2012 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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Common 2012 Dodge Journey problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2012 Dodge Journey, several common problems have been reported:
- Brake Issues: A significant number of complaints relate to brake problems, including premature brake wear and problems with the ABS module. Owners have described instances of the ABS and ESC lights illuminating, delays in braking, and the brake pedal going to the floor when trying to stop. Premature brake wear has been a recurring issue, with reports of calipers sticking and needing replacement, even after replacing calipers and rotors multiple times.
- Engine Stalling: Another common problem reported by owners is engine stalling while driving. Multiple engine components have been identified as potential issues, including the camshaft, crankshaft, cylinder heads, and catalytic converter. Some owners have had to replace the entire engine after reaching 100,000 miles due to these issues.
These problems with the 2012 Dodge Journey highlight a range of reliability issues that owners have faced, from annoying electrical malfunctions to hazardous brake and engine problems. It is advisable for potential buyers to thoroughly research and consider these issues before purchasing a 2012 Dodge Journey.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Journeys?
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 Dodge Journey 2012 a good car?
Smaller than the typical mid-sized SUV, this version of the Journey is a dated and mediocre performer. It rides well and is quiet, but that's about all. It suffers from a lack of agility, lousy fuel economy from the optional 3.6-liter V6, a reluctant transmission, and a tiny third-row seat.
How many miles can a 2012 Dodge Journey last?
Unfortunately, since the lifespan of the Dodge Journey is only 130,000-180,000 miles, it's not a good idea to purchase one with more than 100,000 miles. The only good reason to do that would be if you want to spend less money and are set on the Dodge Journey. In that case, don't expect the car to last for very long.
Is there any recalls on a 2012 Dodge Journey?
Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 DODGE JOURNEY AND FIAT 500 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 24, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 2011. SOME VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH CONTAMINATED BRAKE FLUID AND MAY EXPERIENCE A DEGRADATION OF THE SEALING COMPONENTS WITHIN THE BRAKE SYSTEM.
Is Dodge Journey 2012 a good car?
Smaller than the typical mid-sized SUV, this version of the Journey is a dated and mediocre performer. It rides well and is quiet, but that's about all. It suffers from a lack of agility, lousy fuel economy from the optional 3.6-liter V6, a reluctant transmission, and a tiny third-row seat.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Dodge Journey?
The 2012 Dodge Journey's engine has also been problematic for owners. Another quarter of NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Journey relate to the engine. Most owners report the engine stalls while driving. While no specific cause has been identified, multiple engine components seem to have issues.
Do Dodge Journeys have engine 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.
How long do 2012 Dodge Journeys last?
Since a Dodge Journey lasts 130,000-180,000 miles, high mileage for the Dodge Journey is anything at or above 100,000 miles. At this point, it could start to run into some serious problems and even might break down on you unexpectedly.
2012 Dodge Journey car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Journey problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Dodge Journey vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Dodge Journey
The NHTSA has received 360 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Dodge Journey. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Dodge Journey vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- 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.
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB0CT
- Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine problems
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG8CT
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: We've owned this vehiclenot even 4 years. It had an engine recall that it was part of. It says it was repaired, however it never recieved a new engine. Now I just spent $9,000+ to replace the entire engine because of the exact issue of the recall: metal fragments in the engine. Why did I pay for this recall problem? Did dodge replace the engine during the recall? Paperwork says no, but shows it was "repaired". If it was replaced, why did I replace it again for the exact same issue? Dodge has financially ruined our family. Besides this $9k we've spent $6k on engine work before the new engine, $4,500 on transmission work (with more to come as we're currently experiencing transmission issues) and $6k + on all kinds of issues that has never occurred on any vehicles I have owned in the last 30 years. And we've spent all this in under 4 years. This is unacceptable! For an american auto maker to produce and sell vehicles like this. This is why we people buy foreign. This dodge IS NOT a well built, trustworthy and dependable car. You won't believe how many times we've had to miss school and work because the car was broken down or being repaired. Our Honda civic was 20 years old, ran better and was 100% dependable. I never had to replace the engine, do ANY transmission work or have had half the problems with my civic than I have had and currently have with this "american" car that is only 11 years old. As a 1 income family with 2 kids in college and one still in high school, this is completely devastating to us. Trying to save money and get ahead and ALL OF IT has been spent fixing this vehicle. Dodge has completely devastated our family. How can an American auto maker be allowed to get away with producing vehicles like this? Why should I have to go bankrupt owning a dodge? Why won't they accept responsibility for their defective product? I've spent $25,000 fixing this dodge in 4 years. I can't afford to fix it or buy a new car. We're ruined
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG1CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was soft, and the vehicle made an abnormal grinding sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the failure might be related to the ABS module. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the vehicle had previously been repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V675000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and that additional repairs would be at the owners expense. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-15
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG3CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My cars ABS, traction control, emergency break lights came on and I went to look up what was wrong and other 2012 dodge journeys have a recall on the problem that is wrong with my car (R61). I only have 1 recall on my specific car. So now I have to pay to replace the part.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-05
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB6CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The ABS module has failed and no replacement parts are available. The vehicle cannot get passed inspection from the state of Texas because this module failure. No service facility can't get them part needed to repair brakes.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- VIN: 3C4PDCBGXCT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Abs, brake, and traction light coming on coded c2200-49 told there was a recall and when I called the dealership they said it wasn't for my vehicle but they couldn't even order the part because they're having to replace them on so many and they are not in stock anywhere until after April 15th. If this has been an issue with other vehicles and is currently an issue with mine why is it not under the recall??? 2012 Dodge Journey sxt
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
- VIN: 3C4PDCDG2CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: Airbag light is on. P06DD Engine oil pressure control circuit performance /stuck off
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG9CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: March 10th 2023 . Driver side door panel Caught on fire. The panel has was replaced by National Auto Sales 3 times. It renders me (the owner) of 2012 dodge journey not to able to open the driver side door & all the windows. I think this is very dangerous & a safety issue.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
- VIN: 3C4PDDBG6CT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Headrest on drivers and passenger seats came apart when seat was layed forward to clean the floors.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-18
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG2CT
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Without warning or physical contact, front passenger headrest deployed. Had someone been in the seat at the time, an injury would have occurred as parts came flying out of it when it deployed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
- VIN: 3C4PDDEG9CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The car shifts super hard into second gear. The inside smells like the car is over heating,driving down the interstate the car losses power,you can push your foot to the floor and nothing,the car will not excelerate at all.It's extremely dangerous. You have to pull over turn the car off and then on again to get it to go. This happens about every 20 minutes or so,the heat only works in the driver vent and the smell gives you a headache and makes you sick to your stomach. The vehicle is not safe at all. The catalytic converter gives gas off into the cabin.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C4PDCEG3CT
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The electrical is so messed up the battery drains within hours, I have shorts in all aspects of this car(Bluetooth, navigation, clicking relays nonstop, heat goes out intermittently, power switches on doors. I saw my headlights surging in power in the middle of nowhere, they would get bright, then go dim, then a battery icon illuminated on my dashboard before my car downshifted so hard I almost lost control of the car. The dealer replaced my motor mounts and my alternator, after calling to say my battery is bad and then turned around and said it wasn’t. Not to mention my brakes locked up in a little rain and I couldn’t stop crashing through a wall. Replaced my rear light turning bulb and it exploded with fire when I went to change it. The suspension is horrible and I am pretty sure my cv axles are all broken. Everything keeps breaking. Lifter Taps intermittently, rough idling and hard shifting. Key fob doesn’t start car or is recognized with fresh batteries in it. When I jump start it sometimes the horn goes off for a minute. The reverse camera goes out for days and randomly comes on again. Under the hood feels so extremely hot and for some reason it doesn’t register as overheating. Even when I check fluids and for the coolant levels are low for some reason. There is an actuator That constantly is going off under the dash. Airbags didn’t deploy when i hit the wall at all. The limp mode has come on and gone off a few times. Only codes I have is for tps and an outdoor ambient temperature sensor that says it’s either negative 40 degrees or 122 degrees. Which won’t let me clear nor allow me to remote start. Warranty is gone and when you take the fuse box cover off under the hood(just the cover) it goes haywire shaking and lights all over the dash and I have to shut the car off. Yes somebody please inspect this vehicle. The absolute worst vehicle I owe 12k on and I can’t afford to fix all of this that’s shutting down at the same time
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-24
- VIN: 3C4PDDBG6CT
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: On vehicles with the 3.6l Pentastar engine, the oil pump fails before 150,000 miles causing DTC P06DD to trip which instantly puts the vehicle into "Limp Mode". This immediately cuts down the power to the engine which slows everything down potentially causing you to be hit by other traffic. It also causes a hefty repair bill. This is a very common issue known to the repair shops and dealers. My family has a 2012 Dodge Journey with this engine. A local and well known mechanic shop performed extensive diagnostics and confirmed this issue. The repair took hours to complete. The repair shop did replace other parts that could potentially cause this problem, however, it did not resolve the issue. There were/are no warning signs; simply the engine light comes on and the vehicle goes straight into limp mode with immediate decline in power.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-05
- VIN: 3C4PDCBG7CT
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil filter housing broken internally
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
- VIN: 3C4PDDBG9CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: So I the wiring harness in the hatch needed replaced. So we replaced it and a year later the interior light would come on randomly, then my rear wiper stopped working, all my rear light are messed up sometimes they work sometimes they don't. And not the computer says don't ajar so I can't lock my 2012 journey and the alarm goes of randomly... I'm afraid it's gonna catch fire like I have been reading online.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB7CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Abs light and show it and I have proof cost back up cam don't work and going cost me more 1500.00 on the repair check and recall
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-20
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB5CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The ABS light was on in the car. Took to a repair shop and they replaced the ABS Module. Said it fell under R61. But then my re-imbursment was declined because they said my vin did not have the problem. But putting in a new ABS module and reprogramming fixed the issue. How do I get refunded for the failure of a break system that should never have happened? Please call me 979.216.8043
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-31
- VIN: 3C4PDDDG3CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY FAMILY AND I ,WAS GOING THROUGH ANINTERSECTION WHEN SOMEONE RAN RED LIGTH WE PERFORMED AN EMERGENCY STOP APPLYING BRAKE PEDAL WHERE ABS KICKED IN ,NO COLLISON ACCURED BUT THE ABS AND BRAKE PEDAL SYSTEM "DID NOT'' RECOVER WITH THE PEDAL CONTINUE TO FADE TO FLOOR AFTERWARDS ..... THERE ARE NO CURRENTLY NO VISIABLE LEAKS ON BRAKING SYSTEM AND BRAKE PADS BOTH FRONT AND REAR ARE 8-10 MM IN THICKNESS
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-18
- VIN: 3C4PDDBG0CT
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: The crankshaft position sensor as well as a oil leak from the motor and has intermittent start delays these failures I found on this sight that affects my vehicle make & model year my engine 3.6 when I accelerate the overdrive doesn't engage and i took it to Nyle Maxwell in San Antonio where it's at now I also have the diagnosis that matches what is posted here on this site & 3 open recalls that suggest other years may be affected.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-06
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB8CT
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine shut off and wouldn’t start up again
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-15
- VIN: 3C4PDDBG1CT
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle started to lose motive power. The contact stated that numerous warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle stalled and the contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that she had experienced the failure with unknown warning lights illuminated prior to the failure however, the contact was able to restart the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the failure and found that water had entered the ABS module and caused the failure. The mechanic had advised that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V675000 (Electronic Stability Control, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-15
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB3CT
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light and the traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the driver's side wheel sensor, the passenger's side wheel sensor, and the crank position sensor were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V675000 (Electronic Stability Control, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to a second dealer, Darcars Orange Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (7233 Blanding Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32244) for recall repair; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-20
- VIN: 3C4PDCAB1CT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: As I was braking to enter the on-ramp of Hwy 1923 from Asheville, I noticed for the second time, my brakes were not slowing me down as usual, instead, they acted as if they were slowly grabbing. As I speed up to the correct speed limit, It seemed as though my brakes started to grab again without me depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle made a throbbing, and vibrating sound. All this after just having taken the vehicle to my mechanic for the same problem two days prior. The back brakes were replaced, the front brakes looked fine, and everything was checked out. Two days later brakes started acting up again, not working normally and acting as if thay are grabbing and vibrating the vehicle! No warning lights were shown. Next step is the Dodge Dealer. Another very aggravating glitch that the Dodge Dealer said that didn see, is the fact that every time I park the vehicle, I have to turn the sterring wheel a certain way before the battery will shut off, if not the battery will be drained!
2012 Dodge Journey recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2012 Dodge Journey.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may unexpectedly deploy if the air bag wiring harness gets chafed within the steering wheel and short circuits.
- Consequence: Unexpected deployment of the driver's frontal air bag increases the risk of a crash or driver injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air bag wiring within the steering wheel, replacing it if necessary. A protective cover will also be installed. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T47.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured July 31, 2007, to November 12, 2016. After exposure to cold temperatures, the power steering return hose may rupture at engine start-up causing a loss of power steering assist.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist may require extra steering effort, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering return hoses, steel tubes, and power steering oil cooler, free of charge. The recall began on May 24, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S08.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured April 21, 2012, to April 14, 2015. In the affected vehicles, water may enter the wiring harness for the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module and leak into the module, disabling the ABS and/or the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
- Consequence: If the ABS or ESC is disabled, a loss of vehicle stability could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will seal the ABS wiring harness to prevent water from entering and will replace the ABS module and repair the headlamp and dash wiring harness, as necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R61.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured July 19, 2010, to May 26, 2015 and equipped with 2.4L engines. In the affected vehicles, the engine cover may detach from the engine and contact the exhaust manifold.
- Consequence: If the displaced engine cover contacts the exhaust manifold, there would be an increased risk of a vehicle fire.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install an improved mounting system for the engine cover, free of charge. The recall began on October 15, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R32.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
- Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 DODGE JOURNEY AND FIAT 500 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 24, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 2011. SOME VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH CONTAMINATED BRAKE FLUID AND MAY EXPERIENCE A DEGRADATION OF THE SEALING COMPONENTS WITHIN THE BRAKE SYSTEM.
- Consequence: THIS COULD LEAD TO LOSS OF BRAKING ABILITY INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE ALL BRAKE COMPONENTS THAT COME IN CONTACT WITH HYDRAULIC BRAKE FLUID. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 1, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHRYSLER VEHICLES, INCLUDING 200 AND TOWN AND COUNTRY MODELS, DODGE VEHICLES, INCLUDING CHARGER, DURANGO, GRAND CARAVAN AND JOURNEY MODELS AND JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 31, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13, 2011, THAT ARE EQUIPPED WITH 3.6L ENGINES. THESE ENGINES MAY EXPERIENCE CONNECTING ROD BEARING FAILURE DUE TO DEBRIS INSIDE THE ENGINE BLOCK.
- Consequence: CONNECTING ROD FAILURE MAY LEAD TO ENGINE SEIZURE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE ENGINE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 18, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Negative 2012 Dodge Journey car reviews
Positive 2012 Dodge Journey car reviews
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Wow, right off the bat, I love this car! There are too many things to say, and only 616 characters remaining to type. Not only is this car a great seller, but it's also Canada's best-selling crossover under 35k.
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[2022 Update] Hi there! Just wanted to share that our Journey is still going strong with 151K miles on it! We've had no major issues to note, except for having to replace the alternator, which is pretty normal around the 150K mark. Our fuel mileage hasn't really changed at all, we're still getting around 25mph on the highway (at 60mph), and 14-16 in the city. The combined mileage floats between 16-18 depending on the highway miles. Also, I wanted to mention that we tow a small travel trailer for camping and the Journey does pretty well. Obviously, it's not a heavy-hauler, but it does fine. We've put several thousand towing miles on it, and the only real issue is that it heats up on steep passes when the outside air temps get into the 90's. If we have to tow in the heat, we take it slow and let the car cool down a little before hitting the big passes. [2020 Update] We've now had the Journey for 6 years, and it's been a great car. We've put 120K miles on it, with 10K road trip miles of 300-500 miles/day, most of which towing a small travel trailer. The Journey keeps taking the hits in stride :) Originally, I recall seeing some complaints on here around resell value, but the longer we own the Journey, the more the depreciation curve starts to flatten out. We currently have 120K miles, and it looks like our trim resells for $9-10K private sale. For comparison, a Honda Pilot with 120K resells for $12-13K, so all things considered, they're much closer in price now (when we bought our Journey for $20K in 2014, comparable Pilot's were going for $30-35K). We've had a few issues, but nothing major. The Bluetooth module had to be replaced in 2016, but no problems since. The Journey died on the freeway, and we had to get a tow, but then it started the next day at the dealership's shop. They said it was a fluke, but blamed the fuel system and replaced the fuel pump under warranty. It was 110-degrees in Phoenix, so I suspect something in the ECU/electronics overheated. Again, probably a fluke, but Dodge took care of us with the warranty.The only other issue we had with our Journey was the outside-air blender door, which stopped actuating in 2017. However, we were able to get it repaired free of charge (except for a $100 deductible) as part of our extended warranty. So far, all repairs have been covered under warranty, and we paid only $22.5K for our Journey with the warranty. If you plan on keeping your Journey past 100K miles, then you won't have to worry about depreciation and maintenance. We only had one major issue, which was covered under warranty. Some of the negative reviews mention the drop in resale value after a new purchase, but that's part of what makes the Journey such an amazing used car. You can get a lot of car for your dollar with the Journey. Also, something the dealer might not tell you is that you can still get amazing extended warranties directly through Dodge on used cars. There might be limits on how old the car can be, but we were able to get an extended full-coverage plan for a great price on a two-year-old Journey with 40k miles. After our $100 deductible, nearly everything else is covered. So take advantage of the drop in resale value and get a warranty through Dodge. We've owned our 2012 Journey for three years now and have had very few issues outside of regular maintenance.
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I'm glad to hear that you've had a positive experience with your vehicle! It's great to know that the Mopar backup camera works perfectly on the 8.4 inch screen. I'm also happy to hear that the dealer was able to replace your scratched driver's side window and worn track guides and glass for free under warranty. Your Thule cargo system sounds like a great addition, and it's wonderful to hear that you've been able to travel to Upper Peninsula Michigan and Williamsburg Virginia without any issues. It's good to know that your vehicle still rides smoothly, and I hope that replacing the tires within the next year will help maintain that. Overall, it sounds like you made a wise investment!
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This thing is really fun to drive, maybe a little too much fun. It only took me a day, maybe a total of an hour's worth of driving, to figure out the controls and set everything to my liking. The acceleration is pretty good, really smooth when you hit it. Mind you, I'm one of those people with 2 speeds - on and off, but it's not jarring and very responsive.
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Hi there!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Dodge Journey problems:
2012 Dodge Journey Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Top 2012 Dodge Journey Problems · The Remote Keyless Entry System May Not Work intermittently · Dampness Inside the Vehicle Due to a Water Leak · The Engine may ...
AWD having issues - All Wheel Drive (AWD) - Dodge Journey Forum
Jan 6, 2014 ... We just bought in Oct a 12 Dodge Journey SXT AWD and it has been a headache since. It had 34000 miles on it, so still under warranty and we ...
2012 Dodge Journey Problems Involve Recalls and Complaints with ...
May 16, 2022 ... The 2012 Dodge Journey has six recalls on record with the NHTSA. The most severe recalls involve defective electrical components that impact the ...
2012 Journey SXT - Owner Impressions - Dodge Journey Forum
May 10, 2018 ... More common complaints are about maps getting corrupted or HVAC blowing hot on one side, cold on the other, clunking front end and transmission ...
2012 Dodge Journey Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Dodge Journey? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Dodge Journey
Are you having problems with your 2012 Dodge Journey?
Joesph Feeney 2024-10-06
I can confidently say that my 2012 Journey 3.6 FWD has been disappointing in terms of fuel efficiency. Despite having only 1600 miles on it, I am only getting 12.2 MPG on the freeway and 11.6 MPG in the city. This is my second time bringing it back to the dealership. Interestingly, my 2004 Yukon V8 with 120000 miles on it was getting better MPG when I traded it in for the Journey. I was getting 11 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the freeway with the Yukon. I thought I was making a smart choice, but unfortunately, it seems that I was mistaken.
Terry Wolff 2024-07-19
My wife drives this car and takes great care of it. Unfortunately, we've had a few issues with it. At almost 100K miles, we noticed some loud ticking from the lifters. We had one lifter replaced by Power Trane, but 4K miles later, we started hearing more lifter tick noise. Additionally, the transmission has started slamming into place around 80K miles. We also had to replace a wheel speed sensor at 55K miles. It's been a bit frustrating, especially since my other car has 160K miles without any problems. However, we're hopeful that we can get these issues resolved soon.
Lenny Kohler 2024-07-17
We purchased a 2012 Dodge Journey in December 2012, but unfortunately, we have experienced a recurring vibration issue in the rear end. Despite taking it to the shop over 7 times, the issue persists. If anyone else has experienced this problem, we encourage you to go to Dodge and voice your concerns. We have driven a 2010, 2012, and 2013 model, and all of them have exhibited the same issue. It would be great if Dodge could issue a recall to address this problem. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Nelson Rau 2024-05-25
I strongly advise against purchasing this vehicle. As an owner of a 2012 Journey SXT 3.6L for 5 years, I experienced numerous electrical problems since the time of purchase. Whenever I stepped on the brake pedal, all the lights in the SUV would turn on due to the wires for the brake lights in the back being pulled apart every time I opened the trunk door. Additionally, the steering wheel controls only worked intermittently, and the suspension made a loud crunching sound when going over bumps, which I was told was normal. As a result of these issues, I traded the vehicle to a dealership, which was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Fredy Greenholt 2024-05-19
I purchased this car brand new in late 2011. Unfortunately, I have had a couple of repairs for the seat and the engine is not as powerful as I had hoped, resulting in poor fuel economy. It's disappointing that a four-cylinder engine can only get an average of 16 miles per gallon. Additionally, the transmission can be jerky at times. As I have just passed 50,000 miles, I can say that this is the worst car I have ever owned. Unfortunately, the resale value of this car is not great, which is a bit of a bummer. I have also noticed that the trunk light turns off if it is more than halfway open, which seems to be a defect that has been overlooked. Each time the liftgate is closed and opened, it pinches wires in the top part and frays them, which is a big safety issue. Hopefully, this issue can be resolved soon.