Dodge Durango Reliability
Is the Dodge Durango Ready to Take on the Role of Your Ultimate Family SUV?
Dodge Durango reliability is a frequent consideration for many SUV shoppers, and it’s an important factor to weigh, especially given that most owners hold onto their vehicles for six to eight years. Long-term dependability plays a major role in making the right choice for an SUV that will last.
Key Takeaways
Model Year Variations: Some Durango model years, like 2018, have more complaints, making it important to review reliability by year.
Common Issues: Durango suffers from electrical and transmission problems, with more severe issues like engine damage due to oil cooler failures.
High Maintenance and Recalls: Durango has above-average maintenance costs and recalls for ABS and steering problems, so staying updated on safety notices is key.
In the competitive SUV segment, the Durango has carved out a unique position by offering a bolder personality compared to conventional family haulers. While it may not top the sales charts, partly due to limited marketing focus, it has cultivated a dedicated following.
The vehicle's appeal extends beyond mere functionality, as demonstrated by special editions like the remarkable Hellcat variant, which showcases the model's performance potential.
But what truly distinguishes the Durango is its successful fusion of muscle-car spirit with family-friendly features, including modern safety technologies and sophisticated driver assistance systems.
So if you are wondering, is the Dodge Durango Reliable? Here's what owners are reporting.
Common Issues Affecting Dodge Durango Reliability as Reported by Owners
Electrical and Infotainment Systems
The Dodge Durango experiences notable electrical challenges, including unresponsive touchscreens and connectivity problems in the infotainment system. Dashboard lights can behave erratically.
Owner feedback highlights some minor issues with burnt-out headlights and flickering exterior lights, particularly in the tail light assemblies, which often require complete replacement due to faulty gasket seals.
Mechanical Concerns
The Durango's reliability can be affected by transmission problems that manifest as hesitation or rough shifting, particularly at lower speeds. Engine-related issues have included broken rocker arms, problematic gaskets, and clicking noises from the engine compartment. The air conditioning system may develop complications, characterized by hissing sounds and insufficient cooling performance.
Engine and Control Systems
More severe mechanical problems include oil cooler failures, where coolant mixes with oil, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage. The Electronic Stability Control system can malfunction due to throttle position sensor issues, affecting traction control.
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Additionally, various electrical problems plague different vehicle systems, including parking sensors that may trigger false alerts, especially during winter conditions, even when no obstacles are present.
While some owners note occasional issues with water pumps and mechanical components like lifters and camshafts, these problems aren't widespread.
Recalls and Safety Issues
Recent safety concerns have emerged for the Dodge Durango, particularly affecting 2022 models. A significant recall announced in June 2024 impacts over 53,000 Durango units due to a software malfunction in the ABS control module. This issue can disable the electronic stability control system, increasing crash risks and violating Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 126.
The manufacturer plans to notify affected owners by July 26, 2024. Additionally, a separate recall affects 2021-2022 models due to steering gear rack bar problems that could lead to steering control difficulties.
While these reliability concerns might sound serious, Dodge has been proactive in addressing them.
The manufacturer is providing free repairs through authorized dealers, including software updates for the ABS module and steering gear assembly replacements where needed.
These recalls highlight the importance of staying informed about safety notices, though they don't necessarily indicate long-term reliability issues when properly addressed through official channels.
Overall Maintenance Outlook
According to CarEdge, the Dodge Durango is estimated to cost around $10,766 for maintenance and repairs over its first 10 years on the road.
This amount exceeds the industry average for popular SUV's by $2,516. Additionally, there is a 30.99% likelihood that the Durango will need a major repair within that decade, which is 7.52% higher than the average for similar vehicles in its class.
To ensure optimal Dodge Durango reliability, owners should adhere to the detailed service intervals provided by the manufacturer. This includes regular inspections of critical components, timely replacements of wear items, and addressing any emerging issues promptly.
By following these guidelines, Durango owners can maximize their vehicle's longevity and maintain its value over time.
Dodge Durango Reliability: Important Model Year Differences to Watch For
Not all Dodge Durango's are equally reliable. Whether you're in the market for a brand-new model or considering a pre-owned option, it’s important to know if a particular model year stands out for having more owner complaints than average.
Reviewing reported problems across all model years can give you valuable insight into the potential issues and options you might encounter with this vehicle.
Right now, complaint trends are generally as expected—except for the 2018 model, which has a noticeably higher number of complaints than other model years. Keep this in mind as you research and compare models.
- First Model Year: 2017
- Model Category: SUV
- Where It's Built: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Dodge Durango Reliability Report
Learn what owners are reporting to the U.S. government.
DATA SOURCED DIRECT FROM
NHTSA
Is the Dodge Durango Model Year You're Considering Reliable? Get a Reliability Report to Find Out!
Considering a Dodge Durango but concerned about its reliability? With a Car IQ Report, you can make an informed decision by accessing detailed reliability ratings for the specific model year you're interested in. Discover what issues owners have reported to the U.S. Government that Dodge may not be addressing under warranty.
Uncover any safety concerns, including accident reports, and learn whether owners are experiencing serious issues like breakdowns or minor cosmetic problems. Get 10-day access to all car reliability reports, including all Dodge Durango models and vehicles from other manufacturers.
All data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), giving you trustworthy insights at your fingertips.
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Discover what real owners are saying about the vehicle you're considering, uncover which features have caused issues, and find out what problems may not be covered by warranty. Elevate your research and make an informed decision with Car IQ Report.
