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: 2010
I opted to downsize from my minivan. The car is stylish, comfortable, and considerably quieter than my former car. The cost was considerably less than other comparable SUVs that I looked at. Driving is smoother too.
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Vehicle year: 2014
The American Value Package is an amazing deal! It includes options that would cost extra from other manufacturers. The car is perfect for city driving and handles the interstates with ease. I can't think of a better car with so many options for such a great price. We decided not to get the third row seating as it would take up all the storage in the vehicle, leaving only enough space for one suitcase standing on end. Since we are only two people, we primarily use the car to transport ourselves. However, we do take our two grandchildren on occasion and need the storage behind the seating. I'm not sure how this affects the acceleration, but mine gets up and goes pretty well!
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Vehicle year: 2019
In 2016, I purchased a used 2013 SE that had been driven long and hard beforehand. Despite this, it proved to be very reliable. The following year, I bought a new SE and was very pleased with it. However, due to my wife's arm operation, we needed a power driver's seat. As a result, we recently upgraded to a new 2019 Crossroad and we are once again very pleased. The low price, smooth ride, reliability, relative comfort, noise reduction, UConnect for the phone, rearview camera, Sirius XM and spaciousness all perfectly fit our needs.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I absolutely love my Red Crossroad plus! I've had it for four months and driven 5500 miles, and it's been a fantastic experience. I opted for the 4cyl engine due to special pricing, and it has exceeded my expectations. The ride is top-notch, and the interior is incredibly quiet with minimal road noise. I traded in my 2010 Honda Accord, which I really liked, but the road noise was a big distraction. The Journey, on the other hand, has a tight, supple ride, crisp handling, and nice steering. It's surprisingly spacious inside, and the crossroad plus has all the bells and whistles, including a fantastic nav system and backup camera. The vehicle turns heads as I drive by, and it's a splendid road trip vehicle. In fact, we took a trip from Texas to Utah and Colorado and had a wonderful time. So far, I haven't had any problems with the car, and I'm very happy with it. Update: It's been four more months since my last review, and I love the Journey even more. With 8000 miles on it, the gas mileage is even better as it gets broken in. It's still as quiet and comfortable as ever. I give it FIVE STARS PLUS! Great job, Dodge!
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Vehicle year: 2017
If possible, consider getting the V6 as it offers superior technology and all the bells and whistles that make driving a dream. While the 4CYL is adequate, it offers nearly identical fuel mileage. Additionally, Dodge currently has some great rebates and incentives available, which means you can get the top of the line model for a great price.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Journey?
Jamar Johnson 2025-09-10
Vehicle year: 2011
Three days after purchasing this Journey battery, it went dead and the car wouldn't start. It seems there is an electrical issue or short circuit in the car, causing the windshield wipers and other systems to malfunction.
Hilbert Block 2025-09-02
Vehicle year: 2015
The negative reviews regarding the 4-cylinder model are unfortunately true. However, I was assured by the salesman that the engine had been improved since the days of the PT Cruiser. While the PT Cruiser ran great, the Journey's extra weight causes some issues with acceleration. Despite this, the price is reasonable and the appearance is satisfactory for the cost. It is worth noting that the engine components appear to be made of plastic and the battery location is not ideal. Overall, I am satisfied with my purchase, but it is important to keep in mind that you get what you pay for.
Verner Luettgen 2025-08-27
Vehicle year: 2010
This car has been a disappointment since the beginning. In the first month of ownership, I had to replace the front tie rods on the driver's side. After a year of ownership and only 62,000 miles, I had to deal with leaking transmission cooling lines and a failing transaxle coupling, which cost me $4,300.00. Unfortunately, this has been the worst car I have ever owned in my 31 years of driving. While it may look nice and have a great sound system, the acceleration is sluggish at best, and the average MPG in town is only 17 MPG and 20 HWY. The interior is low-end, but that is reflected in the price. The seating is not comfortable for longer travel, and the hidden storage is practically non-existent. The back storage is okay, but only if you fold all the rear seats down. Additionally, the visibility is terrible due to the very wide corner posts on each side of the front and rear windows. Overall, I would not recommend this car to anyone.
Dillan Kuhn 2025-08-25
Vehicle year: 2013
We chose the Dodge Journey because it was a great value and spacious enough for our family of six. It even gets better gas mileage than a mini van! While the seats are versatile, we did notice that with all seats up, the car's blind spot doubles. Additionally, the rear-most seats combined with the middle seat block more than half of the rear window and all of the side windows. We did find the middle seats difficult to return to an upright position when someone needed to get out from the back. The stow bins are quite shallow and small, making them practically worthless. Although the car seats are not the most comfortable, we did appreciate the middle seat stows for when we needed to leave our purse or electronics. We have had very few recalls on this vehicle and no major problems with the transmission or engine at this point. We get about 22 average mpg when we don't use a/c, which drops to 18 mpg with a/c. Overall, we have been pleased with our purchase, but now that our family has grown, we have noticed that the far back seat is not as comfortable due to limited leg room, especially with three teenagers, one of whom is a boy.
Charlie Batz 2025-08-22
Vehicle year: 2012
I purchased a 2012 Dodge Journey SXT and unfortunately experienced transmission issues at only 1600 miles. Despite attempts to resolve the issue, including flashing the computer, the problem persisted. It is disappointing to hear that Chrysler's engineering department considers this a characteristic of the vehicle. It is important for car manufacturers to take responsibility for any issues with their products. I hope that Chrysler will address this issue and work towards a solution for their customers and dealerships.