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 defrost, lower and center console vents. Heated air only exits the driver's side windshield and driver's side dash vents. Problem persists through all cabin air modes, and circulations. This safety issue effects visibility and…
2012 dodge Avenger visibility problems
moderate 84 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $350
Complaints
84
Recalls
0
Crashes
1
Avg fix
$350
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
THE VEHICLE BLOWS HOT AIR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE, BUT COLD AIR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. SINCE IT IS BLOWING ONLY COLD AIR ON ONE HALF OF THE WINDSHIELD THE WINDOWS ICE UP, FREEZE UP AND FOG UP. THIS IS A DRIVING HAZARD, SINCE THIS IMPAIRS VISIBILTY.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 DODGE AVENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEFROST SYSTEM BECAME INOPERABLE WHILE DEFROSTING THE WINDOWS IN THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000. *TT THE CONSUMER STATED DEALERSHIP FIXED THE PROBLEM AND INSTALLED A NEW HEATE…
Common questions
How serious is the visibility problem on the 2012 dodge Avenger?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 84 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $350 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the visibility typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $350 for visibility 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 visibility?
No active recalls currently cover visibility 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.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. 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.
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