Dodge Dart Check Engine Light: Quick Guide
The Dodge Dart (2013-2016) is known to set check engine light warnings when the PCM detects a fault in emissions, ignition, or turbocharging systems. Use this updated guide to understand what the light means, how to capture the right diagnostic data, and which fixes keep it from returning.
- Powertrains covered: 2.0L Tigershark, 2.4L Tigershark, 1.4L MultiAir Turbo.
- Immediate steps: Scan for codes, capture freeze-frame data, and inspect vacuum lines and battery voltage.
- Tools you’ll need: OBD-II scanner with live data, smoke tester, multimeter, fuel pressure gauge, throttle body cleaner.
Common Dodge Dart DTCs
| Code | Symptoms | Likely Cause | First Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0300/P030x | Misfire, flashing MIL | Coil-on-plug failure, fouled spark plug, MultiAir actuator sticking | Swap coils, inspect plugs, run compression, clean MultiAir filter. |
| P0420 | Poor fuel economy, sluggish acceleration | Low catalyst efficiency, exhaust leak | Check for exhaust leaks, monitor O2 sensor waveforms, fix misfires first. |
| P0440/P0456 | Fuel odor, MIL after refuel | Loose cap, purge/vent solenoid leak | Replace gas cap, smoke-test EVAP system, inspect ESIM module. |
| P0128 | Long warm-up, heater blows cool air | Thermostat stuck open, low coolant | Check coolant level, replace thermostat, bleed cooling system. |
| P0299 | 1.4L turbo underboost, limp mode | Boost leak, wastegate or diverter valve fault | Pressure-test charge pipes, inspect wastegate actuator and vacuum lines. |
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Flow
- Record data: Capture all codes, freeze-frame snapshots, fuel trims, and Mode $06$ misfire counters.
- Baseline inspection: Check coil connectors, vacuum hoses, PCV lines, and for oil or coolant leaks around sensors.
- Ignition/fuel: Swap coils/plugs between cylinders, verify fuel pressure, and inspect for injector clogging.
- EVAP check: Smoke-test purge/vent lines, inspect the charcoal canister and ESIM integrity module.
- Turbo-specific: On 1.4L MultiAir, inspect boost hoses, intercooler joints, and wastegate actuator movement.
- Post-repair validation: Clear codes, drive in mixed conditions, monitor trims (+/-10% target) and ensure monitors reset to “complete.”
When to See a Mechanic
- Flashing MIL with engine knock, raw fuel smell, or low oil pressure warning.
- Repeated misfire codes after swapping coils, plugs, or servicing MultiAir components.
- Turbo underboost (P0299) returning after boost leak repairs or actuator adjustment.
Resetting the Light Correctly
- Scanner clear: Use Mode $04$ after the repair and make sure no pending or permanent codes remain.
- Battery disconnect: Only for emergencies; it clears adaptive fuel trims and radio presets.
- Flashing MIL: Signals an active misfire-stop driving to protect the catalytic converters.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Inspect spark plugs and coils every 30,000 miles; replace if gaps are out of spec.
- Keep the throttle body, MAP sensor, and MultiAir oil screen clean.
- Inspect EVAP hoses yearly, especially in cold climates where plastic lines crack.
- Check for PCM software updates; Dodge has released calibrations that address repeat P0299/P030x codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does P0299 keep returning on my 1.4L turbo?
Boost leaks or a misadjusted wastegate can retrigger P0299. Pressure-test charge pipes, then confirm the wastegate actuator and diverter valve move freely.
How do I know if the MultiAir system is causing misfires?
A contaminated MultiAir module can misfire. Clean the MultiAir filter, keep oil changes on schedule, and recalibrate or service actuators if misfires stay.
Can I keep driving with a check engine light?
If the MIL is steady and drivability feels normal you can finish a short trip, but schedule diagnostics quickly. A flashing light means stop driving immediately.