2012 Dodge Avenger SE
VIN: 1C3CDZAG7CN309641 | 2012 | FCA US LLC | STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
2012 Dodge Avenger SE — 3.6L 6 Cyl, FWD, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
C
57/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 3 open recalls
⚠ 553 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
3 Open Recalls- Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012 Jeep...
- Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year...
- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Sebring and...
Owner Complaints
553 filed with NHTSA- My car dies while im driving down the street,...
- Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in...
Fuel Economy
22 MPG Combined- City: 19 MPG
- Hwy: 28 MPG
- Combined: 22 MPG
- Fuel: Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1C3CDZAG7CN309641
Model Year
2012
Make
Dodge
Model
Avenger
Trim
SE
Series
JS
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
Not available
Seat Rows
Not available
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
3.6L 6 Cyl
Manufacturer
FCA US LLC
Plant Location
STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — Country
1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
C → FCA US LLC
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
3 → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
CDZAG → Avenger SE
Position 9 — Check Digit
7 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
C → 2012
Position 11 — Plant Code
N → STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
309641 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
Not available
Engine Manufacturer
Chrysler
Cylinders
6 Cyl
Displacement
3.6 L
Displacement CC
3600.0
Displacement CI
219.68547874103
Engine Config
Not available
Engine Cycles
Not available
Horsepower
283 hp
Torque
Not available
Valve Train
Not available
Fuel Injection
Not available
Cooling System
Not available
Engine Brake HP
Not available
Turbocharger
No
Supercharger
Not available
Transmission Style
Not available
Transmission Speeds
Not available
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Electrification
Not available
Fuel Type Primary
Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
Fuel Type Secondary
Not available
Battery Type
Not available
EV Drive Unit
Not available
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
Secondary Fuel
Not available
Combined MPG
22 MPG
Combined MPGe
16 MPGe
City MPG
19 MPG
Hwy MPG
28 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,800
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$14,000
GHG Score
Not available
Smog Rating
Not available
CO₂ Emissions
404 g/mi
Barrels/Year
13.52
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not available
Lane Departure Warning
Not available
Lane Keep System
Not available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not available
Parking Assist
Not available
Dynamic Brake Support
Not available
Pedestrian AEB
Not available
Rear Auto Braking
Not available
Auto Reverse System
Not available
Daytime Running Lights
Not available
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not available
Keyless Ignition
Not available
Auto High Beams
Not available
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
All Rows
Curtain Airbags
Unknown
Knee Airbags
Unknown
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not available
Brake System
Not available
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase
Not available
Ground Clearance
Not available
Vehicle Length
Not available
Vehicle Width
Not available
Vehicle Height
Not available
Curb Weight
Not available
Track Width Front
Not available
Track Width Rear
Not available
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Bed Length
Not available
Cab Type
Not Applicable
Fuel Tank
Not available
0–60 mph
Not available
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Trailer Type
Not Applicable
Axles
Not available
Axle Config
Not available
Trailer Body
Not Applicable
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
Front Tire Type
Not available
Rear Tire Type
Not available
Front Wheel Size
Not available
Rear Wheel Size
Not available
Spare Tire Type
Not available
Spare Tire Size
Not available
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Wheel Material
Not available
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
FCA US LLC
Manufacturer ID
994
Make ID
476
Model ID
1892
Plant Company
STERLING HEIGHTS ASSEMBLY PLANT
Plant City
STERLING HEIGHTS
Plant State
MICHIGAN
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Plant ZIP
Not available
Dest. Market
Not available
Vehicle Descriptor
1C3CDZAG*CN
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
3
Recall Status
Active recalls found
Overall Risk Level
Moderate Risk
ABS
Not available
ESC
Not available
Traction Control
Not available
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
📋
Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Dodge dealer with this VIN to confirm all 3 recall(s) are resolved.
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NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
💰
Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 3 open recall(s) as leverage for a lower price.
📝
Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$4,100–$6,400
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
4 Stars
Front Crash Rating
4 Stars
Side Crash Rating
4 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2012 Jeep Liberty and 2012-2013 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger vehicles. A component within the occupant restraint controller (ORC) may fail and prevent the active headrests from deploying in the event of a...
Risk: If the active headrests do not deploy in certain rear-end crashes, the front seat occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ORC as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2017. Owners may...
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air...
Risk: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle...
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Sebring and 200 vehicles manufactured June 28, 2011, through December 13, 2012; model year 2011-2013 Dodge Avenger vehicles manufactured June 25, 2011, through January 14, 2013; model year 2011-2012 Dodge Nitro vehicles manufactured...
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating the deployment of the active head restraints , their non-deployment could increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will flash the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) or replace the occupant restraint control module, as needed, free...
TSBs are manufacturer repair instructions issued to dealerships. They are not safety recalls. If you're experiencing an issue, ask your dealer if a TSB applies.
No bulletins found
No technical service bulletin records returned for this vehicle.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2012 Dodge Avenger
$1,380/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$6,900
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$14,000
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$2,880
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Dodge Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Dodge dealer.
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Run Free NICB Check for 1C3CDZAG7CN309641 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
My car dies while im driving down the street,...
My car dies while im driving down the street, making it difficult to steer and qhen you try to restart it, sometimes it starts and some times it...
Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in...
Window Defrost and Passenger Heat /Air. While either in motion or while driving, no heated air exits the passenger side of the windshield defroster, nor the passenger window...
I was driving and I stopped at a stop...
I was driving and I stopped at a stop sign. When I got ready to go, the car stalled and stopped and wouldn't start. After 30 minutes, it...
The contact called on behalf of her son who...
The contact called on behalf of her son who owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated that while her son was exiting a parking lot, upon driving...
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact...
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact received notification of an undisclosed recall. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off, the front passenger’s...
My car has no heat on the passenger side...
My car has no heat on the passenger side causing window fogging this is the 3 time I have had the car in at the dealers and they...
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact...
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger's side headrest deployed inadvertently and struck the head of...
Blank
Blank
Showing 8 of 553 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Dodge recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2012 DODGE Avenger based on vehicle class and age. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
2012
$5,300
2013
$4,700
-12%
2014
$4,100
-22%
2015
$3,600
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,380/yr
21%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
23%
Fuel/Energy
$2,800/yr
43%
Depreciation
$576/yr
9%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,506/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
6.4
/ 10
Rank #16 overall
49 issues / 100 vehicles
Dodge Reliability
Dodge performance vehicles are popular but electrical and interior quality concerns appear more frequently in owner surveys.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
10/10/2017
15/09/2016
02/07/2013
Vehicles in a similar class and price range to the 2012 DODGE Avenger:
Private Party
$3,600–$5,900
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$4,300–$7,000
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$4,400–$7,400
Full warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle has 3 open recall(s). Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm all recalls are resolved or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Dodge Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Powertrain
5yr/100k
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
⚠ At 14 years old, factory warranty coverage has likely expired on this vehicle. A third-party extended warranty may be worth considering.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2012 DODGE Avenger.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2012 DODGE Avenger:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
Proactively share a VIN Pro Plus or Carfax report link to build instant buyer confidence.
🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Fix open recalls first
This vehicle has 3 open recall(s). Resolving them before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 553 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
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VIN 1C3CDZAG7CN309641:
3 open recall(s) currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,380/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1C3CDZAG7CN309641 decode to?
VIN 1C3CDZAG7CN309641 decodes to a 2012 DODGE Avenger SE, assembled in STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2012 DODGE Avenger have?
This 2012 DODGE Avenger has 3 open recalls on record with NHTSA. Recalls are safety-related and should be resolved by a dealership at no charge to the owner.
Is it safe to buy a 2012 DODGE Avenger with open recalls?
Open recalls don't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but they should be addressed promptly. Contact a DODGE dealer with this VIN to confirm which recalls have been completed and schedule any outstanding repairs — they are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2012 DODGE Avenger?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2012 DODGE Avenger SE is estimated at $4,100–$6,400. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2012 DODGE Avenger get?
According to EPA data, the 2012 DODGE Avenger gets approximately 22 MPG combined (19 city / 28 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,800.
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