Dodge Hornet Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2023-2025 model years · Based on 270+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 270+ owner reports, the 2023-2025 Dodge Hornet has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious is Battery Cable Fire Risk - Safety Recall ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electrical and Software Malfunctions with 120 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $3,000. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 3 Known Issues
Improperly secured battery cable connections can result in fire. NHTSA recall issued for 2023-2024 Hornet models. Critical safety issue requiring immediate dealer attention.
Common Symptoms
- Battery cable connection loosening
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Burning smell near battery area
- In worst case: vehicle fire
How to Fix
Contact Dodge dealer immediately for free recall repair. Check VIN at safercar.gov for recall eligibility. Do not delay - this is a fire safety recall.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 50+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteIMMEDIATE action required - check VIN at safercar.gov for recall eligibility. Free dealer repair. Do not delay due to fire risk
First-year production teething issues on the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform. Wiring harness failures, battery control module failures, touchscreen freezes, front collision warning malfunctions, start/stop issues, and wireless charging overheating.
Common Symptoms
- Wiring harness failures
- Touchscreen freezes or goes blank
- Front collision warning not functioning
- Start/stop system malfunction
- Wireless charging pad overheating
How to Fix
Dealer warranty repairs for all electrical issues. Software updates address many known problems. BCM replacement for wiring harness failures. All repairs should be under warranty.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 120+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipAll issues should be covered under warranty. Request latest software updates from dealer which address many known electrical glitches
- Tip4 NHTSA recalls issued for 2023 model (battery cable/fire risk, tire placard, rearview camera) - verify all completed
The 9-speed automatic in 2023 GT models has calibration issues inherited from the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform. Hesitation, delayed upshifts, shuddering, and harsh downshifts. For 2024+, Dodge switched to the ZF 8-speed which is significantly improved.
Common Symptoms
- Hesitation during light-throttle acceleration
- Delayed upshifts
- Shuddering under load at low speeds
- Harsh downshifts
How to Fix
Get latest PCM/TCM software update from dealer. 2024+ models switched to ZF 8-speed. Regular transmission fluid service every 60,000 miles.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 100+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipGet latest PCM/TCM software update from dealer - often resolves most shifting complaints. 2024+ models use improved ZF 8-speed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Dodge Hornet problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 270+ owner reports, the 2023-2025 Dodge Hornet has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Battery Cable Fire Risk - Safety Recall, Electrical and Software Malfunctions, 9-Speed Transmission Calibration Issues. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Hornet reliable?
The 2023-2025 Dodge Hornet has 3 known issues documented across 270+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Battery Cable Fire Risk - Safety Recall. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Hornet problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Hornet issues range from $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Battery Cable Fire Risk - Safety Recall, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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