Dodge Durango problems
The Dodge Durango is a mid-size/full-size SUV produced by Dodge starting with the 1998 model year. The first two generations were very similar in that both were based on the Dodge Dakota and Dodge Ram, both featured a body-on-frame construction and both were produced at the Newark Assembly Plant in Newark, Delaware through the 2009 model year.
The third-generation Durango began with the 2011 model year. It is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, features unibody construction, and has been assembled at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan since late 2010.
Each generation had options for different engine sizes and power ratings, with different transmissions also. In 2009 a hybrid variant was introduced, but ended quickly with the second generation Durango. From 2007 to 2009 the Durango was available as the Chrysler Aspen from Chrysler. Over two million Durangos have been sold since it was introduced in 1998.
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Dodge Durango model years
Common Dodge Durango problems
The Dodge Durango is a powerful SUV that has its fair share of problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners:
- Water Passing Through the Windshield's Cowl Screen: Some Durango owners have reported water passing through the windshield's cowl screen during heavy rainstorms or when going through a car wash. This problem can be solved by investing in a revised cowl screen at approximately $88-$111.
- Clogged Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Tube: A clogged EGR tube can result in engine stalling or a rough idle. However, this problem has a simple fix - cleaning the EGR tube will often solve the problem.
- Failing Camshaft Position Sensor: Dodge Durango vehicles with the 5.7-liter V8 engine may experience a failing Camshaft position sensor, causing the engine to stall or not start. This requires a replacement Camshaft position sensor, generally costing $88-$111.
- Musty Smell in the HVAC System: Some Durango owners have reported an unpleasant musty smell circulating in the HVAC system. To combat this problem, Dodge offers a cleanser and an evaporator coating to help prevent odor-causing bacteria.
While these problems are inconvenient and frustrating, most of them are not too serious. However, a problem that is cause for concern is the stalling engine caused by a clogged EGR tube or failing Camshaft position sensor. According to RepairPal, drivers experiencing these issues have had their Durango stall while driving on the highway or turning at an intersection, resulting in one driver calling the engine failure "very scary and dangerous".
Despite its problems, the Dodge Durango has received overall positive reviews from critics. Car and Driver gives it a score of 8/10, stating that while it may not be the most practical SUV, it is one of the coolest. In particular, the reviewer notes that the Durango is fun to drive, with a comfortable ride and an impressive towing capacity.
In summary, while the Dodge Durango has its fair share of problems, it is generally well-reviewed and may be a good bet if you're hunting for a Dodge SUV. However, it's essential to understand a vehicle's pitfalls before you commit.
Are Dodge Durangos reliable cars?
The Dodge Durango is a fairly reliable model for mid to full-size SUVs. RepairPal has rated the Durango a respectable 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking it as the third most reliable full-size SUV out of 14 models. The website also estimates the annual average repair cost of the SUV is $675, giving it an average ownership cost.
What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?
The Dodge Durango years to stay away from include:
- 1999.
- 2000.
- 2004.
- 2005.
- 2011.
- 2012.
Do Dodge Durangos last long?
The Dodge Durango usually lasts from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained. Data from the Department of Transportation reveals that, on average, car owners in the U.S. drive 13,476 miles per year. That suggests your Durango could last 14 to 18 years, depending on your driving style and range.
Is it worth buying Durango?
Overall, the Durango is an excellent and underrated SUV that's easy for me to recommend. UPDATE FEB 2022: Still love the Durango, no issues. With the v8 dying off, the higher-end models (SRT/Hellcat) will only go up in value. Get one while you can!
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Durango years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Durango cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Durango model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Durango model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Durango years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Durango car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Durango , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Durango vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Durango model years
A total of 673 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Durango model years
There were a total of 369 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Durango model years
There were a total of 718 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Durango model years
There were a total of 119 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 13526 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Durango . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Durango vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Durango 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1C4RDHDG3MC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Durango. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated, and an alarm sounded. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact turned off and restarted vehicle. The contact stated that while attempting to shift from park(P) to drive(D), the gear shifter became stuck in park(P). The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the vehicle operated as needed after a while. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times while driving. The vehicle was towed to Newnan Peachtree Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (53 Hollz Pkwy, Newnan, GA 30265); however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was then towed to John Thornton Chevrolet (1971 Thornton Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122). The check engine warning light and an unknown warning lights were illuminated. The dealer diagnosed that bank #1 camshaft position actuator two (2) and the CAN BUS communication outline had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage 80,000.
Dodge Durango 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1C4SDHCT7DC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2012 Durango. While driving, Battery symbol appeared on dash. I immediately started to pull over , by the time i got to a safe area, there was smoke coming from under the hood. I opened it and saw smoke coming directly from the alternator. After the smoke dissipated, i tried to turn on the vehicle and it would not start. I towed the vehicle home, changed the alternator and the battery with new items from Autozone, and the vehicle still would not start. There were no codes popping up as well. Towed it to the dealership and it turned out that it fried the ECM. Why wouldnt there be a fuse or something to protect the computer from a surge off of the alternator. Well, the dealer changed out the computer and with intermittent issues afterwards, the car would not start all the time. thought the starter was going bad. Changed that and it was still having issues, not starting. took it back to the dealership. after the dealership replaced the starter (to verify that it wasnt the issue), it turns out the TIPM is partially burnt out. So the alternator broke both computers.
Dodge Durango 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1C4SDJCT2DC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving on the highway last night, my husband smelled smoke and then his eyes began to burn. As he was about to pull over, a flame fell from the passenger sun visor! There was more smoke and fire as he pulled over. The car became engulfed in flames fairly quickly. Thankfully he was alone without other family members (or our dog) and he was able to get out safely. He had to stand on the side of the highway waiting for responders. It was towed and we are in the process of speaking with insurance and figuring out what to do next. Today we researched Dodge Durango car fire and came across the recall from 2014 which SPECIFICALLY said passenger sun visor fire hazard! Clearly that is exactly what happened. We have proof that we brought the vehicle to the dealership in 2014 to complete this recall. However it appears based on internet searches that this was still an issue even after recalls were performed. There were no warnings/messages prior to the failure.
Dodge Durango 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C4RDHAGXJC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: There is definitely something wrong with the headrests on the durangos. I was vacuuming my seats and i used the passenger lever to push it back and the headrest on the passenger side popped out and now the clips are broke & it wont pop back in. They definitely need to look into the headrests and fix this issue.
Dodge Durango 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C4RDHAG1HC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Started the vehicle, my wife was in the passenger seat. The headrest exploded apart and hit her in the back of the head. It hit her pretty hard in the back of the head. She had a headache but no medical attention was needed. I'm hoping this does not happen to the drivers side while I am driving.
Dodge Durango 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1C4RDHDG4MC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LF DRL not working only on this side. Vehicle was taken to dealership, I have an extended warranty but was told this was not covered. There are 4 other Durangos in my town with the same problem. I have also been online and found numerous forums with other people having the same issue. I would like have this noted so that Dodge can acknowledge this issue and fix it.
Dodge Durango 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1C4RDHEG6EC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: While vehicle was being driven, passenger headrest spontaneously deployed/exploded, hitting passenger in the head with strong force, causing significant head, neck and shoulder pain.
Dodge Durango 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1C4SDHCT9DC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing difficulty starting. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired at the contact's expense; however the failure reoccurred approximately two months later. The contact contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V813000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Dodge Durango 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1C4RDJAG6MC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Drivers side LED running light died - this issue has been all over the internet on 2021 Durango SXT Plus, and other Durango vehicles with LED bulbs. Bulbs themselves cannot be replaced - the entire housing must be, and the price is extreme for the product. This is a Dodge safety issue, not a personal one!
Dodge Durango 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1C4RDJDG0KC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On the morning of 10/09/2024, I started my 2019 Dodge Durango and exited the vehicle, after 2 minutes the entire interior of the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The drivers side seat warmer appears to have malfunctioned causing the vehicle to set of fire, including glass break, paint peeling and interior burning
Dodge Durango 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1C4RDHAG0MC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ABS module and Traction control lights have come on.
Dodge Durango 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1C4SDHET9EC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Sitting at the light and driver side active head restraint deployed into my head.
Dodge Durango 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 1C4SDJET8DC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: My vehicle tends to overheat quite often. The water pump I've had to change five times within the past 5 years The radiator and patch change up three times and the thermostat I've had to change out three times. There's also the transmission shifting gears issue and get stuck on low and I can't move the vehicle.
Dodge Durango 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 1C4RDJDG8HC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Bought a used 17 durangoGT on July 29th 2024 notice a crack in tail light and told the used car manager about it and brushed it off now there is an issue with racetrack light and water is getting in and is now half lite the dealer said there isn’t a problem so took it to dodge and had a 2nd option and they said it was the crack and on top of that there is a class action lawsuit against dodge for the track light and it can cause electrical issues and license plate light and rear camera issues this is unsafe and I got a invoice from dodge of the issue too
Dodge Durango 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1C4RDHDG6DC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My 2013 Durango with 124,000 miles has a check engine light on, that indicates cylinder 4 miss fire. The Airpark Dodge service department where I purchased the vehicle has done a diagnostic evaluation and determined that the left cylinder head needs replacing. That falls within the X56 engine left cylinder head extended warranty for some VIN # vehicles, but not mine. The estimated repair is over $5000.00. I am told that the engine can cease up while driving, and that I should not be driving the vehicle. I think my vehicle should be included, especially since this X56 warranty extension has been out since 2014. How do I get this X56 warranty on my vehicle? And how do I get reimbursed for the cost of the repair?
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Durango
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 147 recalls for different components of the Dodge Durango.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Durango 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-13
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the radio software or the software will be OTA, "Over-The-Air," free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 9, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbers for this recall are 66B and 79B.
- Model: Dodge Durango 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-13
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the radio software or the software will be OTA, "Over-The-Air," free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 9, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbers for this recall are 66B and 79B.
- Model: Dodge Durango 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-06
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Durango and Ram 2500 and 3500 vehicles. Due to a software malfunction, the ABS control module may disable the electronic stability control system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
- Consequence: Driving with a disabled electronic stability control system can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the ABS control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 11, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 55B.
- Model: Dodge Durango 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-18
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Dodge Durango Pursuit vehicles equipped with an instrument panel mounted shifter. The shifter may experience an interference with the shifter boot and come out of gear while driving, which can result in a sudden loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the instrument panel mounted shifter boot, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 7, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 94A.
- Model: Dodge Durango 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-23
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
- Consequence: A damaged rear spoiler can detach and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rear spoiler, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 9, 2023. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 20A. This recall is an expansion of recall number 21V-842.
Latest negative Dodge Durango car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Durango car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2015
I traded in my ML500 for the Citadel and I couldn't be happier. It's one of the best SUVs I've ever owned and it blows the MB away.
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Vehicle year: 2017
This is our 3rd Durango and we are loving it! My wife drives it and finds it very comfortable. We chose the 3.6 for its good looks, decent gas mileage and the fact that our family is spread out. Even though we have a Ram 1500 sport for heavy towing, the 3.6 is still plenty strong and can reach 60MPH in just 7 seconds. The AWD is outstanding and the sport mode button makes back roads a blast. I also appreciate the rugged and tough stance of the unibody design. Overall, we are very happy with our purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2017
I've owned Volvos, BMWs, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota and Mazda over the years, but this is my first American car. So far, I'm really enjoying it and the entertainment system is great. I do have a question about the auto stop feature that shuts off the engine when the car is stopped. While it does help save gas and increase MPG by 1, I'm wondering if it could cause premature wear and tear on the engine. It's good to know that the feature can be turned off though.
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Vehicle year: 2016
We're so glad to hear that you love your new vehicle! It sounds like it's really comfortable and perfect for your needs. While you mentioned that you wished you had gotten the tow package for the extra capacity, it's great to hear that you still love it overall. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I compared the mileage of our previous car, the Tribute 2WD, with the Durango Hemi 2WD. During a 2000 mile trip at $3.00 per gallon, we found that we would pay approximately $35.00 more to drive the Durango. However, the Durango offers more room, power, and improved interior services such as third row seating and rear heat/ac controls. In terms of value for money, the Durango is larger, quieter, stronger, and more powerful. The increase in insurance coverage is only slight ($5.00/mo.) over the Tribute. Although we would spend $390 more on fuel annually, I believe that the increased safety, comfort, and carrying capacity make it worth the price. For clarification, we own the 2005 Durango SLT 2WD with the Hemi engine. Thank you.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Durango?
Ahmed Bogan 2025-04-21
Vehicle year: 1999
I really appreciate the design, space, and characteristics of this vehicle. However, I have had some issues with it, including multiple transmission jobs, a faulty front passenger window motor, and peeling/rusting bumper. Unfortunately, this has caused some inconvenience for me and the two people who rely on this vehicle for work. While I am frustrated with these issues, I am hopeful that they can be resolved. I am hesitant to purchase another Dodge or Ford at this time, but I am open to exploring other options. Thank you for your understanding.
Garry Flatley 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2005
I've owned my 2005 Durango SLT w/ HEMI since September 2005. Unfortunately, I've experienced a few issues with it. Firstly, the CD player stopped ejecting CDs within the first month. Secondly, the front passenger door was bent and required adjustment by the dealership. Thirdly, there is a constant air leak from all windows which can make it rather noisy inside at speeds of 60+ mph. Additionally, the overdrive off (or as they call it tow/haul) works intermittently. Lastly, when going down steep hills in 2nd gear, the vehicle tends to accelerate and slow down on its own, making it difficult to maintain a constant speed. Despite having a HEMI, it is not as powerful as I had hoped and lacks pickup. In comparison, my LIBERTY accelerates better.
Billy Hermiston 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2017
Hi there! I recently had to have my SUV towed to the dealer and unfortunately, it turns out that the system update performed 2 days earlier removed some of the functionality that I rely on for towing. As someone who is frequently in and out of the cab while hooking up or parking, having a frame of reference on the ground is really important to me, which is why I often leave the door open. I was disappointed to find out that this feature had been removed without my knowledge. However, I do want to give a shoutout to Chad for taking great care of the situation! He deserves a 5-star rating for his excellent service. While I'm frustrated with the Dodge corporation for removing a feature that I paid for, I'm hopeful that we can find a solution. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Norbert Rohan 2025-04-10
Vehicle year: 2022
At just 500 miles, I experienced a strange metal noise when accelerating and noticed that the steering wheel was off alignment. As I continued to put more miles on the vehicle, additional problems arose, leading me to question the overall quality. It's important to be aware of these issues and not solely rely on YouTube reviews, which may not accurately reflect the experiences of real owners. Based on my personal experience, I would not recommend purchasing a Dodge vehicle. It's best to stay away.
Kareem Nitzsche 2025-04-02
Vehicle year: 1999
Hello! I wanted to share my experience as an owner of a 99 Dodge Durango. While I have had to spend some extra money on repairs, overall it drives decently. However, I did want to warn you about the oil pump issue that can cause the engine to burn out over time. I have found that this is a common problem in many Dodge Durangos, and I actually read about it on Consumer Affairs. If you're interested, you can check out the article here: http://consumeraffairs.com/automotive/dodge_dur_oil.html. Thanks for taking the time to read this!