What are the most common Dodge Durango problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 7,230+ owner reports, the 1998-2023 Dodge Durango has 12 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues, Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L/5.9L Magnum V8), Ball Joint Failure - Safety Recall. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Durango reliable?
The 1998-2023 Dodge Durango has 12 known issues documented across 7,230+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues and Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L/5.9L Magnum V8) and Ball Joint Failure - Safety Recall. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Durango problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Durango issues range from $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues, typically costs $200-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Dodge Durango is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Dodge Durango. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1998-2023 Dodge Durango with 12 documented issues documented across 7,230+ owner reports.
What is the 2011-2018 Dodge Durango TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues?
The TIPM can develop internal relay failures causing various electrical problems including no-start conditions, fuel pump not activating, horn honking randomly, and other erratic electrical behavior. This is a known Chrysler issue. Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 1998-2003 Dodge Durango Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L/5.9L Magnum V8)?
The plenum gasket between the intake manifold and engine block fails, allowing engine oil to be sucked into combustion chambers. Causes excessive oil consumption, pinging, and visible oily sheen inside intake manifold through throttle body. Common on all 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum V8 e… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: high.
What is the 1998-2003 Dodge Durango Ball Joint Failure - Safety Recall?
Upper and lower ball joints wear prematurely, causing clunking, loose steering, and in worst cases wheel separation. NHTSA recall issued for 2001-2003 models. Same components used in 1998-2000 models which share the design. Failures reported as early as 49,000 miles. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2023 Dodge Durango 8-Speed (ZF 8HP) Transmission Issues?
The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic can experience harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking, particularly when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. While generally reliable, some owners report shift quality concerns. Repairs typically run $150-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango A/C Compressor/Dual Zone Climate Issues?
The A/C system can develop issues including compressor failure, blend door actuator problems, and dual zone climate control malfunctions. Rear A/C systems add complexity. Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango Water Pump Failure (Pentastar V6)?
The water pump on the 3.6L Pentastar V6 can fail, causing coolant leaks and overheating. The pump is internal and driven by the timing chain, making replacement labor-intensive. Typically fails between 80,000-120,000 miles. Repairs typically run $800-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2020 Dodge Durango Alternator Failure?
The alternator can fail prematurely, causing charging system issues. The Durango has many electrical systems that put demand on the charging system. High electrical loads accelerate alternator wear. Repairs typically run $350-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 1998-2009 Dodge Durango Transfer Case Seal Leaks (NV242/NV244/NV247)?
Input and output shaft seals on NV242, NV244, and NV247 transfer cases fail from heat cycling and age. Causes fluid leaks, grinding or whining noise during 4WD engagement, and 4WD indicator light issues. Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2015 Dodge Durango Durango Uconnect Radio Software Vulnerability — Remote Access Safety Recall (15V461000)?
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) recalled 2014-2015 Dodge Durango SUVs whose radios contain software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems. This is a safety recall, not an infotainment convenience bulletin: NHTSA warns that exploitati… Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango HEMI MDS Lifter Tick?
HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the MDS lifters. This is most noticeable at idle and during light acceleration. While often not immediately harmful, it can indicate lifter wear. Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2014-2021 Dodge Durango Uconnect Infotainment Issues?
The Uconnect infotainment system can experience freezing, random reboots, and connectivity problems. Bluetooth pairing issues and touchscreen responsiveness problems are common. Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear?
The front lower control arm bushings can wear prematurely, causing clunking noises, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear. The Durango's weight accelerates bushing wear. Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: low.
