2009 Dodge Avenger
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2009 Dodge Avenger maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Dodge Avenger.
For oil changes, the 2009 Dodge Avenger takes 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5.5 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Mopar OAT (Purple/Violet), and transmission fluid is ATF+4. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Dodge Avenger, torque the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2009 Dodge Avenger have reported 5 common issues including "TIPM Failure and Fuel Pump Relay Sticking", "Transmission Harsh Shifting and Failure" and "2.4L Engine Oil Consumption and Timing Chain Noise". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
There are 2 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2009 Dodge Avenger. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2009 Dodge Avenger uses 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (5.5 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 100 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2009 Dodge Avenger. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2009 Dodge Avenger.
Common problems reported by 2009 Dodge Avenger owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
TIPM Failure and Fuel Pump Relay Sticking
The 2012 Avenger shares the same TIPM failure pattern as other Chrysler products of this era. The fuel pump relay within the TIPM sticks in the closed position, causing the fuel pump to run continuously even with the key removed, or sticks open causing a no-start condition. Other TIPM symptoms include random horn honking, headlight flickering, and power accessory failures.
Replace the TIPM assembly. Install a fuel pump relay bypass kit as an interim fix for the fuel pump relay specifically. TSB 08-044-12 covers TIPM diagnosis for the JS-platform Avenger. Chrysler Customer Satisfaction Notification N47 provides extended warranty for certain TIPM fuel pump relay failures.
Est. Cost: $400 - $1,100Transmission Harsh Shifting and Failure
The 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission in the V6 Avenger and the 4-speed automatic in 4-cylinder models both develop harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and premature failure. The 62TE is prone to solenoid pack failure and torque converter shudder, while the 4-speed suffers from worn clutch packs causing slipping between gears.
Service the transmission with a fluid and filter change using ATF+4. For torque converter shudder, the torque converter must be replaced. TSB 21-005-12 addresses shift quality through TCM software updates. If the transmission has internal damage, a complete rebuild or remanufactured unit is required.
Est. Cost: $300 - $3,5002.4L Engine Oil Consumption and Timing Chain Noise
The 2.4L World engine in the 4-cylinder Avenger consumes excessive oil between changes and develops timing chain rattle noise on cold starts. Oil consumption of 1 quart per 2,000 miles is commonly reported. The timing chain tensioner and guides wear prematurely, allowing chain slack that produces a rattling or slapping noise during startup.
Monitor oil level between changes and use the manufacturer-recommended 5W-20 oil. Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides if rattle is present. TSB 09-008-12 addresses timing chain tensioner updates for the 2.4L engine. Check the PCV valve for proper function as a restricted PCV increases crankcase pressure and oil consumption.
Est. Cost: $200 - $1,200Electrical System Parasitic Battery Drain
The 2012 Avenger frequently experiences dead batteries caused by parasitic electrical drain from modules that fail to enter sleep mode. The radio, BCM, and trunk latch module are common culprits. Owners report finding a dead battery after the vehicle sits overnight, particularly in cold weather when the battery's capacity is already reduced.
Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the offending circuit. Common fixes include replacing the trunk latch module, updating the radio software, or replacing the BCM. TSB 08-050-12 covers parasitic draw diagnosis procedures. The draw should be under 50 milliamps with all modules in sleep mode; anything higher indicates a fault.
Est. Cost: $100 - $600AC Compressor Failure and Refrigerant Leaks
The AC compressor fails prematurely due to clutch bearing failure or internal component damage, resulting in no cooling output. The condenser is also prone to pinhole leaks from road debris impact due to its exposed position behind the grille. Slow refrigerant leaks from deteriorating O-ring connections are also common.
Replace the AC compressor, receiver dryer, and expansion valve as a complete system. Flush all AC lines to remove debris from compressor failure. Inspect the condenser for physical damage and replace if leaking. Recharge the system with the correct amount of R-134a refrigerant and PAG oil.
Est. Cost: $500 - $1,5002 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2009 Dodge Avenger. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 91 MY 2009 SEBRING AND DODGE AVENGER EQUIPPED WITH 2.4L ENGINE PASSENGER VEHICLES. A COMPATIBILITY ISSUE BETWEEN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER SOFTWARE AND FUEL PUMP MODULE CAN RESULT IN THE FUEL GAUGE OVERSTATING THE ACTUAL FUEL TANK LEVEL. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE MAY RUN OUT OF FUEL WHEN THE GAUGE INDICATES THAT THERE IS STILL FUEL REMAINING IN THE TANK.
THIS COULD CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 712 MY 2009 SEBRING, DODGE CALIBER, AVENGER, JOURNEY, JEEP PATRIOT, AND COMPASS VEHICLES. A NEW ADHESIVE USED IN THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) MANUFACTURING PROCESS CAN CAUSE THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD TO BREAK.
THIS CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PCM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.