Accessory Drive Belt Guide for the Dodge Dart (1979-1983)
Important information for owners regarding the production history of this vehicle.
- The Dodge Dart was not manufactured for the North American market for model years 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, or 1983.
- The original North American Dodge Dart production ended in 1976.
- Accessory drive belts and other parts listed for a '1979-1983 Dodge Dart' are incorrect for a North American vehicle.
- Owners of a Chrysler vehicle from this era should verify their model (e.g., Dodge Aspen) to find correct parts.
Vehicle Production Notice
Research indicates that the Dodge Dart was not produced for the North American market between the 1979 and 1983 model years. The original production run of the Dodge Dart in North America concluded in 1976 and the model was succeeded by the Dodge Aspen. The Dart nameplate was later revived for a completely different compact car from 2013 to 2016. While the Dart name was used on different vehicle platforms in other markets, such as Mexico, during this period, those vehicles are distinct from the North American Dart. As a result, there are no new aftermarket or OEM accessory drive belts manufactured for a 1979-1983 North American-market Dodge Dart, because the vehicle does not exist.
Confirming Your Vehicle's Model and Year
If you own a Dodge vehicle from this era, it is likely a different model, such as the Dodge Aspen (1976-1980) or Dodge Diplomat. It is crucial to correctly identify your vehicle's year and model to find the correct parts. You can find this information on the vehicle's registration, title, or the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate, typically located on the driver's side of the dashboard near the windshield.
What if my car is a 1979-1983 Dodge from Mexico?
In Mexico, the Dodge Diplomat was marketed as the Dodge Dart, and other variations existed. These vehicles may have different engine configurations and parts. Sourcing parts for these models in the North American market can be challenging and may require specialized suppliers who import parts or can identify compatible components from other Chrysler vehicles of the era.
My car is a Dodge, but it's a 1976 or older Dart. What belt do I need?
For Dodge Darts from 1976 or earlier, accessory drive belts are available. The correct belt depends on your specific engine (e.g., Slant-6, V8) and what accessories are equipped (e.g., with or without A/C, with or without power steering). You must use your vehicle's specific details to find the correct belt from parts suppliers.
Why do some parts websites list belts for a 1979-1983 Dart?
Some parts catalog data can be inaccurate or contain carryover errors. A listing might exist due to a database error, or it may be for a part that fits a different vehicle that is incorrectly cross-referenced. Always verify part fitment with the vehicle's actual model and year, not just the nameplate which can be used differently across markets and time periods.
Are there any recalls for Dodge Darts?
There are no recalls registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a 1979-1983 Dodge Dart, as the vehicle was not sold in the US during those years. Recalls do exist for other production years, most notably for the 2013-2016 generation.
Technical Specifications
Not applicable. The 1979-1983 Dodge Dart was not sold in the North American market.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.