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Dodge Durango
SUV · Gas · 34 versions · owner report
Ranked #19 of 19 midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed but leans positive, with a clear generational divide.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 1 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentLED headlight/DRL failure
Complete assembly replacement required at high cost ($1,600-$2,300 USD); very common, with some owners noting water ingress in tail lights as a related issue.
- RecurrentWater pump failure
A known issue on Hemi V8 engines.
- RecurrentExhaust manifold bolt failure
Broken bolts on Hemi V8 engines causing exhaust leaks.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentInfotainment system software bugs
Glitches, freezes, and connectivity issues in the updated Uconnect system for 2021+ models, requiring multiple dealer visits.
- RecurrentFuel pump relay failure
A known issue in earlier third-generation models (subject to recall), causing a no-start condition.
- RecurrentInterior space limitations
Cargo space behind the third row is tight for large families, necessitating roof racks for long trips.
- IsolatedLifter/camshaft wear ("Hemi tick")
A potential issue on Hemi V8 engines, mitigated by frequent oil changes.
The version owners recommend
For the refreshed generation (2021+), the R/T trim with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and the ZF 8-speed transmission is frequently recommended as the best balance of performance, reliability, and value. The Tow 'N Go (TNG) package is highlighted as a desirable addition for those needing maximum towing capability. For the V6 models, the SXT Plus trim is noted as offering better value and features than the base GT. There is a strong consensus to avoid the first model year of the third generation (2011) and to prioritize 2014 and newer models to ensure the superior 8-speed automatic transmission.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.
Is the Durango right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed but leans positive, with a clear generational divide. Long-term owner reports for the third generation (post-2011) generally describe it as a reliable, powerful, and practical family hauler when properly maintained. The V8 Hemi engines and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission (available from 2014 onward) receive consistent praise for strong performance, smooth operation, and durability. The vehicle is commended for its confident highway cruising, comfortable ride derived from its Mercedes-Benz-influenced suspension, and superior towing capability for a unibody SUV. However, there is a recurrent theme of criticism regarding specific, known component failures (e.g., water pumps, LED headlights) and concerns about interior build quality and infotainment software bugs in refreshed models (2021+). The brand's historical reputation for unreliability, particularly from pre-2011 models, continues to influence broader perceptions, but actual feedback from third-generation owners often contradicts this stereotype, citing good long-term reliability with proactive care.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more powerful, truck-derived alternative to mainstream three-row crossovers like the Highlander, Pilot, and Telluride, with a focus on V8 performance and higher towing capacity. It is frequently compared directly to the Ford Explorer, with owners noting the Durango's more premium interior materials and superior ZF 8-speed transmission as advantages, while the Explorer may offer more interior space. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is acknowledged as a near-identical platform sibling, with the Durango's key advantage being its longer wheelbase for third-row seating and increased cargo space. Against premium European competitors like the BMW X5, the Durango is seen as offering comparable performance (especially in SRT/392 trims) at a lower purchase price, though with higher long-term running costs and less refined interiors.
Recommended configurations
The 5.7L Hemi V8 is strongly preferred over the Pentastar V6 for its perceived reliability and performance, despite a fuel economy penalty. The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission (available from 2014+) is considered a major upgrade over the older 5- and 6-speed units and is highly recommended. All-wheel drive (AWD) is suggested for improved traction and resale value. For 2021+ models, owners recommend verifying infotainment software is up-to-date to address bugs. An extended warranty is suggested for peace of mind, particularly for high-performance SRT models. Regular and frequent fluid changes for the engine oil, transfer case, and differentials are emphasized as critical maintenance items.
General recommendations
Suitable for families needing a powerful, three-row SUV with serious towing capacity (up to 8,700 lbs with Tow 'N Go). Ideal for buyers who prioritize V8 power and a confident highway presence over maximum fuel economy. Recommended for owners who are diligent about preventative maintenance, particularly frequent oil changes to mitigate potential Hemi lifter/cam issues. NOT recommended for those seeking the most fuel-efficient, tech-forward, or softly-riding family hauler. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is advised, focusing on known failure points like the water pump, exhaust manifold bolts, and LED lighting. For used models, target 2014 or newer to get the 8-speed transmission, and be prepared for potentially expensive repairs on high-performance or technology-laden trims.
Remarks
Owner feedback indicates a significant reliability improvement for the third-generation Durango (2011+) compared to older models, especially when equipped with the post-2014 8-speed transmission. The pervasive issue of LED lighting failures represents a notable and expensive design flaw. The vehicle's platform and drivetrain commonality with the Jeep Grand Cherokee provides a large parts and knowledge base. Discussions frequently note that aggressive negotiation can secure significant discounts off MSRP for new models, improving the value proposition. The data contains limited specific information on the long-term reliability of the Pentastar V6 in this application, though one dealership technician reported it as generally reliable. Analysis based on approximately 24 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Durango III (WD)2010–20265,240 complaints · 77 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (1893) · exterior lighting (1112) · engine (776)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the third-generation Durango is genuinely split, and the split runs along powertrain and model-year lines rather than being uniform.
14 problems reported (6 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentPentastar V6 "tick" developing over 100,000 miles, attributed to rocker arm and camshaft wear
- RecurrentPlastic oil cooler failure on the V6
Leaking oil or coolant into the valley and risking engine damage.
- RecurrentRadiator failure requiring replacement
+ 11 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical and computer faults
Including Uconnect head unit failures, PCM replacement, and unexplained electrical issues on low-mileage vehicles.
- RecurrentPower lift gate motor or hydraulic lift gate strut failure
- RecurrentAC system failures, including blower motor replacement and major AC repair before 100,000 miles
- IsolatedHEMI lifter failure leading to camshaft damage
- IsolatedWater pump bearing failure on HEMI models
- IsolatedFront strut and suspension bushing wear at higher mileage
- IsolatedKey or ignition lock cylinder failure preventing the vehicle from starting
- IsolatedFuel pump relay failure requiring replacement, including on vehicles with a bypass kit installed
- IsolatedCreaking or clunking front-end noise over bumps on a low-mileage 2023 GT
- IsolatedCooling and oil temperature issues traced to the oil cooler
- IsolatedNo-start condition after a minor collision with the starter not engaging
Is a 2010–2026 Durango right for you?
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Durango II (HB)2004–20083,906 complaints · 34 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): fuel system (1053) · gasoline (1035) · electrical system (562)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2004-2008 Durango is mixed and leans negative, with several owners calling it a "piece of shit" and warning others away, while a smaller group defends it as a capable, safe rig.
13 problems reported (13 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedIgnition lock cylinder failure preventing the key from turning
- IsolatedThrottle position correlation error (P0068) with rough idle and poor fuel economy, possibly linked to a damaged air filter housing allowing unfiltered air in
- IsolatedCylinder misfire requiring coil, plug, and wire diagnosis
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedRPM surge at idle with belt squeak
Attributed to dirty throttle body, vacuum leak, or idle air control valve.
- IsolatedTPMS light illuminated constantly
With owner uncertainty over whether the 2005 model even has sensors.
- IsolatedCargo hatch water leak traced to the roof rack
High-mount brake light gasket, or tailgate seams, with rust forming at the tailgate corners.
- IsolatedMDS solenoid code (P3449) returning after replacement alongside a transmission code
- IsolatedSeatbelt tensioner issue tied into the airbag system
- IsolatedBlend door failure causing HVAC problems, described as a common early-2000s Chrysler issue
- IsolatedECU solder joints cracking in cold weather, producing hard-to-diagnose electrical faults
- IsolatedTransmission failure
- IsolatedHemi misfires and lifter failure ("hemi tick")
- IsolatedPower steering weakness accompanied by engine squeak
Is a 2004–2008 Durango right for you?
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Durango I (DN)1998–20046,756 complaints · 43 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): suspension (2688) · engine and engine cooling (912) · power train (702)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment toward the 1998-2004 Durango is predominantly negative, with the most-upvoted comments warning against purchase and citing weak transmissions, poor fuel economy, and general reliability concerns.
14 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentWeak/failing automatic transmission, including band failure and rebuild needs
- Very frequentPoor fuel economy (commonly cited around 9-13 mpg)
- RecurrentBlend door actuator and HVAC vent/temperature control failures
+ 11 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDifferential problems after fluid change requiring limited-slip friction modifier
- RecurrentRough idle and crank/no-start issues traced to bad battery connections
Idle air control, or vacuum leaks.
- IsolatedIntake manifold plate gasket failure causing oil consumption (about a quart every 500 miles)
- IsolatedOverheating at idle traced to the radiator fan
- IsolatedECU solder joint cracking in cold weather causing electrical gremlins
- IsolatedRust in tailgate and body corners
- IsolatedWindow master control panel failure (window lock stuck)
- IsolatedFast blinker from failing bulbs
- IsolatedBlown speakers
- IsolatedA/C leaks requiring dye testing
- IsolatedBad leaf/limited-slip springs in the rear unit
Is a 1998–2004 Durango right for you?
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Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2005. Years to avoid: 2021, 2005, 2004, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Dodge Durango years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 13 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2025 | 8 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 14 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 48 | 2 | exterior lighting |
| 2022 | 56 | 7 | exterior lighting |
| 2021 | 606 | 8 | exterior lighting |
| 2020 | 75 | 2 | exterior lighting |
| 2019 | 257 | 4 | exterior lighting |
| 2018 | 428 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 210 | 2 | exterior lighting |
| 2016 | 161 | 3 | exterior lighting |
| 2015 | 503 | 4 | exterior lighting |
| 2014 | 782 | 11 | exterior lighting |
| 2013 | 640 | 11 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices145 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:column shiftcampaign 23V640000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Dodge Durango Pursuit vehicles equipped with an instrument panel mounted shifter. The shifter may experience an interference with the shifter boot and come out of gear while driving, which can result in a sudden loss of drive power.
2023 · structure:body:hatchback/liftgatecampaign 26V528000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, possibly resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
2022 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/modulecampaign 22V140000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 2500 and 2021-2022 Dodge Durango vehicles, and 2019-2022 3500 cab chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs. The ABS control module software may prevent the electronic stability control (ESC) malfunction indicator light from illuminating during certain conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2022 · steering:rack and pinioncampaign 22V154000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango and 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The steering gear rack bar may have been insufficiently hardened during manufacturing, possibly allowing it to bind within the steering rack, and resulting in difficulty steering or a loss of steering control.
2022 · power train:manual transmission:column shift assemblycampaign 22V866000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Charger and Durango vehicles. The shifter assembly was not properly heat-treated, which can prevent the shifter from properly engaging in the "drive" position.
2022 · structure:body:hatchback/liftgatecampaign 23V115000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
2022 · electronic stability control (esc):control modulecampaign 24V415000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Durango and Ram 2500 and 3500 vehicles. Due to a software malfunction, the ABS control module may disable the electronic stability control system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 24V436000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · structure:body:hatchback/liftgatecampaign 26V528000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, possibly resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
2021 · structure:bodycampaign 21V842000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
2021 · air bags:critical fastenerscampaign 21V280000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Durango vehicles. The Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) fastener may be loose or missing.
2021 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/modulecampaign 22V140000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 2500 and 2021-2022 Dodge Durango vehicles, and 2019-2022 3500 cab chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs. The ABS control module software may prevent the electronic stability control (ESC) malfunction indicator light from illuminating during certain conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2021 · steering:rack and pinioncampaign 22V154000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango and 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The steering gear rack bar may have been insufficiently hardened during manufacturing, possibly allowing it to bind within the steering rack, and resulting in difficulty steering or a loss of steering control.
2021 · engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:gas recirculation valve (egr valve)campaign 22V284000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee WK, 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles equipped with 3.6L engines. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may stick open, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.
2021 · structure:body:hatchback/liftgatecampaign 23V115000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.
130 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: WD
HELLCAT 6.2 HEMI V8 TORQUEFLITE
6.2L 8-cylinder · 710 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2021–2026