All the electrical componer is not working in the dash all the light is on say is not bus
2007 Dodge Nitro electrical problems
severe 213 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
213
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
4crashes
9fires
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 213 electrical complaints filed for the 2007 Dodge Nitro, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 75,000-100,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 5 model years of Dodge Nitro we track for electrical problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 213.
Owners have filed 213 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2007 Dodge Nitro suffers from pervasive electrical faults, most centered on a faulty TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) that serves as the vehicle's central electrical control. Owners consistently report the engine shutting off without warning while driving at highway speeds—loss of all power including steering and brakes, coasting 2–30 seconds, then restarting on its own. This has occurred 3–8+ times per vehicle, sometimes years apart, creating dangerous situations at intersections and on hills with no visibility warning to other drivers.
The TIPM failure triggers erratic simultaneous activation of multiple systems: horn honking repeatedly (even with engine off and no key), windshield wipers activating unprompted, washer fluid spraying continuously, door locks locking and unlocking uncontrollably, headlights and dashboard lights flickering on and off, and A/C blowing hot when set to cold. Owners report that dashboard warning lights (ESP, BAS, ABS, SRS) sometimes illuminate with no actual problem, while other times serious malfunctions occur with no warning lights at all—a pattern that leaves mechanics unable to diagnose via scan tools.
Two documented cases resulted in spontaneous vehicle fires while parked, with fire origin traced to steering column and dashboard wiring. Battery drains occur from electrical components running while the vehicle sits parked. Power door locks fail intermittently or completely; when they do work, the trunk cannot be locked at all. Interior door handles break off easily (made of plastic), leaving owners unable to exit if power locks also fail. Recall repairs and TIPM replacements ($700–$1,200) have not prevented recurrence in multiple documented cases. Dealers frequently report being unable to replicate problems or retrieve fault codes, and Chrysler has inconsistently honored recall coverage depending on VIN and purchase history.
Same Dodge Nitro electrical reports on nearby years: 2008 · 2009 · 2010
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Stalling / Loss of Power While Driving
Vehicle loses all electrical power and engine shuts off without warning while in motion, coasting for several seconds before restarting on its own. Loss of power steering and brakes occurs simultaneously. Happens at speeds ranging from 30 to 80 mph.
When: Mostly early ownership (2007-2009), but recurs years later in some cases; mileage varies from under 5,000 to 100,000+
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of engine power while driving; All dashboard lights illuminate; Loss of power steering; Loss of braking power; Vehicle coasts 2-30 seconds before restarting automatically; No warning before event
Codes mentioned: TIPM failure (Totally Integrated Power Module), PDC sensor failure, TPIM module malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM replacement cost $625–$1,200. Multiple recalls and service bulletins issued but not consistently applied or effective. Some owners report repeat stalling after recall repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall G25 (2008) for TPIM reprogramming; NHTSA Campaign 07V291000 (Electrical System); some dealers unable to replicate issue or retrieve fault codes
Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) / Electrical Control Module Failures
Central electrical control module fails, causing erratic operation of multiple vehicle systems simultaneously. Failures recur even after replacement or reprogramming. Wiring inside and around the module can melt.
When: 2007–2021+; failures documented across full lifespan of vehicle ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Horn sounds repeatedly on its own; Windshield wipers activate without input; Windshield washer fluid sprays continuously; Door locks lock/unlock uncontrollably; Headlights turn on/off by themselves; Radio turns on/off without input; Dashboard lights illuminate and extinguish erratically; Engine misfires at speeds above 55 mph; Loss of cruise control function; Power windows malfunction; Brake lights illuminate without cause; Multiple warning lights (ESP, BAS, ABS, SRS) flicker; A/C blows hot when set to cold; temperature control fails
Codes mentioned: TIPM fault, Power Control Module fault, Invalid/unreadable codes, No codes retrievable in some cases
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM replacement $700–$1,000. Reprogramming attempted but often ineffective. Repeated failures after repair/replacement documented. Wires observed melting under fuse box area.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recalls G25 (2007–2008), 09V438000 (Visibility/Wiper Relay), J28 (Wiper Relay). Extended warranties sometimes denied, claiming TIPM is just a 'fuse box.' Many owners denied recall coverage after purchaseDealers often unable to diagnose or cannot replicate issue in shop.
Spontaneous Vehicle Fire
Vehicle catches fire while parked and engine off, with fire originating in steering column and dashboard area. Preceded by electrical malfunctions (warning lights, brake lights staying on, 4WD stuck). Fire spreads rapidly, consuming vehicle in approximately 4 minutes.
When: 2007, 2020; vehicles parked in driveway or parking lot
Symptoms owners cite: Warning lights flickering on and off before fire; Brake lights staying on overnight, draining battery; 4WD stuck and cannot switch to 2WD; Smoke rises from hood; Flames shoot from under hood; Total vehicle destruction
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle totaled in both reported incidents. Fire investigator determined fire origin as steering column and dashboard wiring in one case. Second vehicle had TIPM-related electrical history.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: In one case, manufacturer said someone would respond in 2 days, then 2–5 days; no follow-up documented. In second case, no response from Chrysler.
Power Door Lock Failures
Automatic power door locks fail intermittently or completely. Key fob buttons do not lock doors even though lights flash and horn beeps. Locks do not engage at driving speed as designed. Manual locks jam or are difficult to access. Trunk cannot be locked at all.
When: Throughout ownership; intermittent failures reported 2007–2020
Symptoms owners cite: Key fob lock button does not lock doors; Interior door lock buttons do not lock doors; Doors unlock/lock uncontrollably; Locks do not engage when driving at intended speed; Locks do not unlock when vehicle placed in park; Trunk cannot be locked; Rear door locks unreachable from front seat; Manual locks jam
Codes mentioned: TIPM error, Tripped ABS/transmission-related sensor
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM reprogramming ($100 diagnostic + variable labor); TIPM replacement $700 if reprogramming fails. Manual locking temporarily restores partial security. Trunk remains unlocked.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TIPM reprogramming often fails; permanent fix requires module replacement at owner cost. No recall issued for door lock failures.
Windshield Wiper and Washer System Malfunctions
Wipers activate on their own, get stuck in ON position, or stop working. Washer fluid sprays continuously. Relay module fails or needs reprogramming. Problem recurs after repair.
When: 2007–2020; failures intermittent or persistent
Symptoms owners cite: Wipers activate without input; Wipers get stuck ON and will not turn off; Washer fluid sprays continuously without input; Wipers seize or malfunction; Wipers inoperable
Codes mentioned: Wiper relay fault, Relay module update required
Repairs/costs cited: Relay switch replacement (first attempt). Relay module update/reprogramming. Wiper relay is part of TIPM; some sources indicate full TIPM replacement may be necessary. Failures recur after repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 09V438000 (Visibility) covers wiper relay updates/repairs. Dealers often update module but problem persists; replacement recommended but not always performed.
Horn Malfunction
Horn sounds repeatedly on its own, even when vehicle is parked and engine off. Sound continuous or intermittent over extended periods. No key in ignition or user input required.
When: 2007–2020; can last hours or days intermittently
Symptoms owners cite: Horn blares on its own repeatedly; Horn sounds while vehicle is parked; Horn sounds with no key in ignition; Horn sounds while engine is off; Horn cannot be silenced except by disconnecting battery or removing fuse
Codes mentioned: TIPM/electrical control module fault
Repairs/costs cited: Clock spring replacement ($674 in one case) did not resolve issue. TIPM replacement ($1,000) suggested but not guaranteed. Fuse removal disables horn; vehicle then fails state safety inspection.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers unable to diagnose root cause. Chrysler customer service declined responsibility in at least one case.
Interior Door Handle Breakage
Interior door handles break off in owner's hand or fail to function, made of cheap plastic that fractures easily. Renders manual door opening impossible when power locks fail. Occurs repeatedly across multiple doors.
When: Early to mid-ownership; first documented at 30,000 miles in one case; recurs on other doors
Symptoms owners cite: Door handle breaks off in hand; Door handle cracks or fractures; Handle cannot open door manually
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer charges $150 per door handle assembly to replace. Owner reports handles already stocked at dealer, indicating chronic problem. Parts are plastic, not reinforced material.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Dealer parts availability suggests Chrysler is aware of high failure rate but has not addressed design defect.
Fuel Tank Overflow / Rollover Valve Defect
Gasoline overflows when fuel pump automatically shuts off after filling, spraying fuel into owner's face and on clothing. Defect is in valve meant to prevent fuel leakage during rollover crash.
When: Multiple fill-ups; 3+ occurrences documented
Symptoms owners cite: Approximately 0.5 gallon of fuel overflows after pump stops; Fuel propelled toward owner during fueling
Repairs/costs cited: Fix requires fuel tank replacement at owner's expense. No warranty coverage documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Owner informed she must pay for repair out-of-pocket.
Brake System Failures
Brakes lock up unexpectedly in dry conditions, causing vehicle to feel as if hydroplaning. Brake illumination light comes on without emergency brake engaged. In one case, emergency brake caliper fell into wheel well, causing blowout on freeway.
When: 2007–2020; intermittent occurrences (2–3 times then stops)
Symptoms owners cite: Brakes lock up during normal braking; Delay in brake response; feels like hydroplaning on dry road; Brake illumination light stays on without cause; Emergency brake caliper mechanical failure (fell into wheel well)
Codes mentioned: ABS system sensor activation
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnostic testing at dealer ($100) sometimes reveals ABS/transmission-related sensor fault. Cause of lockup not definitively resolved in some cases. Emergency brake mechanical failure required wheel rim repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall for brake system (not specified) was performed in some cases without resolving the issue. TIPM reprogramming sometimes coincided with improvement.
Battery / Electrical System Drain
Battery drains excessively while vehicle is parked due to sustained operation of electrical components (brake lights, fan, radio) without driver input. Vehicle will not start after drain.
When: 2007–2020; overnight parking or extended parked periods
Symptoms owners cite: Battery dead after parked overnight; Brake lights stay on all night; Radiator fan runs continuously while engine is off; Radio runs while engine is off; Vehicle completely dead; will not crank
Codes mentioned: Alternator/charging system fault (possible), TIPM-related parasitic drain
Repairs/costs cited: Battery jump starts vehicle, but problem recurs. New battery installed in one case; light came back on while driving later.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific recalls for electrical drain. Some dealers suggest alternator may be faulty, but root cause unconfirmed.
Multiple Electrical Malfunctions Triggered Simultaneously by Key Fob
Using key fob to lock/unlock vehicle triggers uncontrolled activation of multiple systems at once: horn, wipers, washer fluid, door locks, dashboard lights, and engine systems. Problem persists after battery disconnection and fuse replacement.
When: 2007–2020; recurring episodes
Symptoms owners cite: Horn blares; Windshield wipers activate; Washer fluid sprays continuously; Door locks engage/disengage repeatedly; Multiple dashboard lights illuminate; Systems continue operating after key removed and battery disconnected
Repairs/costs cited: Fuse disconnection is temporary fix; fuses blow again when reinstalled. TIPM replacement ($750–$1,000) is required repair but not always covered by manufacturer.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler customer service initially directed owner to pull fuses; later refused to cover TIPM replacement under warranty, claiming no fault code. No recall issued.
Radio and Audio System Malfunctions
Radio turns on and off randomly, even with engine off and no key in ignition. Radio/disc player freezes or becomes unresponsive. Audio becomes buzzing or screeching sounds.
When: 2007–2020; sporadic or persistent
Symptoms owners cite: Radio turns on with no key and no input; Radio turns on when car door opens; Radio freezes/becomes unresponsive; Disc player freezes; Cannot change radio stations or volume; Radio only responds to ON/OFF button; Buzzing and screeching sounds; Radio clock resets to 12:00 AM (battery disconnect symptom)
Codes mentioned: TIPM fault
Repairs/costs cited: Restarting vehicle temporarily fixes audio issues. TIPM replacement may resolve, but not guaranteed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific recall for radio malfunction. Dealers unable to replicate issues in shop.
Headlight, Tail Light, and Dashboard Light Failures
Headlights turn on and off by themselves without input. Tail lights illuminate without cause. Dashboard warning lights flash or illuminate erratically, including ESP, BAS, ABS, SRS, and check engine lights. Lights may indicate false warnings or no warnings when problems exist.
When: 2007–2020; intermittent or persistent
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights turn on/off by themselves; Tail lights illuminate without input; Headlights fail to illuminate when needed (nighttime driving); Dashboard warning lights (ESP, BAS, ABS, SRS, check engine) flicker on and off; Warning lights illuminate but vehicle malfunctions without warning lights on; Warning lights stay on but vehicle operates normally; No warning lights illuminate when vehicle has serious malfunctions
Codes mentioned: Invalid/unreadable codes, ESP/BAS/ABS sensor faults, No codes retrievable
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnostic scanning often returns invalid codes or no codes. Root cause difficult to identify. TIPM-related electrical fault suspected.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recalls performed for ABS/ESP system, but problem often persists. Dealers sometimes unable to diagnose.
Power Window Failures
Power windows malfunction intermittently or completely. Passenger window rolls down but not up. Master power window switch stops working. Windows will not roll down when manual lock function needed (e.g., during power lock failure).
When: 2007–2020; early to mid-ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Passenger window rolls down but not up; Windows stuck in down position; Windows activate on their own; Master window switch fails; Windows only operate partially; Windows will not respond to button input
Codes mentioned: TIPM fault (likely)
Repairs/costs cited: Master switch replacement may resolve issue. No specific repair cost documented for windows alone, but TIPM-related failures require module work.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued specifically for window failures.
Turn Signal Malfunction
Turn signal sticks or switches directions uncontrollably. Opposite direction signal illuminates when one direction selected. Signal does not turn off after turn completed.
When: Documented in at least one case
Symptoms owners cite: Turn signal switches to opposite direction automatically; Turn signal continues flashing after turn completed; Turn signal stuck in ON position; Requires manual toggling on/off repeatedly to stop
Repairs/costs cited: No repair details documented in narrative.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued for turn signal malfunction.
Throttle / Pedal Sensor Malfunction
Accelerator pedal sensor malfunction prevents vehicle from maintaining or increasing speed during driving. Vehicle decelerates involuntarily on highway, creating hazard. Speed is artificially limited to 10–35 mph depending on malfunction severity.
When: Multiple occurrences; 2007–2020
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not accelerate past 10–35 mph in 55 mph zone; Pedal sensor malfunction detected; Involuntary deceleration while accelerating on interstate
Codes mentioned: Pedal sensor fault
Repairs/costs cited: No repair details provided in narratives.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued for throttle sensor malfunction.
Parking Brake / Emergency Brake Failure
Parking brake does not engage or hold vehicle on grades despite light indicating brake is set. Mechanical failure: brake caliper fell into wheel well, causing tire blowout.
When: Since new (2007) and intermittently
Symptoms owners cite: Parking brake light on but brake does not engage; Vehicle rolls on grade with parking brake set; Brake caliper mechanical failure (fell into wheel well); Brake line mechanical failure
Repairs/costs cited: Emergency brake caliper mechanical failure caused wheel rim damage and tire blowout. Repair costs not specified.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued for parking brake failures, despite mechanical failures documented.
Transmission / Shifting Problems
Transmission hesitation around 40 mph. Hard, clunky shifting in 2–3 gear range. Vehicle surges and then loses power or hesitates. RPM drops at stoplights and vehicle almost stalls.
When: Early ownership; 2007–2020
Symptoms owners cite: Hesitation at 40 mph; Hard, clunky shifting; Surging sensation; RPM drop at stoplights; Vehicle almost stalls at lights; Vehicle feels like it misfires while shifting; Gear shifter will not shift
Codes mentioned: Transmission module fault, Torque converter issue
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission module programming/reprogramming performed. Torque converter replacement attempted in one case. Issues often persist.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific recall for transmission issues. Service bulletins may have been issued.
Climate Control Malfunction
Air conditioning and heating systems fail. A/C blows hot air when set to cold. Heating system stops working. No temperature control.
When: 2007–2020
Symptoms owners cite: A/C blows hot air even on cold setting; No heating function; Temperature controls unresponsive
Codes mentioned: TIPM fault (likely)
Repairs/costs cited: Failures often coincide with other TIPM electrical malfunctions. Specific repair costs not documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific recall for climate control failures.
Alarm System Malfunction
Security alarm activates and deactivates repeatedly on its own while vehicle is parked, over extended periods (hours to days). Alarm does not reset properly after activation.
When: 2007–2020; documented overnight and over weekend
Symptoms owners cite: Alarm activates and stops repeatedly; Alarm continues cycling for 48+ hours; Alarm activates with no trigger (vehicle untouched)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to find cause or fault. Neighbor vandalized vehicle in one case due to alarm noise.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers state alarm should not reset itself once activated, but malfunction suggests design or programming fault. No recall issued.
Starting System / Battery Issues
Vehicle hesitates to start, cranks weakly, or will not start at all. Clicking noises from engine compartment during start attempt. Symptoms mimic weak battery but persist after new battery installation.
When: 2007–2020; intermittent or recurring
Symptoms owners cite: Slow cranking; Loud clicking from engine compartment; Will not start at all; Starts after battery jump or charger applied; Fuel pump runs/stops during start attempt
Codes mentioned: External fuel pump relay fault, TIPM-related power distribution fault
Repairs/costs cited: External fuel pump relay and harness replacement cost $435; harness kit alone costs $32.92. Repair sometimes flagged as recall but still charged to owner. Problem sometimes resolves with TIPM replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Conflicting information from dealers/Chrysler on whether part is under recall. Owner charged for service despite recall designation.
Gas Cap Warning Light / Fuel System Fault
Gas cap warning light illuminates even after cap replaced multiple times. Light persists despite correct fuel cap installation. Indicates false fuel system fault.
When: Chronic; 2+ years of owner experience
Symptoms owners cite: Gas cap warning light on; Light remains on despite gas cap replacement; Automatic engine start disabled due to false warning
Codes mentioned: Fuel system pressure sensor fault (likely)
Repairs/costs cited: Gas cap replaced twice; problem unresolved. Dealer unable to fix.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall or service bulletin documented for this issue.
Synthesized from 213 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 8 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Dodge nitro. The contact stated that all of the doors failed to lock and unlock electronically. The contact had to lock and unlock the doors manually. The failure recurred multiple times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the fuse for the door locks was replaced. The failure recurred. The contact also stated that the passenger side air bag warning…
Door locks have randomly stopped working. The key fob and interior buttons will unlock all doors and trunk but randomly will not lock. When using the key fob, the horn beeps and headlights flash but the doors do not actually lock. At times the doors still do not lock even after driving at 15mph, when they normally would lock automatically. When I took the vehicle to the dealership they charged me…
December 12, 2007: I started my vehicle and I did not have any headlights, any turn signals, back windshield wiper was running and would not turn off, no heated seat, etc. Etc. I had to wait until daylight to go to the dealership. They have had my vehicle ever since. It has only 4,000 miles. They state it that they will have to replace the entire instrument cluster. It has been 17 days now…
No more than 200 ft from my driveway my 2007 Dodge nitro horn just went off by itself for 15-20 minutes unable to go in gear or turn off truck after removing the battery cables it still ran on its own with no battery cables connected or key in ignition. Not will not crank at all or turn on but all lights, radio, and windows work. Happened chrismas day and now without transportation for me and my…
Original driver side master power window switch melted and stopped functioning. OEM Chrysler replacement purchased and installed at owner's expense. Two weeks later the replacement switch caught fire. Damage was only to the switch and wiring harness. No recall or service alert?
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Dodge nitro 4x4. The contact stated that the windshield wipers seized. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the relay switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the relay module needed to be updated. The vehicle was not…
I had a fuse blow in 2014 so I had my mechanic replace it. Ever since it has been replace my car no longer locks using my keyless entry. My windshield washer fluid never shuts off so I have to leave it unplugged. My hatch only locks when I manually lock it which involves removing the cover on the inside of the car. And now over the last few weeks when my car is parked it will unlock and the…
Had electrical trouble with your 2007 Dodge Nitro?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2007 Dodge Nitro?
It's a meaningful issue. 213 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 166 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 16,750 and 126,000 miles, with the median around 90,477. A quarter of owners report trouble before 16,750; a quarter make it past 126,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Dodge/Nitro.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.