The 2012 Avenger lasts only around 150,000 miles with engine and transmission issues. At $7,436 – 9,705, it’s not worth the money to buy a car that will always be in the shop.
Is the 2012 Dodge Avenger a Good Used Car?
- No, 2012 is a bad year. Owners complain about the engine, computer, and cheap interior components.
- Reliability ratings are poor. Models from 2009–2011 had fewer problems, with more mechanical issues showing up in 2012-2016.
- Performance is weak from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 is much faster.
- The Avenger is a safe car, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick Award.
- Fuel economy is below average at up to 24 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Avenger?
- Consumer Reports finds the Avenger to be an aging and uncompetitive sedan with low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds users rate the Avenger 3.7/5 and like the powerful V6, but find the cabin is very small.
- Kelley Blue Book gives the Avenger a 2.8/5, saying it’s worse than the Charger, and missing technology found on rivals.
What Common Problems Does the 2012 Dodge Avenger Have?
Problems are fairly serious with the Avenger including heater failures, stalling engines, and transmission issues.
Heater failures are a very widespread issue showing up in the first 60,000 miles. The heater core and radiator are known weak spots in the car and replacements cost nearly $1,200.
Stalling engines are a frequent problem at around 75,000 miles. There are several sources including failed sensors, spark plugs, throttle body, and fuel pumps. Replacing worn-out components costs as little as $200 for a sensor, to over $1,500 for a fuel pump.
Transmission issues are another common problem showing up at around 60,000 miles. Owners report the transmission gets stuck in first gear and will not shift. In some cases replacing the transmission is necessary, costing over $2,500.
There are 3 recalls which are all minor, addressing safety systems in the car. The recalls include head restraints, air bags, and seat belt pretensioners and are not an issue once they’ve been replaced.
How Long Will the 2012 Dodge Avenger Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Avenger will last around 150,000 miles, which is over 150,000 miles shorter than reliable competitors including the Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are high, according to Repair Pal at $563 per year.
As an Avenger reaches 100,000 miles owners should prepare to replace the camshaft for $750, the ABS control module costing $500, and the mass airflow sensor which costs $245.
It is a very reliable vehicle. However, if your job requires a lot of driving on poorly maintained roads, I would get something else. The avenger is a fun car to drive.
Yes the 2012 dodge avenger sxt is reliable. I have driven it many times from St. Louis, mo to Columbia, mo which is about 160 miles. Never needed road assistance.
It is very reliable. I have never had a problem with this car. I do keep up with regular maintenance to make sure it stays that way.
It is a very reliable vehicle. Everyplace I go I have gotten with no problems. I love it.Wouldn't change it for anything.
It is reliable no problems in the three years I have the car just wear and tries to keep up maintenance.
It is reliable, however when something does go wrong it tends to be harder to fix than it should be mostly due to the fact that the engine is sideways & the battery is behind the front driver wheel well.
Yes reliable. Not bad issues, just the standard ones you get with any vehicle you choose to drive. The norm.
It is very reliable have not had any major issues in 3 years. Just minor maintenance has been done on my car. It fits my problem get everyone to work and to all my kids to school
How Much Is the 2012 Dodge Avenger Worth?
Blue book values range from $7,436 – 9,705, making the Avenger $2,000 cheaper than other midsize sedans including the Accord and Altima. When new, the price range was $18,995 to $25,995. Depreciation is average, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Avenger?
There are four models available for the 2012 Avenger. Technology is very basic even with the latest update in 2011 and the car was discontinued in 2014.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- Cruise Control
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Jack
SXT adds some good features including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- 8-Way Power Driver’s Seat
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Heated Exterior Mirrors
- 6-Speaker Stereo System With Satellite Radio
SXT Plus has more premium items such as:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Remote Ignition
- Heated Front Seats
- Touchscreen Navigation System
R/T is a sport-oriented model and features:
- Unique 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Sport Suspension
- Leather Seating
- Premium 6-Speaker Boston Acoustics Stereo System With Bluetooth Connectivity
What Engines Come In the Avenger?
- The base engine is a relatively weak 2.4L 4-cylinder with 173 horsepower.
- Found on the SXT Plus and R/T models is a quick 3.6L V6 making 283 horsepower, which only takes 6.5 seconds to go from 0-60.
What Colors Does the Avenger Come In?
How Big Is the Avenger?
The Avenger is smaller than other midsize sedans on the market including the Subaru Legacy and Fusion. Passenger space is cramped in the backseats with limited legroom.
Cargo space is less than rivals with only 13.4 cubic feet of room in the trunk.
How Does the Avenger Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota Camry is a competitive midsize sedan for around $3,000 more. The Camry stands out with better technology, but the interior materials are nicer in the Avenger. We recommend a Camry since they last much longer and are less of a headache to own.
The Ford Fusion is a close competitor costing about $500 more. Where the Fusion wins is with significantly more room, but the driving feel is better in the Avenger. Neither sedan is a good choice since they both have mechanical problems and are expensive to own long term.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Avenger?
Yes. It runs smooth and gets good gas mileage on the highway. It is a fun car to drive, I'd purchase another one.
Yes the dodge avenger sxt is a good vehicle. I really do not have any major problems with it unless I have to change my tires or get them rotated. Drives very well.
Yes it is great. Built heavy and handles well. The interior and exterior is beautiful and look really nice. I haven't had any problems with this vehicle.
The avenger is an great vehicle I use it daily for all my needs to work, store,out of town and so much more.
It is a good vehicle I haven't had major problems with the car it is working fine gets me where I want to go.
Yes. I like the shape of the car and the design of the interior. It’s not super smart (no nav TV) which I prefer. It has a radio and an aux which is all I need. It drives and handles well too.
Yes, it’s reliable and looks like a sports car but your insurance only charges for a sedan! So that was super cool.
Yes! I love my avenger had it 3 years. Have not had any issues but minor maintenance. Not too big not too small I have a 2012, hope to get a newer model next year after mine is paid off