2013-2016 Dodge Dart 1.4L Turbo Starter: Clicking, Diagnosis, and Replacement Guide

Critical Compatibility Warning: This starter motor ONLY fits 2013-2016 Dodge Dart models equipped with the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo engine. It is NOT compatible with the 2.0L or 2.4L naturally aspirated engines, which use a different part. Always verify your engine size before purchasing.

Symptoms of a Failing Dodge Dart Starter

A bad starter rarely fails without warning. Listen for these common symptoms to catch the problem before you get stranded.

The Single, Loud Click

This is the most common sign of a failing starter. When you turn the key, you hear a single, sharp "CLICK" but the engine doesn't crank. This sound is the starter's solenoid—an electromagnetic switch—engaging, but the motor itself lacks the power or has an internal failure preventing it from turning the engine. This can be caused by worn internal components or a poor electrical connection to the starter itself.

No Sound at All

If you turn the key and nothing happens—no click, no crank, but your dashboard lights and radio work—the problem could be a completely failed starter solenoid or a faulty ignition switch. However, before blaming the starter, always check your battery and its connections first.

Grinding or Whirring Noise

A loud grinding or whirring sound during or after cranking indicates a problem with the starter's gear (the Bendix). The gear may not be properly engaging with the engine's flywheel, or it may not be retracting correctly after the engine has started. This can cause damage to both the starter gear and the flywheel, so it should be addressed immediately.

Intermittent Starting

If your Dart starts fine one day but refuses to crank the next, you may have a starter on its way out. This intermittent behavior is often caused by "dead spots" on the starter motor's internal electrical contacts. Sometimes the motor lands on a good spot and works, other times it lands on a worn spot and fails.

Smoke or a Burning Smell

Smoke or a burning smell coming from the engine bay when you try to start the car is a critical symptom. This can be caused by the starter motor overheating from excessive cranking or an electrical short within the starter. If you see or smell smoke, stop trying to start the car immediately to prevent a fire or further electrical damage.

Diagnose Before You Buy: Is It Really the Starter?

A no-start condition can be caused by several issues. Rule these out before spending money on a new starter.

1. Check the Battery: A weak or dead battery is the most common cause of a no-start. Your dashboard lights might still come on, but there isn't enough power to turn the starter. Try jump-starting the car. If it starts right up, your problem is likely the battery or charging system, not the starter.
2. Inspect Battery Terminals and Grounds: On the Dodge Dart, a poor ground connection is a known cause of no-start issues. Before doing anything else, disconnect the battery, then locate and clean the main battery terminals and the engine-to-chassis ground strap. Use a wire brush to clean all contact points until they are shiny, then re-tighten them securely. This simple, free step solves the problem for many owners.
3. Check Fuses and Relays: In the under-hood fuse box, there are two relays and two fuses related to the starter circuit. Check the 20-amp and 30-amp fuses to ensure they are not blown.
4. Consider the Shifter Cable Recall: The 2013-2016 Dart was subject to a major recall for its transmission shifter cable bushing (NHTSA recall #19V293000, later superseded by #25V674000). If this bushing fails, the car's computer may not recognize that the transmission is in Park or Neutral, preventing it from starting. If you can move the shifter but the gear indicator on the dash doesn't change, this could be your issue.

Buying a Used Starter Motor for Your Dart

A used OEM starter can be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive new parts, especially since the original Mopar units are generally well-built. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify the Part Number: The most important step. Ensure the starter came from a Dart with a 1.4L Turbo engine. Cross-reference OEM part numbers like 56029698AA or 68201259AA.
• Inspect the Gear: Look closely at the teeth on the small Bendix gear. They should be uniform and free of chips, cracks, or excessive wear. Damaged teeth are a major red flag.
• Check the Terminals: The electrical posts on the solenoid should be clean and free of heavy corrosion. Look for any signs of melting or discoloration around the terminals, which could indicate overheating.
• Consider Mileage: While starters don't have a set lifespan, one from a lower-mileage vehicle is always preferable. Starters typically last over 100,000 miles, but failure can happen at any time.
• Why Used OEM?: A recycled original Mopar/Mitsubishi starter often uses higher-quality materials and windings than the cheapest new aftermarket parts. This can mean better durability and a more precise fit, avoiding installation headaches.

Cost Comparison: 2013-2016 Dodge Dart 1.4L Starter

Replacement Overview

Replacing the starter on the 1.4L Dart is a moderately difficult job that a DIY mechanic can perform in about 1.5-2 hours. The starter is accessed from underneath the vehicle.

Basic Steps:

1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Lift the Vehicle: Safely raise the front of the car using jack stands or ramps to gain access underneath.
3. Locate the Starter: The starter is located on the back of the engine, where it meets the transmission.
4. Disconnect Electricals: Remove the nut holding the main power cable and unplug the smaller signal wire connector.
5. Remove Mounting Bolts: There are two main bolts holding the starter to the transmission bell housing. An extension will be necessary to reach them.
6. Remove the Starter: With the bolts out, the starter can be maneuvered down and out from under the car.
7. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. It's often helpful to loosely thread in the bolts to hold the new starter in place while you reconnect the electrical wires.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)