Dodge Journey problems
The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' Dodge brand for model years 2009 to 2020 over a single generation, with a facelift for the 2011 model year. The Journey was styled by Ryan Nagode, and was marketed globally in both left- and right-hand drive, including as the Fiat Freemont.
Internally identified as the JC49, the Journey shares FCA's global D-segment platform with the Dodge Avenger and a nearly identical wheelbase to the outgoing short-wheelbase (SWB) Dodge Caravan.
Having debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Journey subsequently appeared at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. All models were manufactured in Mexico at FCA's Toluca Assembly facility, with just over 1.1 million manufactured before production ended in 2020.
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Dodge Journey model years
Common Dodge Journey problems
The Dodge Journey, a mid-size crossover SUV, has been in production from 2009 to 2020. While the model has received positive reviews in later years, the initial models faced a variety of issues, ranging from the drivetrain to the electrical system. These problems affected the vehicle's performance and reliability, making early models a riskier choice for potential buyers.
- Brake Problems: Brake issues were the most prominent problem, especially in the 2009 model. These problems include premature brake and rotor wear, noisy brakes, and calipers that lock up. Such issues pose a significant safety risk for drivers, especially those who frequently travel at high speeds.
- Engine Issues: Engine problems were the second most common issue in faulty Dodge Journey years. These problems include a dying engine while driving, ticking sounds from the engine, and a check engine light that remains on. Engine issues can be both expensive and dangerous, making it crucial to invest in a more reliable model.
- Interior Accessory Troubles: Interior accessory troubles, such as issues with the vehicle's door or window, can be both a nuisance and an unnecessary expense. These problems can deal with anything from the vehicle's door to the car's window and everything in between.
- Interior Water Leaks: Interior water leaks can be a significant issue, especially in the 2010 model. This problem can lead to costly repairs and should be considered when purchasing a used Dodge Journey.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems can be a significant issue in the Dodge Journey, affecting the vehicle's performance and reliability.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical problems, such as issues with the remote keyless entry system, can be a common issue in the Dodge Journey.
- Overheating Engine: Overheating engine issues can be a significant problem in the Dodge Journey, affecting the vehicle's performance and reliability.
- Worn Out Brakes: Worn out brakes can be a safety risk and an unnecessary expense in the Dodge Journey.
- Head Gasket Problems: Head gasket problems can be a significant issue in the Dodge Journey, affecting the vehicle's performance and reliability.
- Malfunctioning Remote Keyless Entry: Malfunctioning remote keyless entry can be a significant inconvenience in the Dodge Journey.
When considering a used Dodge Journey, it is essential to research specific model years and consult consumer reviews before purchasing. It is also recommended to invest in thorough inspections and understand the vehicle's history to avoid future headaches. While the Dodge Journey has seen its ups and downs, the latter years presented better options for those seeking a balance of price, performance, and reliability.
Do Dodge Journeys have problems?
While the Dodge Journey may be reliable, some model years can run into issues like interior water leaks, a malfunctioning remote keyless entry system, an overheating engine, head gasket damage, and premature wear on brakes.
Is a Dodge Journey a reliable vehicle?
Overall, the Dodge Journey is a decent vehicle in reliability. Although there are a few faults with the model, it's a decent ride if you invest in one of the best years.
Do Dodge Journeys have transmission issues?
Dodge has announced that 26299 vehicles have been affected by a Transmission recall.
Why was Dodge Journey discontinued?
Dodge discontinued the Journey in 2020. The reasons for its demise were likely its aging platform and increasing competition in the mid-size SUV segment.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Journey years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Journey cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Journey model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Journey model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Journey years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Journey car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Journey , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Journey vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Journey model years
A total of 201 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 Journey model years
There were a total of 101 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 Journey model years
There were a total of 236 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 Journey model years
There were a total of 1 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 5159 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Journey . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Journey vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Journey 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB7JT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: While care was parked, daughter (11yo) leaned around passenger seat with her forearm against the left side of the head rest to talk to her mother. Randomly and suddenly the head rest safety mechanism deployed. No one was seriously injured but it did leave a mark on my daughter's arm. Looks like the plastic inside is cracked on the right side where the pin holds the restraining pin that keeps the headrest from deploying. Have not taken yet to the dealer. There were no warning signs prior to deployment. Potentially could've been worse if someone was sitting in the seat when it occurred.
Dodge Journey 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 3D4PH5FV2AT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: My active headrests on the front seats have suddenly sprung, i.e. they have opened up. The car was parked in my yard, no other vehicles around, no accident/fender bender. I went out one day and the headrests were both opened up. This is a known problem for Dodge (at the time it happened, I researched) and they did extend the warranty for ten years; however, my vehicle is a 2010 so past that extended warranty. This is an expensive fix. I am a senior on a fixed income and wonder if there is any way to remedy this problem?
Dodge Journey 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 3C4PDCGGXFT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Passenger Side Head Rest deployed. Plastic Clips Broke.
Dodge Journey 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB4DT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I was driving to work and my ABS and Traction control light came on while driving in the rain and started hydroplaning on the highway now my brakes are not working properly
Dodge Journey 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG6CT
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the RPM quickly increased but the vehicle was only able to reach a maximum speed of approximately 10 MPH, prompting the contact to pull to the shoulder of the roadway where the failure persisted. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission and observed metal shavings inside the transmission casing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 124,000.
Dodge Journey 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB1JT
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My Cadillac converter is going bad. I only had my truck for 3yrs now. Also the steering and suspension diag/power steering system flush. Can I get a feed back to what shall I do or what can be done. Feel free and contact me at [XXX] mobile number. Email [XXX] Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dodge Journey 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 3C4PDCBB5KT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Rear camera only turns on 30% of the time. The camera is in the rear view mirror and when it doesn’t work it puts a black screen in the rear view mirror putting many lives in danger.
Dodge Journey 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3C4PDCGGXJT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving at approximately 5 MPH, the passenger’s side headrest detached. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger’s side headrest needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Dodge Journey 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB0CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that after it rained, the ABS warning light illuminated, and the speedometer gauge dropped to "0 MPH”. The contact stated that the warning lights illuminated after it rained; additionally, the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that water was entering the ABS module and the ABS module needed to be replaced. The mechanic notified the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V675000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.
Dodge Journey 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3C4PDDEG9ET
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The ABS module has failed. There was a recall R61 issued previously for this issue of moisture causing ABS module failures. The original recall was completed on this vehicle [XXX]. There is no documentation that the ABS module itself was replaced at that time since this is a tiered recall. The ABS module has now failed and there is evidence on the electrical plug that moisture was present during a recent inspection by an ASE certified mechanic. I took the car to Academy CJD dealership in Tipton, Indiana and they refused to perform the recall again since it supposedly had already been completed. They wanted to charge me a fee to 'diagnose' further. I contend that even though the recall or partial recall was previously completed, the ABS has failed due to the issue the original recall was supposed to prevent. I have a picture of the ABS electrical connector showing evidence of shorting due to moisture. Please let me know if Dodge should be required to complete the recall again, since the ABS failed again. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dodge Journey 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB0ET
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: In May after tires rotated the abs warning lights started coming on took my dodge journey back to dealership they analyze it and found it was the abs system but there was no part to order to repair the system.
Dodge Journey 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 3C4PDCGG0HT
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2021 Tires had wear. Was told Rack and Pinion was out needed to be replaced. Should not drive due to possible loss of steering. Repairs with parts from Dodge. 2024 Ties had wear. Was told Rack and Pinion needed to be replaced. Should not drive due to possible loss of steering.
Dodge Journey 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3C4PDCGB6LT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Backup camera works when it wants to. Most times it's upside down, or staticky. Dealership says the only fix is to replace it, but we can't afford that. It's a safety hazard.
Dodge Journey 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB4JT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: My headlights become unseeable at times, its difficult to see the road. My cruise control has got stuck and at one point accelerated on its own, and my 3rd row seats have no seat belt buckles. No one has confirmed my vehicle. There has been some recalls.
Dodge Journey 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
- VIN: 3C4PDCGG7JT
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The active headrest deployed while sitting in the car hitting my wife's head. It is damaged and cannot be reset.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Journey
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 50 recalls for different components of the Dodge Journey.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Journey 2018
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-29
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. The amber side reflex reflector assembled into the headlamp may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: A dim reflector may reduce the visibility of the vehicle to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the headlamp assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z99.
- Model: Dodge Journey 2017
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-29
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. The amber side reflex reflector assembled into the headlamp may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: A dim reflector may reduce the visibility of the vehicle to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the headlamp assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z99.
- Model: Dodge Journey 2018
- Report Received Date: 2018-08-09
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan and Jeep Compass, 2018 Dodge Journey, and 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
- Consequence: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began September 29, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U86.
- Model: Dodge Journey 2018
- Report Received Date: 2018-08-09
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
- Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
- Model: Dodge Journey 2018
- Report Received Date: 2018-06-14
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. When reverse gear has been selected, the rear camera view may not be fully visible within two seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
- Consequence: If the full camera view is delayed and the driver does not check their surroundings before backing up, there may be an increased risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview mirror, free of charge. The recall began August 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U58.
Latest negative Dodge Journey car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Journey car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
My wife suffers from collapsed disks in her back, which causes her a lot of pain. Despite being only 32 years old, she experiences back pain that is usually associated with people much older than her. Driving a car was particularly painful for her, as the seats were too close to the floor. However, on Valentine's Day 2019, we decided to trade our 2011 Camry XLE for a new 2018 Dodge Journey. Although the Camry's V6 engine was much faster than the 2.4 world engine in the Journey, we were familiar with the latter from our previous experience with Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The 0-60 time of 9.5 seconds may not be the fastest by 2019 standards, but it is more than enough for the rural area of Ohio where we live. Our Journey is a left-over 2018 model, and it is a base SE with the backup camera, blacktop package, and Bluetooth/Satellite and Leather Steering wheel package. Despite its modest price of $18,500 (thanks to the rebates we received from FCA and Ganley Motors in London, OH), we are impressed with its quality and performance. The interior is decent, and the engine noise is well subdued except when accelerating. The 4-speed is a bit outdated, but the torque converter is pretty high stall, which allows the engine to rev fairly freely to make the most of its modest output. The car looks much more expensive than it is, thanks to its black color and tinted windows. Most importantly, the seating angle is higher than our old Camry, which has significantly reduced my wife's pain as she drives all over the state for her job. Although the fuel economy could be better, 22-23mpg combined is not too bad.
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Vehicle year: 2017
At first, I wasn't sure about the dated body style, but I grew to appreciate it because of its utility. The visibility is great, unlike my Nissan Rogues from 2009-2012, and the Journey is much more fun to drive and rides better than the Town and Country I traded in for it. I was amazed by the features I got for the money, and the capacity is awesome. The Journey uses the same steering wheel controls as the T&C, so it was easy to get used to. I love taking a Sport Ute on the back roads in the national forests near where I live, and the Journey has the ground clearance, suspension, and power to handle that well. It essentially replaced my '99 Jimmy, which was becoming a money pit, and also has the utility of the T&C which I traded. While the automatic transmission could use a few more forward speeds, it's still much better than the Nissan CVT.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I purchased my Journey used with only 3000 miles from a Dodge dealership in late 2017. The dealership had over 10 SUVs available for me to choose from, all of which were previously used as loans and rentals. After some friendly haggling, I was able to drive off the lot with my new SUV for a total cost of $15,321.86, which I thought was a great deal. The stock 4 cyl. engine is perfect for hauling loads or a trailer of less than 1000 pounds, but it's not the fastest car on the road. However, it gets the job done and will get you from point A to point B. I don't use much of the electronic features, as I prefer to use Google Maps on my phone and listen to news radio for information and traffic reports. So far, I haven't had any maintenance issues. There is a little wind noise from the roof rack, but I still recommend it. If you have a lead foot, the transmission may not be the smoothest, but the seating comfort is good and the carrying capacity is fair. Visibility out of the Journey is not the best, but installing 3
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Vehicle year: 2015
Last September, my family and I went on vacation to Orlando where we rented a Journey SXT. As a VW Jetta owner, I was initially worried about the car's size, but we ended up loving it so much that we decided to invest in a RT JOURNEY V6 upon returning to Brazil. While there is also the Fiat Freemont available, which is the result of a joint venture between Dodge and Fiat, it only comes with a four-cylinder engine. I test drove it and unfortunately found it to be quite awful. On the other hand, the Journey has been an excellent car for us - strong, comfortable, and beautiful, just like our supermodel Gisele Bundchen :).
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Vehicle year: 2012
In 2012, I purchased the 3.6L Crew AWD with Heated Seats and found it to be the perfect fit for my lifestyle. As a young adult, I was looking for something sporty, but with enough cargo space to accommodate my needs. The 3.6L AWD Journey exceeded my expectations in terms of fuel economy, performance, and interior space. Despite coming from a 5.7L F-Body, I was impressed with the Journey's acceleration and handling, which also offered much better fuel economy. I was even able to fit a whole bedroom furniture set in the back! The vehicle's dynamics kept the tires firmly on the ground, even in the tightest turns. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Journey?
Keshawn Schinner 2025-07-25
Vehicle year: 2010
I purchased my 2010 Journey used in 2015 with 45,000 miles. Unfortunately, I had some issues with the car. The gas gauge wasn't working and the rotors were bad. I also had to replace the oil pan and the key, which was quite expensive. Additionally, I've had some trouble with water leaking into my car on the passenger side due to debris getting into the AC hose. This caused some damage to my relay switch and coolant reservoir. Recently, I discovered a pinhole in my motor which caused my antifreeze to leak and overheat. Despite these issues, I have enjoyed using this car to attend greyhound events with my two large greys, and it's perfect for hauling my 27' camper and two kayaks. However, I have decided to part ways with it. Thank you for considering my experience with this car.
Raoul Schowalter 2025-07-14
Vehicle year: 2013
Since the first day, I have experienced issues with the radio, alarm, remote start, and the transmission. The AWD system also does not function properly. Despite driving the car for 36,000 miles, the computer does not show any errors. However, I have filed a lemon law claim and I am confident that my concerns will be heard and addressed.
Halle O'Keefe 2025-07-11
Vehicle year: 2018
I am extremely dissatisfied with my 2018 Journey. Despite purchasing it brand new, it has been in the shop four times within the first four months due to a persistent noise in the front end. Although the shocks and two other components were replaced, the issue still persists over a year later. Additionally, I have recently experienced electrical problems, such as the radio turning the volume up to 40 while driving and the back fan for the air/heat turning up on its own. As a customer, I am thoroughly disappointed.
Lindsey Heaney 2025-07-06
Vehicle year: 2019
I am extremely dissatisfied with my 2018 Journey. Despite purchasing it brand new, it has been in the shop four times within the first four months due to a persistent noise in the front end. Although the shocks and two other components were replaced, the issue still persists over a year later. Additionally, I have recently experienced electrical problems, such as the radio turning the volume up to 40 while driving and the back fan for the air/heat turning up on its own. As a customer, I am thoroughly disappointed.
Fletcher Flatley 2025-07-04
Vehicle year: 2009
This is an example of why it's important to do your research before purchasing a new vehicle, especially from FCA Chrysler/Dodge. Unfortunately, we had some issues with our transmission and rear differential while on a cruise, as well as some problems with the engine pulleys and electronics in the doors. However, we did have a great experience with the brakes and the engine's performance. The climate control did fail a couple of times, but overall, we had a comfortable ride. When it was time to trade in the vehicle, we were pleasantly surprised by the trade-in value. While we won't be purchasing a Journey again, we appreciate the good times we had on the road.