Automotive Fleet
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Dodge Darts Recalled for Brake-Assist Risk

The action affects more than 105,000 compact sedans in the 2013 and 2014 model years.

by Staff
December 4, 2015
Dodge Darts Recalled for Brake-Assist Risk

Photo of Dodge Dart courtesy of FCA US.

2 min to read


Photo of Dodge Dart courtesy of FCA US.

FCA US is recalling an estimated 105,458 2013-2014 model-year Dodge Darts in the U.S. to address a potential brake-assist problem.

Dealers will inspect and replace vacuum-tube assemblies and some other components, as needed, in Dodge Darts equipped with either a 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter engine, the automaker said. The vehicles are at risk for oil migration that could affect the brake systems’ power-assist feature. 

Ad Loading...

“Foundation brake function is unaffected,” FCA US explained in a released statement. “However, if this condition occurs, the driver may notice hard pedal-feel on brake application, and longer distances may be required to stop the vehicle in emergency situations.”

FCA US said it’s aware of two minor injuries and seven accidents that could possibly be related to this condition.  

An FCA US investigation found that these cars might have brake-booster vacuum-tube routing that permits oil to reach the brake booster diaphragm, if the vacuum-pump check valve ever fails. As a result, oil may degrade the diaphragm and lead to a loss of brake-assist – a feature that helps reduce stopping distances.   

Drivers might notice warning signs of the problem developing.

“The condition may be preceded by a pop or a sound consistent with a vacuum leak,” FCA US said. “Customers who experience such events and/or hard pedal-feel are advised to contact their dealers.”  

Ad Loading...

The recall is limited to Dodge Dart compact sedans produced before Jan. 24, 2014. Beyond the U.S., the recall also affects an estimated 11,996 cars in Canada, 3,705 in Mexico and 444 outside the NAFTA region.  

Vehicles equipped with 1.4-liter engines are excluded.

FCA US will advise vehicle owners of when they may schedule service. There will be no charge for the recall remedy. Service comprises an inspection and vacuum-tube replacement. If oil is found in the vacuum tube, dealers will also replace the vacuum pump, bake booster and master cylinder.  

The FCA US customer information center can be reached at (800) 853-1403.

More Safety

Chris Brown sits across from safety experft at Lifesaver mobile in an interview about distracted driving and phone use tech.
Safetyby Chris BrownMay 1, 2026

Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.

Read More →
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 15, 2026

Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 2

As distraction risks evolve, fleets are turning to smarter, more connected technologies to better understand what’s happening behind the wheel. Part 2 explores how these tools are helping identify risky behaviors and improve visibility across operations.

Read More →
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 11, 2026

 Data Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities After a Crash

What fleets capture to improve safety can also expose them in litigation, forcing leaders to rethink how data is managed, stored, and shared.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Driver holding a phone while steering, illustrating distracted driving and the importance of mental awareness and attention on the road for fleet safety.
Safetyby Judie NuskeyApril 10, 2026

From Distraction to Detection: Strengthening Awareness in Fleet Drivers

Distracted driving is often measured by what we can see—phones in hand, eyes off the road. But what about the distractions we can’t? A recent incident raises a bigger question about awareness, attention, and why subtle risks so often go unnoticed.

Read More →
Safetyby StaffApril 8, 2026

Lytx 2026 Road Safety Report

While serious crashes are declining, a rise in minor incidents and ongoing risk hotspots underscore the need for continued fleet safety investment.

Read More →
Driver’s hands on steering wheel in a sunlit vehicle, representing real-world driver behavior and the shift from data monitoring to hands-on training in fleet safety programs.
Safetyby Judie NuskeyApril 7, 2026

Behind-the-Wheel vs. Classroom Training: What Actually Changes Driver Behavior?

Fleets have more driver data than ever, so why isn't behavior changing? Training requires more than reports and coaching — it requires real-world practice.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A person in a car on their phone behind the steering wheel.
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 1, 2026

Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 1

A two-part conversation with Stefan Heck on how AI is transforming the fight against distracted driving. As fleets adopt smarter tools, the focus shifts from reacting to preventing risk. In Part 1, we look at where AI is making an impact for fleets today.

Read More →
Pedestrians crossing a busy street, highlighting the importance of driver awareness and caution to prevent pedestrian accidents.
Safetyby StaffMarch 30, 2026

Pedestrian Safety Starts With the Driver

More people on foot means more risk for drivers. These pedestrian safety tips can help prevent serious injuries and keep everyone safer on the road.

Read More →
SponsoredMarch 30, 2026

Safety by Design: Power and Protection in the Freightliner 114SD Plus

Safer crews. Fewer incidents. Better uptime. Learn how driver-assist technology is changing the way vocational fleets operate.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Safetyby StaffMarch 26, 2026

Pedestrian Deaths Drop in First Half of 2025, Marking Largest Decline in Years

An 11% drop in pedestrian fatalities in early 2025 signals progress in U.S. road safety, but elevated death rates and ongoing risks underscore the need for continued action from fleets and policymakers.

Read More →