Avoid: 2010, 2009 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2020
12 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 13 model years, the Dodge Journey has 5,535 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 52 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and service brakes. 2009 drew the most complaints (1,594), 2008 the fewest (8).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Dodge Journey vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $7,366–$11,775.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 65 |
| 2019 | 100 |
| 2018 | 234 |
| 2017 | 197 |
| 2016 | 386 |
| 2015 | 553 |
| 2014 | 415 |
| 2013 | 353 |
| 2012 | 376 |
| 2011 | 169 |
| 2010 | 1,085 |
| 2009 | 1,594 |
| 2008 | 8 |
Highest: 2009 (1,594 complaints). Lowest: 2008 (8).
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment based on long-term owner reports. The vehicle is characterized by pervasive and severe reliability issues, particularly with electrical systems, transmissions, and engine management, leading to repeated, expensive repairs.
Very frequent reports of batteries dying repeatedly, often traced to faulty modules (e.g., hands-free module, entire radio/infotainment system) drawing power while the vehicle is off.
Stuttering during gear shifts, harsh shifting, loss of acceleration, slipping, and complete failure requiring replacement. Affects multiple model years (2011, 2014, 2015, 2016).
Engine stuttering under acceleration, loss of power, rough running, and stalling when coming to a stop. Often accompanied by no diagnostic trouble codes.
Overheating issues, coolant leaks requiring expensive hose and radiator replacements. Faulty thermostats suspected.
Persistent, intermittent warnings for Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, and Electronic Throttle Control, often without clear cause. Acceleration may be disabled when these lights are active.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Journey. Individual model years are broken down above.
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