Written byMidsize SUV buyers on a budget have flocked to the Dodge Journey for almost a decade.The unique mix of a roomy interior, extremely pragmatic in-car features, and affordable price appeals to both families and commuters. Still, Dodge Journey model years are not all created equal. Some deliver dependable service and durability, while others have major problems that are extremely expensive to fix and can make for frustrating ownership experiences.
The most significant of these issues is a lack of reliability in specific Dodge Journey models. While the car is widely regarded as the best daily driver for all walks of life, owners have reported several mechanical and electrical issues affecting the car’s dynamic and correct function over the years. General transmission failures, engine trouble, and electrical problems are the most common complaints. These issues can result in tow costs and repair bills that will ultimately exceed the upfront low purchase price of the SUV.
This guide is designed to help buyers-in-the-know avoid Dodge Journey model years to skip while hopefully steering them toward the right ones. Knowing the most common problems and what years to avoid can help prevent you from purchasing a model that will give you trouble and find a version with better reliability and value. So, if you’re eyeing a used Dodge Journey because you’re on a budget or in the market for a family SUV you can count on, let this article help you avoid a bad decision.
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A Quick Overview of the Dodge Journey
The Dodge Journey, which debuted as a midsize crossover SUV in 2008, was finally killed off after the 2020 model year. The appropriate alternative for families and as a budget-friendly vehicle, it became popular thanks to its spacious interior and price. The Journey offered a slightly more sophisticated interior and flexible third-row seating but was affordable with various engine options.
The Dodge had a spacious interior, ample cargo capacity, and an intuitive infotainment system. However, it also had its weaknesses below-par fuel economy, a dated interior, and the omission of many critical safety technologies that later generations would have as standard. Nonetheless, the Journey was a favorite for the budget-conscious family-in-need vehicle buyer.
Dodge Journey Years to Avoid
1. 2009 Dodge Journey – The Worst Year
Dodge Journey while plenty of model years could be contenders for the worst, the general opinion is that the Dodge Journey takes the cake for endless mechanical issues and expensive repairs. Premature brake wear reported by owners as needing brake pad and rotor changes as soon as 12,000 miles is among the most common problems. Maintenance costs more, and increased safety issues ensue.
The other big issue was engine stalling, usually associated with electrical system problems. This was a serious safety hazard since many drivers were losing power while driving. This model was also burdened with many transmission failures, with reports of harsh shifts, near-instant throttle response, and the entire transmission generally failing, sometimes needing a complete replacement (over $3,500).
These common problems contribute to one of the highest complaint rates of any model year for the Dodge Journey. It proved unreliable constant, costly repairs faced owners. The 2009 model should be cautiously avoided if you’re in the market for a used Journey, with the later years showing minimal reliability issues.
2. 2010 Dodge Journey – Electrical Nightmares
Electrical problems mark the Dodge Journey as one of the least reliable options in the segment. Power locks can sometimes go haywire, and owners frequently report issues ranging from the locks not working to the locks popping open while visiting the store solutions that can leave you unable to lock your vehicle correctly (or at all) when stepping away from it. Another huge annoyance is dashboard glitches, such as displays going black and showing the wrong info. We are talking about electrical gremlins ranging from ignition systems to interior lighting, and many electrical failures produce frustration.
Ratings for 2010 Journey reliability are bad, and many beat half the complaints about a vehicle’s fierce unpredictability. However, many owners have had unexpected power cuts, wiring faults, and return trips to the service. It turns out that electrical failures rank as one of the most expensive things to fix in this model. Reports from forums and customer reviews suggest some issues remain, even post-multiple fixes, to the ongoing disappointment of users. And if you happen to be eyeing up a used Dodge Journey, stay far away from the 2010 model unless you relish the prospect of suffering endless electrical issues.
3. 2011 Dodge Journey – Transmission Issues
Transmission problems plague the Dodge Journey as well. If you’re looking at a used 2011 Dodge Journey, transmission problems are a major red flag. According to reports from multiple owners, the transmission has failed. This typically happens while driving suddenly and abruptly. You can expect transmission issues like rough shifting, gears slipping, or complete transmission loss, which can be very expensive to repair if you don’t endanger yourself in an accident first. This repair will cost over $3,000 to replace the transmission, which might be a little more than the vehicle’s resale value.
These problems appear to be related to the saloon’s automatic transmission, which fails to cope with the horsepower generated by the engine, especially in the 4-speed and 6-speed iterations. The transmission is prone to overheating or breaking down in highly tuned motoring conditions. These frequent failures also lead to Journeys with transmission problems showing up at used car lots, which is a risk for a buyer.
This is to say that the Dodge Journey is best avoided as a used buy, especially considering the cost of repairs and the possibility that the transmissions will have to deal with the periodic nature of the issues. It may seem like a bargain price up front, but the long-term wear costs and disappointment over transmission failures generally far exceed the up-front savings.
4. 2012 Dodge Journey – Engine Troubles
The Dodge Journey ranks as one of the more troubled model years thanks to engine problems that annoy owners. The most serious is overheating, which can cause engine failure if actions are not taken quickly. Some drivers complain about spontaneous temperature rises, often due to malfunctioning cooling systems or thermostats.
A third problem common to many of these engines is high oil consumption, which requires owners to put a quart or two in between oil changes on a regular basis. Worn piston rings or leaks in valve seals often lead to this problem, which can cause expensive performance loss and repair work on the engine.
Finally, a few drivers experience loss of power while driving, especially at freeway speeds. This may be due to bad fuel injectors, faulty sensors, or problems related to the ECU (engine control unit), resulting in an unreliable and possibly dangerous vehicle.
These ongoing engine issues and costly repairs earned the 2012 Dodge Journey a place to steer clear of when shopping for a used model. The recommendation would be for buyers to opt for newer, more reliable models, like the 2015-2019 Dodge Journey, which also offers better performance and fewer mechanical failures.
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Better Dodge Journey Years to Consider
The Dodge Journey was a fixture in the automaker’s lineup from 2009 through 2020. For buyers interested in a used Dodge Journey that won’t disappoint from an equipment standpoint, we think the 2015-2019 models are the way to go.
Why Choose 2015-2019 Dodge Journey Models?
These later model years’ reliability, performance, and features significantly improved over earlier examples; a 2015 refresh improved materials, the Uconnect infotainment system, and standard safety features. The V6 models (both AWD available) also offered a more potent performance punch and a more livable driving demeanor.
Key Upgrades Over Older Models:
- More dependable : Decreased the number of serious mechanical problems experienced by owners than pre-2015 vehicles.
- More Engine Power : The 3.6L Pentastar V6 (283 hp) is best for overall power and durability
- Upgraded Cabin : (available for $8,4 inches uconnect system, leather, tri-zone climate control, etc on top trims)
- Improved Safety : Rear parking sensors and rearview cameras became more readily available safety features.
Which Year is Best?
- 2018-2019: The model’s most refined version with the least reliability complaints.
- 2016-2017: Price, feature, and reliability sweet spot.
- 2015: The most substantial budget alternative, with key upgrades over older models.
Steer clear of 2009-2014 models for transmission failures, electrical issues, and old systems. The Journey is best experienced with the V6 and all-wheel drive look for a 2015–2019 version.
Conclusion
Dodge Journey years to avoid model year Analysis Dodge Journey has had several problems the most notable years are 2009 through 2014, which suffered from common issues like engine failure, transmission issues, and electrical failures. These years boast mostly poor reliability and high repair costs, leading to reports of premature brake wear, a dismal combination making them less attractive to used buyers. Still, reliability and performance improved over the years, with 2018 through 2020 models making better choices.
However, suppose you’re in the market for a used Dodge Journey. In that case, selecting a well-maintained example from a better year is essential since this midsize crossover is a decent vehicle when equipped with the right features. You can spare yourself significant headaches later on by reviewing service records and checking for recalls, and better yet, picking a certified pre-owned (CPO) model.
Always inspect before you buy, especially under the hood, including the engine, transmission, and electrical equipment. During a test drive, you may discover problems such as rough shifting or stalling. We recommend having a trusted mechanic conduct a pre-purchase inspection for unseen issues. The Dodge Journey can be a decent, reasonably priced family SUV, but make sure you pick wisely and do your due diligence to avoid a headache on the ownership side.
