 — EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
RHW 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. Radio freeze when playing large number of .M4A or .WMA...
23-008-13 — STRUCTURE:BODY
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
23-008-13 — EQUIPMENT
Left And/Or Right Door High Closing Effort This bulletin involves inspecting front door body mounted seal placement and if necessary, adjusting seals and/or left and/or right front door striker to eliminate high closing effort. The customer may experience high closing efforts on the left and/or right front doors when closing.
SB-08-003-13 — EQUIPMENT
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
NHTSA Investigations for the 2011 DODGE NITRO
There are no NHTSA defect investigations on record for this vehicle.
Other Model Years of the DODGE NITRO
- 2007 DODGE NITRO — 676 complaints
- 2008 DODGE NITRO — 608 complaints
- 2009 DODGE NITRO — 36 complaints
- 2010 DODGE NITRO — 111 complaints
- 2011 DODGE NITRO (current)
- 2012 DODGE NITRO — 3 complaints
Other DODGE Models
- DODGE DURANGO — 19,139 total complaints
- DODGE GRAND CARAVAN — 18,729 total complaints
- DODGE RAM 1500 — 15,420 total complaints
- DODGE CARAVAN — 14,266 total complaints
- DODGE DAKOTA — 9,227 total complaints
- DODGE CHARGER — 8,114 total complaints
- DODGE RAM 2500 — 8,092 total complaints
- DODGE INTREPID — 8,078 total complaints