dodge journey 2010 won't accelerate

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Dodge Journey Acceleration Problem [Simple Fix]

Manufacturers will set the throttle response low due to regulations. This means that when you step on the gas pedal, there is a slight delay before the car actually starts to move. This is known as the "dead pedal" or "sponge pedal"!

The main concern here is when merging into traffic onto a highway or making a quick maneuver. There are some things you can do to help fix this issue.

One easy fix is to adjust the throttle response by installing a device called a throttle response controller. A throttle response controller amplifies the electrical signal to the ECU so that you get a much faster response from the engine. You can control the sensitivity from a smartphone or a remote, which helps get the perfect setting.

Our engineering team is recommending ShiftPower Throttle Response Controller at this time.

To know more about ShiftPower click >

Common Acceleration Problems in Dodge:

• Manufacture settings
• Throttle body issues
• Mass airflow sensor issues
• Catalytic converter issues
• Exhaust leaks
• Intake leaks
• Ignition system problems
• Fuel delivery issues
• Bad motor mount
• Vacuum leak
• Stiff steering wheel

Check engine light

When your check engine light or warning light comes on, it's telling you there is a problem with your vehicle.

Common reasons:

- ECU issues

- Throttle body issues

- Mass airflow sensor issues

- Catalytic converter issues

- Incorrectly gapped spark plug

- Cruise control issue

- Throttle Control Light issue

Dodge journey Acceleration Solved

If you don't have any mechanical or computer issues then we recommend you try a throttle response controller or a professional tune. For the cost, we have found that a throttle response controller is the least expensive that provides immediate results.

A throttle response controller is a device that modifies the signal between the pedal and the engine's computer. It "fools" the computer into thinking the pedal is being pressed further than it actually is which in turn tells the engine to provide more power. The results are an acceleration that feels smoother and more linear.

There are a few different types of throttle response controllers on the market, but we recommend the ShiftPower Throttle Response Controller. ShiftPower offers a 3-year warranty.

If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at 1-800-548-1195 or visit our website issautomotive.com

Throttle Position Sensor

A throttle position sensor (TPS) is a sensor used to monitor the position of the throttle in an internal combustion engine. The sensor is usually located on the throttle body.

The TPS is used to monitor the position of the throttle butterfly valve. The sensor produces a voltage that is proportional to the position of the throttle valve. The TPS is an important sensor because it tells the engine control unit (ECU) how far open the throttle is.

The TPS is a potentiometer that produces a varying voltage depending on the position of the throttle. The TPS is connected to the throttle shaft, and the position of the throttle shaft is proportional to the position of the throttle plate. When the throttle is closed, the TPS produces a voltage of 0.5 volts. As the throttle is opened, the TPS produces a higher voltage. When the throttle is fully open, the TPS produces a voltage of 4.5 volts.

The ECU uses the TPS signal to determine how much fuel to inject into the engine. The TPS signal is also used to calculate the engine load. The engine load is a measure of how much work the engine is doing. The engine load is used to calculate the ignition timing.

If the TPS is not working properly, it can cause a number of problems. If the TPS produces a voltage that is too low, it will cause the engine to run lean. This can lead to engine damage. If the TPS produces a voltage that is too high, it will cause the engine to run rich. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and emissions.

Frequently Asked Questions Dodge Journey Acceleration

Why is my dodge journey sluggish.

There are a few things that can cause your Dodge Journey to feel sluggish. It might be low on transmission fluid, have a dirty air filter, or need a new oxygen sensor.

The first thing you should check is the transmission fluid level. If it's low, topping it off might improve your car's performance.

A dirty air filter can also make your car feel sluggish. If your air filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

Finally, a faulty oxygen sensor can cause your car to run poorly. If your oxygen sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Why is my Dodge Journey lagging?

There are a few reasons why your Dodge Journey might be lagging. It could be an issue with the spark plugs, the fuel injectors, the air filter, or the oxygen sensor. If you're experiencing acceleration problems, it's best to take your car to a mechanic so they can scan for trouble codes and diagnose the issue. Once they know what's wrong, they can fix it and get your car running properly again.

What is throttle lag?

A throttle lag is when there's a delay between the time you press the accelerator pedal and when the car actually starts to move. This can be extremely frustrating, especially when you're trying to merge onto a highway or make a quick pass. There are a few things that can cause throttle lag, and luckily, there are also a few ways to fix it.

• Bad Fuel Filter - A clogged fuel filter can cause all sorts of engine performance issues, including throttle lag. The fix is to simply replace the fuel filter according to your car's maintenance schedule.
• Dirty Mass Air Flow Sensor - The mass air flow sensor is responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine. If it's dirty, it can cause a delay in the amount of air reaching the engine, which will cause throttle lag.
• Ignition Coil or Coil Packs - The ignition coil or coil pack is responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine. If it's failing, it can cause a delay in the spark, which will cause throttle lag.
• Cracked Air Intake Hose - An air intake hose that's cracked or broken can cause a loss of air pressure, which will cause throttle lag.
• Bad Spark Plugs - Worn-out spark plugs can cause a delay in the spark, which will cause throttle lag. Same issue with spark plug wires that are worn out or have too much resistance.

If you're experiencing throttle lag, there are a few things you can do to fix it. Check the fuel filter and mass air flow sensor, and make sure they're clean or replaced if necessary. You should also check the ignition coil or coil pack, and replace it if necessary. The same thing with spark plugs, replace them with new ones. Finally, check the air intake hose for any cracks or breaks, and replace it if necessary. By following these steps, you should be able to fix throttle lag and get your car running smoothly again.

How can I make my Dodge Journey faster?

There are a few things you can do to make your Dodge Journey faster. You can improve the aerodynamics of your car by adding a rear spoiler or a front air dam. You can also improve the performance of your car by upgrading the engine to a higher-performance model. You can also add a cold air intake or a performance exhaust system to improve the airflow to the engine.

Finally, the easiest and most inexpensive way to make your Dodge Journey faster is to install a throttle response controller. This will improve the throttle response of your car and make it feel more responsive to your inputs

Fuel Injectors

One of the most common causes of an  acceleration problem in a Dodge Journey is a clogged or dirty fuel injector. Fuel injectors spray fuel into the engine, and over time they can become clogged with deposits. This can cause the injector to spray less fuel, or not spray any fuel at all, which will cause the engine to run lean and eventually stall. If you think your Journey may have a clogged injector, have it checked by a mechanic.

Trouble Codes

A trouble code is a code thrown out by an automotive diagnostic tool when it detects an issue within the vehicle. These codes are used by automobile manufacturers to diagnose and repair issues within the vehicle. Dodge journey owners may come across a wide variety of trouble codes, some of which may indicate serious problems.

One sample of trouble code that may be thrown by the Dodge Journey is the P0456 trouble code. This code indicates that there is a small leak in the evaporative emission control system.

Other codes that may be thrown by the Dodge Journey include P0128, which indicates that the coolant thermostat is not functioning properly, and P0300, which indicates that the engine is misfiring.

If either of these codes is thrown, it is important to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Continuing to drive a vehicle with either of these codes may cause further damage to the engine or other systems.

Related Dodge cars articles that you may like:

• Dodge Charger Acceleration Problem

Dodge RAM Hesitation On Acceleration

Dodge RAM 1500 Acceleration Problems

• Dodge Charger Acceleration Delay
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Car Will Not Accelerate Problems of Dodge Journey

Dodge Journey owners have reported 4 problems related to car will not accelerate (under the electrical system category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Dodge Journey based on all problems reported for the Journey.

1 Car Will Not Accelerate problem of the 2009 Dodge Journey

Tl the contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the accelerator pedal was depressed however, vehicle failed to accelerate. The speed decreased to 10 mph and vehicle went into limp mode. The electronic throttle warning indicator light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where she was informed that the throttle and wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was towed to contact's residence. The contact called cherry hill Dodge Chrysler Jeep ram (1708 w, NJ-70, cherry hill, NJ 08002, (856) 471-1058) however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to NHTSA. The contact stated that the failure was similar to the failure stated in NHTSA campaign number: 08v247000 (electrical system). The failure mileage was 98,000. See all problems of the 2009 Dodge Journey 🔎 .

2 Car Will Not Accelerate problem of the 2010 Dodge Journey

Car turns off while driving and traction control light goes on. Steering and breaks do not work when this happens creating an emergency situation for driver and passengers as well as the public as crash is very possible. Car will not start immediately upon attempting to restart. If it does start, within 5 minutes the car will shut down again mid drive. Car fails to accelerate above 1500 rpms right before car shuts off. . See all problems of the 2010 Dodge Journey 🔎 .

3 Car Will Not Accelerate problem of the 2009 Dodge Journey

The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that the vehicle had several defects and failed to start on several occasions. As a result, the contact had to leave the vehicle unattended for a day and then go back and restart the vehicle. While the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate over 35 mph. On several occasions, the air bag, check engine, traction control, esp, and security indicators illuminated off and on. Also, on several occasions, the gear shifter failed to shift into neutral. The vehicle was taken to monken Dodge Chrysler Jeep ram Nissan (located at 1739 w mccord st, centrailia, IL 62801 (618) 545-5100) where it was diagnosed that the failure could not be replicated. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to king city Chrysler center (located at broadway st, mt vernon, IL 62864 (618) 242-6600) where it was diagnosed that the pcm needed to be replaced. The contact stated that another mechanic suggested to have the pcm rebuilt to save money. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 158,000. The VIN was unavailable.

4 Car Will Not Accelerate problem of the 2010 Dodge Journey

The contact owns a 2010 Dodge Journey. While driving at approximately 25 mph, there was a sudden loss of power causing the vehicle to fail to accelerate. The failure recurred on two other occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 85,395.

Other Common Electrical System related problems of Dodge Journey

Car Won’t Accelerate Past 60 MPH? (Easy Solution)

It can be quite annoying when you step on the gas pedal, but your car refuses to go beyond 60 mph. At first, it may seem like a small issue until it happens a couple of times, and you get alarmed.

Table of Contents

There are many reasons why this can happen.

Here are some possible reasons why your car will not go past 60 mph. Meanwhile, you should know the car models that are not speed-limited .

Check also: Car won’t accelerate at high speeds.

The ECU Has Activated the Limp Mode

A limp mode is a security feature in cars that activates when the transmission control or engine picks up a fault with your vehicle.

This may even cause your car to not go faster than 20-30 MPH .

Once the issue is detected, the limp mode will cause certain car parts to shut down, and the speed of the car will be affected.

The limp mode lets you know that there is something wrong with your car, giving you time to get home, to a mechanic, or move away from the road.

Several things can trigger this feature.

But once the car computer immediately detects something wrong with the car, it will revert to limp mode to avoid causing further damage. That is why you may be trying to accelerate past 60 mph, but your car will not bulge.

Some of the issues that can trigger a limp mode include:

• Faulty engine sensors
• Faulty wiring
• Transmission issues
• Low fluid levels
• Dysfunctional brakes

The best way to fix a limp mode is to take the car to a mechanic.

A professional will inspect your car and solve whatever issue triggered the limp mode.

If you cannot drive to an auto repair shop or are too far from them, call them to come and get you. It is not advisable to drive your car for a long period once the limp mode has been activated.

Dirty or Clogged Fuel Filter

Another reason your car will not accelerate past 60 mph is if the fuel filter is clogged or dirty.

The fuel filter prevents dirt, scale, rust, and other impurities from getting to the fuel pump and engine, and causing damage.

But with time, all those impurities it has been filtering can clog it.

That means the engine will not receive enough fuel, hence affecting acceleration.

Besides poor acceleration, other signs of a dirty fuel filter include:

• Strong odor from the exhaust pipe
• The engine does not perform as well as it used to
• Frequent idling and sputtering
• Issues starting the engine
• Engine misfires

Have the fuel filter replaced if your car has been giving you any of these signs.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

In the same way, the fuel filter ensures the engine receives clean fuel, the air filter ensures the engine gets clean air to be used in the combustion chambers. But with time, the air filter will get dirty or clogged after filtering impurities of all kinds.

This prevents the engine from getting the right amount of air-fuel mixture, affecting the vehicle’s acceleration.

When the air filter is clogged, the car will give you certain signs like:

• Strange engine noises
• Check engine light comes on
• Black smoke coming from the exhaust pipe
• Strong fuel smell

You ought to inspect the air filter once a year and see if it needs to be changed.

But most mechanics suggest changing it every 15000 to 30,000 miles for maximum car performance.

Problems With the Timing Belt

When it comes to major components in an engine, the timing belt is one of them.

And if it is off or misaligned by just one tooth, it will lead to a reduction of power, hence affecting acceleration.

Note that besides misalignment issues, a worn-out timing belt will also not function properly, hence affecting acceleration.

To inspect the belt, check on the outer part and see if tiny cracks are forming. One or two cracks are nothing to be alarmed about, but multiple cracks on the surface are a sign that you need a new timing belt.

Many times, a faulty timing belt can also cause the car to not accelerate well during turns .

Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAS)

The mass air flow sensor determines the air mass entering the fuel injection and passes that information to the ECU.

That information is important as it ensures the right amount of fuel is delivered to the engine.

But when it is faulty, it can send the wrong data to the engine, which will affect your acceleration.

Certain signs that the MAS is faulty include:

• Check if the engine lights come on
• Abnormal jolts of power
• Lean idling
• Poor fuel economy

Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The TPS works by detecting the throttle valve opening angle, which is usually controlled by the accelerator pedal.

The TPS then sends this data to the car’s ECU.

If the TPS is faulty, it means that the accelerator pedal will not be able to control the engine speed. Whenever you try accelerating the car under such conditions, the car will not reach higher speeds.

Check also: Why won’t my car maintain speed ?

Faulty Oxygen Sensor

The role of the oxygen sensor is to monitor the emissions of the car so that it can assess the air-fuel ratio passing through the engine.

As you are already aware, your car needs the right amount of fuel so that the fuel burns correctly in the combustion cylinders, resulting in the car running smoothly and accelerating as needed.

This sensor sends information to the engine computer unit about the amount of fuel being used.

But when it is damaged, the engine will not have a clue about the air-fuel ratio, which can lead to a rich fuel mixture.

This can cause the vehicle to not accelerate past 60 mph even when pressing the pedal as hard as possible.

Other signs that a vehicle with a faulty oxygen sensor will display include:

• The engine sounds rough
• A bad odor resembling sulfur or rotten eggs coming from the exhaust

Problems With the Clutch

Modern vehicles come with an advanced clutch system that can last more than 100,000 miles.

However, rough driving conditions will damage the clutch and, in return, affect acceleration.

A damaged clutch will slip , especially if you are carrying heavy loads or driving uphill. You will notice that engine speed is increasing, but the car is not going any faster no matter how much you press the gas pedal.

Unfortunately, a slipping clutch can overheat other components, leading to damage.

Clutch slippage is a sign that the clutch is about to fail. Various things can cause this, such as the plate or disc starting to wear out.

Note that if you are an aggressive driver who revs the engines often, your clutch is likely to have issues prematurely.

Check also: Car won’t downshift during acceleration .

Leaks in Vacuum Hoses

Your engine has many vacuum hoses. Their role is to transport air and fuel to and from the engine and other points.

This might cause your car to not accelerate past 4000 RPM .

But when the hose has holes, your engine will not get the right air-fuel ratio. This leads to a lean mixture that will reduce engine power and lead to acceleration issues, such as your car not going beyond 60 mph.

The first sign that you have a vacuum leak is if your idle is higher than normal. The check engine light will also come on, and the engine will either underperform or misfire.

You may also hear vacuum sounds coming from the engine. Park your car in a safe place and listen for sucking, hissing, or squealing sounds. All these can indicate that you have a vacuum leak.

In many instances, the leak results from a broken or cracked hose, which will not cost you a lot. But if the leaks are caused by a serious issue such as a cracked intake manifold, fixing the issue can cost you about $1000.

Clogged or Dirty Fuel Injector

A fuel injector is designed to supply a specific amount of fuel to the combustion chamber. But if it is clogged, there will be poor fuel flow, leading to reduced engine performance and hence issues when you try accelerating.

Fortunately, if you know your way around an engine, you can clean the fuel injector at home. Get a fuel injector kit from an auto store or online.

Most cleaning kits can clean any type of vehicle. But to be safe, read the package carefully and ask the store clerk if the cleaning kit is right for your car.

If your car still has acceleration issues after cleaning, consult a mechanic who will pinpoint the exact problem and fix it.

Faulty Catalytic Converter

The role of a catalytic converter is to ensure that the exhaust gases leave the engine. But when it is faulty, it can cause gases to be trapped in the engine.

This creates a lot of pressure that can lead to the engine losing power.

When this happens, your car can refuse to accelerate past 60 mph because the engine performance has been affected.

Final Thoughts

These are just some of the issues that can cause your car not to accelerate past 60mph.

If you are uncertain about troubleshooting acceleration issues on your own, we recommend going to a mechanic who will diagnose it and suggest the right solution.

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Why Won’t My Car Accelerate Properly?

• Updated: February 12, 2023

Problems with the acceleration in your car are never a good sign, because it tells you that something is wrong with either the air-fuel mixture or the ignition.

How should you start diagnosing the problem if your car won’t accelerate? In this article, I will go through the most common reasons why your car won’t accelerate. Let’s begin with a quick overview of the possible causes.

Why Won’t My Car Accelerate?

The most common reason why a car won’t accelerate is due to a faulty throttle body or a faulty air-fuel mixture. A faulty air-fuel mixture could be caused by a bad MAF sensor, clogged fuel filter, clogged air filter, or a faulty fuel pump. Ignition issues can also cause it.

While these are far from all of the possible reasons, it’s a good start. Here is a more detailed list of the 8 most common causes why your car won’t accelerate:

1. Dirty or Damaged Mass Air Flow Sensor

The most common cause of a car that won’t accelerate is a lean air-fuel mixture. The mass airflow sensor measures the air entering the engine, and the engine control unit then calculates how much fuel should be injected into the engine.

Commonly, this sensor gets dirt if you have an open-air filter or haven’t changed the air filter in a while.

If this MAF sensor gets dirty or damaged, it will measure too little air entering the engine, and therefore you may have problems with a lean mixture .

You can often clean the MAF sensor to make it functional again. Remove the sensor and carefully clean it with an electric cleaner.

You can learn more about bad MAF sensor symptoms here: bad MAF sensor symptoms

2. Clogged Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is installed after the fuel pump, ensuring that no dirt will come into the fuel system and destroy parts like the fuel injectors .

If you haven’t replaced the fuel filter in a while, the filter might restrict the fuel flow and create low fuel pressure . Low fuel pressure will then cause a lean mixture in the engine, which causes acceleration problems.

The fuel filter is often easy and cheap to replace, so if you haven’t done so in a while, it is definitely time to replace it.

3. Clogged Air Filter

The air filter ensures that no dirt or other particles enter the engine and destroy sensitive parts and sensors. The air filter should be replaced according to a schedule, which depends on your car model and engine.

The engine needs air to breathe, and if the air filter is too clogged so it will restrict the airflow, it may choke the engine, so it will not be able to accelerate over a specific speed.

4. Failed Throttle body valve

When you press the accelerator pedal, a flap is opening to let more air go into the engine. This is called the throttle body.

If there are any problems with the throttle body valve, you might experience limited power because the valve may not open fully.

If there are any problems with the throttle body, it will often light up the check engine light.

5. Ignition problems

It is not only the air-fuel mixture that can mess with your acceleration. To have a powerful engine, you also need a good spark. If there are any problems with parts in the ignition system like the spark plugs or the ignition coils, there might be a problem with acceleration.

When you have any problems with the ignition, you may notice it as a misfire . If your car sounds slightly different and has a very rough acceleration, that could be caused by misfires.

Misfires are when the ignition fails, and unburnt fuel is exiting the exhaust system. Misfires are often caused by bad spark plugs or bad ignition coils .

You may also check the ignition timing if it is manually adjustable on your car model. Late ignition timing may cause your car to become very weak.

6. Faulty Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is delivering fuel to the engine. The fuel pump builds up pressure in the fuel rail when the engine is running to make sure there is always fuel there if the engine needs it.

If the fuel pump goes bad, it may cause low fuel pressure, resulting in a loss in acceleration. If you have any trouble codes stored in the engine control unit about low fuel pressure, a bad fuel pump could be at fault.

7. Faulty Camshaft Timing

Did anybody replace the timing belt or chain on your car recently, and the car became slow after that? If someone is installing the timing belt or chain incorrectly, or it happens by accident, your car will often become very slow and powerless.

If the timing belt has jumped over without reason, you need to investigate the problem as soon as possible, because a failing timing belt or chain can cause the whole engine to be destroyed.

8. Limp Mode

Limp mode is activated when the engine control unit recognizes a very wrong parameter from any sensor. This can often be caused by overboost by the turbo or similar.

Limp mode often restricts the engine’s RPM and power. If you have an automatic transmission, it can also stop the transmission from shifting over 3rd gear.

Limp mode is a very common reason why your car isn’t accelerating, and if you notice this symptom together with a check engine light , it is definitely time to check the trouble codes.

You can read more about limp mode here: Limp mode causes and symptoms

How to diagnose a car that wont accelerate?

Diagnosing a car that won’t accelerate is quite easy if you have the tools and experience. Here is how a professional would diagnose this problem. You might need some special tools to follow this guide, though.

• Connect an OBD2 scanner and check for any trouble codes and related trouble codes. Continue troubleshooting with the trouble codes you will find. There are a lot of troubleshooting articles on this website that are written to help you with specific trouble codes. If you did not find any trouble codes, you could continue.
• Check the live data in the diagnostic tool while someone else is accelerating the car. Look for the turbo pressure and airflow when accelerating. Check all other values and continue the troubleshooting of the faulty sensor if you find any strange values.
• Check the MAF airflow sensor and clean it with an electric cleaner.
• Check the air filter and replace it if it is dirty.
• Check the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure meter. Check and replace your fuel filter or fuel pump if the pressure is too low.
• Check for any leaks with an EVAP smoke machine . Check the function of the PCV valve . Repair any leaks and try again.
• Check the conditions of the spark plugs and ignition coils. Replace if faulty or in bad condition.
• Check the camshaft timing. Replace or correct the timing if it is faulty.

Categories: Driving , Troubleshooting

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Tire Products, Guides, And Advice That Make The Grade

Traction Control Light On And Car Won’t Accelerate

Time To Read:

• Common Reasons for Traction Control Light and Loss of Acceleration
• Can Traction Control Affect Acceleration?
• Does Traction Control Affect the Engine?
• Can Traction Control Cause a Car to Go Into Limp Mode?
• What To Do When Traction Control Light Comes On
• Final Thoughts

Ever been driving and suddenly your car feels like it’s lost its get-up-and-go, all while a mysterious light pops up on your dashboard? You’re not alone, and it’s not just frustrating—it can be downright scary. But don’t panic; understanding what’s happening can be your first step to solving the problem.

Traction Control Light On And Car Won’t Accelerate When the  traction control light  is on and your car won’t accelerate, it’s often due to a malfunction in the traction control system. This can affect wheel speed sensors, the steering angle sensor, or the traction control module, leading to reduced engine power and limited acceleration.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of traction control systems, exploring how they work, why they’re crucial for your safety, and what to do when things go wrong. We’ll cover common reasons for the traction control light coming on, how it affects your car’s acceleration and engine, and steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue.

Let’s take a closer look.

When the traction control light comes on your dashboard, it’s like your car is saying, “Hey, something’s not right here!” This light is a warning that there might be a problem with your traction control system. Sometimes, you might also notice that your car isn’t accelerating like it should. Let’s dive into some common reasons why this happens.

Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor

• What They Do : A wheel speed sensor monitors how fast each of your wheels is spinning. They send this information to the traction control computer.
• The Problem : If one or more of wheel speed sensors are faulty, they can send incorrect information, causing your traction control to act up.
• Impact on Tires : A bad reading from wheel speed sensor can make your tires lose grip when they actually shouldn’t, affecting your driving safety.

Bad Steering Angle Sensor

• What It Does : The steering angle sensor keeps track of the direction in which you’re steering.
• The Problem : If this sensor is not working correctly, your traction control might get confused and not know how to help your tires maintain grip.
• Impact on Tires : A faulty steering angle sensor can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your tires, as your traction control may apply brakes or reduce power at the wrong times.

Faulty Traction Control Module

• What It Does : This is the “brain” of the traction control system. It takes information from all the sensors and decides what action to take.
• The Problem : If this module is faulty, the whole system can go haywire, leading to poor tire performance and even safety risks.
• Impact on Tires : A malfunctioning module can cause erratic behavior in your tires, like unnecessary wheel spin or braking, which can wear out your tires faster.

Real-World Consequences

Imagine you’re driving on a highway and suddenly your traction control light comes on, and you notice your car isn’t accelerating properly. This could be due to any of the issues mentioned above. In such a situation, your tires might not grip the road well, making it risky for you and others on the road.

What to Do Next?

If you experience these issues, it’s crucial to get your car checked by a professional. They can diagnose the problem—whether it’s a sensor issue or a faulty module—and help you fix it, ensuring your tires and traction control work in harmony for a safer drive.

You might be wondering, “Why is my car not speeding up like it usually does?” Well, your traction control could be the reason. This system is designed to help your tires maintain grip, but sometimes it can also affect how quickly your car accelerates.

How Traction Control Impacts Acceleration

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how traction control can affect your car’s acceleration:

• Sensing Wheel Spin : When you press the gas pedal, your car’s wheels start to spin faster. If one wheel spins too fast, the wheel speed sensors will detect it.
• Reducing Engine Power : To prevent that wheel from losing grip, the traction control computer may reduce the engine power. This means your car won’t accelerate as quickly as you might expect.
• Applying Brakes : In some cases, the system might apply the brakes to the spinning wheel, which can also slow down your acceleration.

Why This Matters for Your Tires

From a tire expert’s perspective, this is crucial for several reasons:

• Preventing Wear and Tear : Rapid acceleration can cause your tires to wear out quickly. By controlling acceleration, the traction control system can extend the life of your tires.
• Maintaining Optimal Grip : If a tire loses grip due to rapid acceleration, it can affect your car’s stability. Traction control ensures that your tires maintain optimal grip, enhancing your safety.

Real-World Scenarios

Let’s say you’re at a stoplight, and when it turns green, you press the gas pedal to accelerate quickly. If your traction control senses that one wheel is spinning too fast, it might reduce the engine power or apply the brakes to that wheel. As a result, you’ll notice that your car doesn’t speed up as fast as you expected.

Should You Be Concerned?

If you notice that your car isn’t accelerating like it should, it’s not always a cause for alarm. The traction control system is designed to prioritize your safety over rapid acceleration. However, if you find that the system is overly sensitive or causing issues frequently, it might be time to get it checked by a professional.

You might be asking, “Why does my car feel less powerful sometimes?” The answer could be related to your traction control. While the primary job of traction control is to help your tires maintain grip, it can also have an impact on your engine’s performance.

How Traction Control Interacts with the Engine

Here’s how the traction control system can affect your engine:

• Reducing Engine Power : When wheel speed sensors detect a wheel spinning too fast, the traction control may decide to reduce the engine power. This helps the spinning wheel regain grip but can make the car feel less powerful.
• Intervening in Gear Changes : In some advanced systems, traction control can even interact with the car’s transmission to change gears, aiming to maintain optimal grip.

The Impact on Engine Power and Tires

From a tire expert’s point of view, this interaction between the engine and traction control is important for a few reasons:

• Consistent Tire Performance : By controlling the engine’s power output, the traction control system ensures that your tires are not subjected to excessive force, which can lead to rapid wear.
• Safety : Reducing engine power can help prevent situations where a loss of tire grip could lead to a dangerous skid or slide.

Real-World Implications

Imagine you’re driving uphill on a slippery road. You press the gas pedal to give your car the power it needs to climb. However, the traction control system senses that one wheel is spinning too fast and decides to reduce engine power. While this might make your climb slower, it ensures that all wheels maintain good grip, making your journey safer.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice a frequent loss of engine power and you suspect it’s due to the traction control system, it’s a good idea to consult a professional. They can check whether the system is working as it should or if it needs adjustments or repairs.

First things first, let’s talk about what “limp mode” actually is. Limp mode is a safety feature in many modern cars that limits the vehicle’s performance to prevent further damage. When your car goes into limp mode, you’ll notice a significant loss of power, and you won’t be able to drive faster than a certain speed. It’s like your car is saying, “Something’s wrong; let’s slow down until we figure it out.”

How Traction Control Can Trigger Limp Mode

Now, how does traction control fit into this picture? Here’s how:

• Sensor Malfunctions : If the wheel speed sensors or the steering angle sensor send incorrect data, the traction control module might get confused. This can trigger the car’s computer to activate limp mode as a precaution.
• Faulty Traction Control Module : If the “brain” of your traction control—the traction control module—is not working properly, it can send incorrect commands, causing the car to go into limp mode.

The Importance for Tires and Overall Safety

From a tire expert’s perspective, limp mode is a double-edged sword:

• Prevents Further Damage : By limiting speed and power, limp mode helps prevent further wear and tear on your tires and other components.
• Immediate Attention Required : However, if your car goes into limp mode, it’s a sign that something is seriously wrong and needs immediate attention. Ignoring it can lead to more severe tire and engine issues.

Real-World Example

Let’s say you’re driving on a highway, and suddenly your traction control light comes on, followed by a noticeable drop in speed and power. Your car has likely entered limp mode due to a perceived issue with the traction control. In this situation, it’s crucial to pull over safely and seek professional help.

What Should You Do?

If your car goes into limp mode, the first thing to do is get to a safe location and turn off the engine. Restarting the car might reset the system temporarily, but it’s essential to get your vehicle checked by a professional to diagnose and fix the underlying issue.

When the traction control light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s your car’s way of telling you that something might be off with the car’s traction control system components such as a bad wheel speed sensor. This is a crucial moment, especially if you also notice that your car isn’t accelerating as it should.

Steps to Diagnose the Issue

If you find yourself in this situation, here are some steps you can take:

• Check Your Dashboard : Besides the traction control light, look for other warning lights that might be on, such as the check engine light. This can give you more clues about what’s wrong.
• Pull Over Safely : If possible, find a safe spot to pull over and turn off your car. This can sometimes reset minor electronic glitches.
• Consult the Owner’s Manual : Your car’s manual often has a section that explains what each warning light means and what you should do.

How to Reset the Traction Control Light

If you’ve pulled over and turned off your car, you might be wondering how to reset the traction control light. Here’s how:

• Restart the Car : Sometimes, simply restarting the car can reset the system and turn off the traction control light.
• Use an OBD Scanner : If you have an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) scanner, you can plug it into your car to read any error codes. This can help you understand what might be wrong.
• Visit a Mechanic : If the light doesn’t go off or comes back on, it’s best to consult a professional for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

The Role of Tires in This Scenario

From a tire expert’s perspective, it’s essential to address a lit traction control light promptly because:

• Tire Wear : Ignoring the issue can lead to uneven tire wear, as the traction control system may apply brakes or reduce power inconsistently.
• Safety Risks : A malfunctioning traction control system can compromise your tires’ grip on the road, posing safety risks.

Real-World Advice

Imagine you’re driving in heavy rain, and your traction control light comes on. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and restart the car. If the light goes off, proceed with caution. If it stays on, it’s best to drive slowly to the nearest mechanic for a check-up.

Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires

• How to reset a traction control light – WikiHow
• My traction control light comes on and the car stops accelerating – Your Mechanic

Understanding your car’s traction control system is not just for gearheads; it’s essential knowledge for anyone who drives. This system plays a critical role in your safety, helping your tires maintain optimal grip and preventing dangerous skids. 

When the traction control light comes on and your car won’t accelerate, it’s usually a sign that something in this system needs attention. Whether it’s a faulty sensor or a more complex issue with the traction control module, acting promptly can prevent further problems and keep you safe on the road.

Good luck and happy motoring.

About The Author

Will, the founder of TireGrades.com, is a tire expert and car enthusiast with roots in the industry dating back to his childhood next to the founder of Parrish Tire. His expertise, honed through a consulting role with Discount Tire, encompasses developing training courses and strategic planning.

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina—a hub for tire manufacturing and NASCAR—Will’s three-decade passion with all things on 4 wheels includes involvement in SCCA events and local car clubs. At TireGrades.com, he dedicates himself to providing practical solutions and reliable information for common tire-related queries, helping vehicle owners make informed decisions.

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So I have a issue with my 04 Hemi. On the way to work this morning I had the cruise set and noticed the truck was "jerking" and not accelerating. The RPM were jumping a bit. I took cruise off and noticed I really couldnt accelerate past 60mph. I pushed the tow button, and that did not help. I dropped it in 2nd gear and the truck would accelerate fine. It had a half tank of gas, 92 octane. Drove fine for the last 3 days, all last night and I parked it in the driveway. This morning, I drive about 1 mile to get on the freeway from my house and it starts acting up. Popped the hood, nothing out of the ordinary. Grabbed my scan tool, just the two codes I have had for the last 5 months or so. Bank 2 02 sensor 1 voltage high Bank 1 02 sensor 2 voltage low No misire codes. I didnt notice any pinging, but it felt similar to detonation. I put like another 20 miles on it with the same symptoms, so I decide to fill up with 92 octane from another gas station. Half tank of fresh gas. Drove 25+ miles to work, same issue, cant accelerate much without it feeling like I am driving into a 100+mph headwind. If I am in 1st or 2nd its fine, but Drive or Tow/Haul I have to be very light on the throttle. Any ideas? Bad tank of gas? Some neighborhood kids mess with my fuel? Does my truck have the swine flu? Whatcha think?  

Has to be the swine flu!  

clogged cat(s) ?  

Does it accelerates better going down hill, and a lot worse going up hill?  

I think it may be a clogged Cat, at least that is how a bad Cat. acts.  

I agree about the bad cat but it could be one of a hundred things to be honest.  

check the fuel filter?  

I had a similar issue. When yours is acting up can you set the cruise? Is the red light that looks like a lightning bolt flashing? Thats how mine was and it ended up being the PCV valve  

If you can get to 80 in second gear I doubt its the fuel filter.  

On the way home it started acting up right away. Did it all the way home. Its now doing it in 2nd gear too. I pulled some codes when I got home Same 2 I have had for 5 months or so O2 sensor O2 sensor And now there are 2 more Fuel trim lean bank 1 Multiple cyl misfire. Sweet. Now I get to pull some plugs and see whats goin on. Anyone wanna guess?  

When the cat got clogged on my Chevy it would misfire at idle and the plugs were fouled. It built up a lot of back pressure, and didn't want to shift under hard acceleration.  

my boss 2004 did the same kinda but it wouldnt rev passed 2400 rpms weather in park or in drive or any other gear. he had a fried pcm.  

tps?  

the flux capicitor will do this every time and you will not be able to get it up too 88 mph, so in other words your not going to see some serious shit!!!  

Check your rear tail pipe if you have pressure(lots of flow)....if not its ur cat...that happend to my accord, hollowed out the cat ran like a dream.....!!:drivingz:  

I pulled all the 02 sensors today, they look ok to me. On my 4.7 ram when the Cat collapsed and blew out itself (drove hot truck through very deep cold water) It had a bunch of slag all over the 02 sensor. Gonna test the sensors and might just replace all 4. They are cheap enough, $120 for all 4 at autozone. Back to to truck, gonna check the plugs and coils I think. This is starting to bother me. BTW, is bank1 drivers or pass side?  

the front 02 sensors are important..one of your codes refers to passenger side forward sensor.. the rear sensor only monitors the cats and doesn't affect the pcm like the front sensors do..  

an exaust leak may cause a surge but if your getting it on both banks it could very well be your fuel.  

Buy a locking gas cap, and check your fuel rail for pressure and cracks like this....  

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Problem solved Two new 02 sensors did the trick Sheesh... never had an 02 cause such a headache. Sometimes it the easiest things.  

Yup...those Little *******s Would Do That To You....glad You Got It Fixed  

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Home » Troubleshooting » Dodge Journey won’t start – causes and how to fix it

Dodge Journey won’t start – causes and how to fix it

Dodge Journey is a reliable road companion, but its a machine with hundreds of interconnected parts, and like any other machine it sometimes fail to deliver normal operation. In this article we go through most common causes of Journey breakdown and how you can fix the problem.

The most common causes that hinders normal starting operation of your Journey are dead 12v battery, corrosion on battery terminals, and dead key fob battery. However, bad alternator, clogged fuel filter, broken starter, blown fuse, empty gas tank, immobilizer error, or any fault in the electrical system can also cause your vehicle not to start.

1. Weak Battery

If your Journey’s engine won’t crank or cranks very slowly, then the most likely culprit is weak or dead 12v battery. Investigating more closely and doing a battery voltage test will clarify whether the starting problem is due to the battery. A test can be done to measure the voltage between the battery poles, check the acid level and assess the condition of the starter battery.

If a new car battery has been installed, the battery may not have yet reached its full capacity. There is nothing to worry about. A new battery only develops its full capacity over time.

Test 12v battery

The voltage of the battery on your Dodge Journey can be measured precisely with a multimeter. Before the test, the multimeter is set to the voltage range of the battery and connected to its plus and minus poles. Successful testing of the car battery, i.e. checking the voltage, usually results in values ​​of approx. 12 to 13 volts. Values ​​above 14 or below 11.5 volts require an expert assessment of the condition of the car battery. Because the battery may have a defect with these measured values ​​and must be replaced.

Jump start Dodge Journey

If dead battery is the reason for the breakdown of your Journey, you can easily jump start it using jumper cables and a healthy battery from another vehicle, or using a battery booster if available.

First connect red cable to the positive terminal of your Journey’s dead battery, then to the positive terminal of donor battery. Next connect black cable to the negative terminal of donor battery, then to the bare metal in the engine bay of your Journey. Start the donor vehicle and then your Journey. Remove the cables in reverse order.

2. Corrosion on battery

Corrosion on the contacts of your car battery leads to loss of contact and reduced current flow, which means that your engine can no longer start properly.

To know if your Journey’s starting problems are from dirty battery contacts, you need to investigate them. If you lift the rubber covers over the two battery terminals, you can check the terminals for corrosion. If you discover white deposits or silvery-green deposits, but no further cracks or damage, you do not have to replace the battery, just clean it.

Clean battery corrosion

To clean the battery on your Dodge Journey, you have to remove the pole cables first, which requires no special knowledge, just a little concentration, as the order is very important. First remove the black cable from the negative pole. If the pole clamp is very tight, you can open it with pliers. We advise against using metal pliers, but if you use them, you must make sure that you do not touch any other parts of the body. Next you can unplug the red positive pole cable. Once the battery has been removed from the circuit, you can start cleaning the corroded battery. After cleaning, reconnect the terminals.

3. Weak key fob battery

If your Journey has push start/stop button, then its possible that your vehicle may not start due to weak key fob battery. Don’t worry, you can still start your vehicle – the battery is only used to send the signal for locking/unlocking. If the key fob battery is empty, the door no longer locks or unlocks at the push of a button. The doors must then be opened manually. The immobilizer is controlled by a passive transponder. Passive means, among other things, that the transponder in the key does not need its own power source.

How to start Dodge Journey with dead key fob battery

If you have a model of Journey which only has a key fob with start/stop button and no place to insert a key, then try placing your key fob as close to the start/stop button as you can and then start the vehicle.

Tip: You can try starting your Journey with its second key. It will also rule out any other problem with the first key, for example, water damage.

4. Broken starter motor

A starter is a motor for starting the engine of your Journey. The average life of a starter motor is about 100,000 to 150,000 miles, and the life will be shortened if the engine is started more frequently. In any case, since the starter motor also has a limited life, it will break down after using the car for a long time, and if the starter motor breaks down, the engine will not start.

Symptom: When you turn the key to start the engine of your Journey, you will hear a clicking sound, which is the sound of a bad starter motor. And if the starter motor does not work with a healthy battery, suspect a malfunction of the starter.

If the starter fails, it usually needs to be replaced with a new one.

Temporary fix for starter

If the engine does not start due to the starter, the engine may start if you turn the key while hitting the starter motor with something like a stick or metal tool. This workaround is effective when the parts inside the starter are stuck together or the gears are slightly out of alignment.

However, it is possible that the starter is nearing the end of its life, so it is recommended that you have it inspected at a dealer or maintenance shop.

5. Defective alternator

An alternator is a generator that produces electricity. If your Journey’s alternator fails, it will not be able to produce electricity and the battery will not be able to charge. Therefore, even if you think that the cause of the engine not starting is a battery failure and replace the battery, the battery will soon run out and the engine will not start.

Alternators rarely break down. In particular, modern cars have improved performance, so it is said that they will last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Still, it can break down depending on how you use it, and in the case of a used car, the alternator may be quite old. Don’t let your guard down.

If the alternator breaks down, it must be replaced with a new alternator.

6. Clogged fuel filter

The fuel filter of your Journey does not wear out like a mechanical part, but it gets clogged by dirt and airborne particles and clogs over time. The permeability of the filter drops, and so does the fuel pressure. To a certain extent this doesn’t matter, but if the fuel filter is too dirty, the engine will no longer perform at full capacity and in some instance may not start at all. Cleaning is not possible, you can only change the filter.

7. Fuel pump failure

If your Journey’s fuel pump fails, then the engine won’t start. The pump normally ensures that the necessary amount of fuel is passed from the tank to the injection system of the engine with sufficient pressure.

Before your fuel pump stops working, it usually becomes noticeable: if your car’s engine breaks down from time to time, the car is difficult to start, the engine jerks a little or the engine performance drops, you should have your pump checked.

Wear or contamination of the pump can be the reason for this. If the pump is leaking, a power contact is broken, a line or a pump lever is broken, the fuel pump is usually also noticeable before failure. You can have a defective fuel pump replaced in your workshop.

8. Blown fuse

In rare cases, a blown fuse could also be the culprit in the breakdown of your Journey. Check all fuses in the fuse box essential for starting the engine. But, be careful when lending a hand yourself to the fuse box! The box is under power and repairs or tests should always be done in a workshop.

9. Defective spark plugs

Without functioning spark plugs, the engine will not start. The spark plugs themselves are often not affected by a defect. Instead, plug connections on the ignition system come loose. If only one plug is actually loose, you can fix the problem yourself on site. If a spark plug has failed, it must be replaced in the workshop.

10. Rodent damage

Rodent damage can be another reason why your Dodge Journey won’t start. The animals crawl under the vehicle and bite through cables and wires. In principle, this can affect all vehicle systems such as the fuel supply, the oil supply or the power supply.

The rodent damage can usually be seen quickly by looking into the engine compartment. The damage caused by the rodent bite can be repaired in the workshop. Be prepared for relatively high costs here.

11. Engine failure

Although very rare, but it can also be the cause of the breakdown of your Journey. If a vehicle has an engine failure, then nothing works anymore. It is not uncommon for the driver of a vehicle to be responsible for such damage. Typical causes include tearing of the timing belt, incorrect fueling, insufficient oil, hydrolock, overheating of the engine, or continuous driving in an excessive speed range.

Only an experienced mechanic can diagnose engine failure in a workshop.

Use OBD2 scanner for diagnosis

Since Dodge Journey is equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD), a fault diagnosis can provide initial indications of where the malfunction is located.

To begin troubleshooting, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Journey. The OBDII connector is usually located under the dashboard. With the wire connected, you should turn the ignition on. But be careful not to start the engine. Most diagnostic devices then ask for some information about the vehicle. It is important that you enter this 100% correctly, otherwise the result of the search may be falsified. In addition to the vehicle manufacturer and model, you usually also have to type in the engine and vehicle ID number. For exact troubleshooting, always check whether the information is correct.

There are many reasons why your Journey may not start. When looking for the trigger, you should always start with the most obvious cause, the empty battery.

In any case, it is advisable for laypersons to call a breakdown service or a workshop. In the event of a defect, the latter can directly initiate the repair.

My Dodge Journey will not start after driving a short time, and then stopping about 20 minutes, then try to start, press lock unlock wait 10 minutes, car will then start every time.

This is a problem I am having with my Dodge Journey as well. I haven’t had this SUV 3 years and I am still paying on it.

My 2017 Dodge Journey ran fine in the morning yesterday, was totally dead last night – no locks, no dash lights, no power button. Long story short – disconnected + positive cable under hood to reset computer. Put cables back on after 10 min wait – got feeble spark while attaching wires. Entered car, found 4-way flashers indicating on dash. Button was accidentally depressed after morning drive. Charged battery for 1 hour with battery charger. Started fine, but needed to be driven extensively to fully charge 69-month old battery. Buying new battery tomorrow.

My dodge journey 2014 is not starting. It was stripped for overheating but now after the reassemble it’s not starting, VIN initialising and press clutch to start engine are showing on the clock

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Dodge Journey Not Starting: Causes + How to Fix

If your Dodge Journey doesn’t start, you’ve found the right article.  Many different issues can cause the problem.  We cover all the likely ones in an order that makes sense when diagnosing the issue at home.

This article is written with the assumption that you are looking for a way to get your Dodge Journey started now, and is meant to provide you with practical advice to help aid in the diagnosis.

First, is your Journey cranking over at all (the engine spins when you turn the key?  Or is the starter not engaging (you may hear a clicking sound)?

Table of Contents

Engine Not Cranking

Engine cranking, no start.

Here are the most common reasons why the Dodge Journey won’t start when the engine is not cranking .

1.  Battery Cables

Start by taking a look at the battery posts.  If they are loose or corroded, it acts as a barrier that can keep the starter from getting the voltage it needs to crank the engine.

If there appears to be green or white on them or the terminals, cleaning them may be what your Journey needs to get back on the road.

Here’s a good article from Napa on properly cleaning a battery terminal.

2.  Low Battery Voltage

As your vehicle’s battery ages, its cranking amperage decreases, leaving it with a diminished capacity for starting the engine.  Your Journey needs 12+ volts to start its engine .  

You can take your battery to the local parts store or even Walmart and have it tested to see if it still holds a charge.  

Alternatively, you can test the battery yourself with a voltage meter.  If the battery is in the vehicle and it’s under 12 volts, it’s likely bad unless your vehicle has been sitting for a while or something is drawing current.

If the battery is dead, it either isn’t storing enough voltage or it isn’t charging enough.

A bad alternator can cause your battery to drain to the point it can’t turn your Journey over. Suspect the alternator if the battery light stays on after charging your vehicle’s battery or jumping it.

3.  Starter Motor

The next thing to look at when your Journey isn’t starting would be the starter itself.  When the starter isn’t functioning, it is impossible to start your vehicle. 

A bad starter can make a clicking noise, no noise, or it can grind.  

When a starter goes bad, they will usually not give you much warning at first. Try repeatedly turning the key. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and it’ll “catch”.  

Or, you can beat the starter with a hammer. It really can get that one last start out of it.

Here are the common issues that can cause your Journey to crank but not start.  Your vehicle’s engine needs air, fuel, and a spark to run.

It is highly likely that if the engine is cranking but not starting that it has thrown an OBDII code. Use an OBDII scanner to check and see if the engine has thrown any trouble codes.  

The codes will likely be related to the potential issues listed below.  When applicable, we’ve listed the common trouble code(s) associated with the cause.

1.  Low Fuel Pressure

If your Journey isn’t getting enough fuel, or any fuel at all, it may have a bad fuel filter or a bad fuel pump .  Without the proper amount of fuel entering the combustion chamber, the Journey will crank but not start.

2.  Ignition Issues

One of the most significant issues that will cause a vehicle to crank but not start are ignition issues.  When there is no spark, the engine will not start.  You’ll probably have a misfire-related code such as P0300 , P0301, etc…

Many things, including bad spark plugs, bad coil packs, bad plug wires, computer issues, and more, can cause ignition issues. It’s likely your Journey had a rough idle before

3.  Engine Timing

If the engine’s ability to fire the spark plug at the right time is called “timing”.  If the spark plugs are firing at the wrong time, or something has happened to cause the camshaft to no longer be in sync with the crankshaft, your Journey won’t start.

There will usually be OBDII codes associated with timing-related problems, but not always.  P0013 is a common camshaft position-related code.  The crankshaft sensor can go bad as well.  When these sensors go bad, it can be impossible for your Journey to start.

4. Security

Most modern vehicles come with smart keys that have electronic protection built in.  This makes it more challenging for thieves to steal them.  

There are occasions where this security system will cause the Journey not to start, such as the key fob not working.  You’ll see a security warning when trying to crank the engine, though. 

5. Metering

MAF or MAP sensors measure the air entering your Journey’s engine.  If one of them has gone bad, it can cause the air-fuel mixture to be off enough to cause the vehicle not to start.

6.  Other Issues

There are a lot of issues that can cause your Journey not to start.  That’s why it is so important to check everything.  Here’s a great diagnostic chart that can walk you through diagnosing why a vehicle won’t start. 

Conclusion:  Dodge Journey Not Starting

There are many reasons that your Journey may not start.  Simple tests such as checking the battery with a voltage meter or scanning it with an OBD II scanner can really narrow down your list of potential causes.

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2010 Journey won't start

• journey start fob computer

By ponch326 December 14, 2015 in Electrical, Battery & Charging

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I purchased a brand new 2010 Dodge Journey in spring of 2010. It now only has about 50,000 kms . For the past year or so, I have had intermittent starting problems, I put the fob in , turn the key , the dash lights come on , there is a click , but it will not turn over. I can wait from a few minutes to a couple of days before it works again . I once had it towed home, locked it up , the next day the doors were unlocked and the car started. I know the battery is good , and the starter is good. The problem must be with the fob or computer . Dodge will not recall , although it seems alot of people are experiencing this exact problem. I cannot trust this vehicle . I cannot trust Dodge. I am not sure what to do.

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December 14, 2015

I have had this happen to me two times. This is my theory on the bad cell. One cell has a bad internal connection. Trying to start the car heats up the battery. This heat is just enough to close t

December 24, 2015

You need to go to someone who knows what they are doing we own Journey's we don't fix them Merry Christmas

take car to a parts store and have a load test done on the battery. if its org battery you need a new one...

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The fact that it is clicking means it is trying to start, so I am leaning away from the fob. This (one click) is usually a tell tale sign that the starter is not getting full voltage from the battery (i.e., a bad battery). You say that you know the battery is good; can you expand on how you know this to be true? There are many reasons why a battery may appear to be fine when in fact it is not...

• jkeaton and dhh3
• Taylor9208 , jkeaton and dhh3

The click is not coming from the engine , I know what a starter clicking sounds like , and its different. The click sounds like it comes from the dash somewhere. When I tried to start it , I have put the headlights on , and they do not dim at all , no voltage going to the starter or it would dim the lights . In most cases the vehicle did not move it just sat , and then started later . I have never had a battery issue , the dash and headlights are very strong , if it was a battery issue , I believe it would not start after sitting in the cold all night. I do believe its the fob or win module.

The old dreaded transmission interlock??

These newer Dodges are super finicky with the power supply. At 6+ years old, I would replace the battery, but if you don't want to do that I would at least load test it as mentioned. The battery doesn't have to be toast for it to not play nice with the car. Long gone are the days of the simple vehicles; all of the electronics present nowadays bring a new factor to the equation. One dead cell could wreak havoc.

• jkeaton , dhh3 and OhareFred

wouldn't this result in being stuck in gear? Or is it an intermittent thing?

Its an intermittent thing, every couple of weeks it leaves me stranded. When it happens , it won't start in park or neutral. Again , if the battery was weak , wouldn't the headlights dim when attempting to start ? My lights are very bright and do not dim . ! Makes me believe that power is not going to the starter at all . have read that people have had this problem and changed batteries or starters because dodge technicians told them and it did not fix the problem.

Sorry, I understood that your issue was intermittent, I was asking about the transmission interlock issue.

What larryl is getting at with his post is that the vehicle may not believe it is in Park or Neutral and is therefore not starting. I thought that when the interlock was bad it wouldn't shift at all, but thought I may be wrong. I was trying to clarify exactly what larryl was getting at.

• dhh3 and jkeaton

You may have a bad cell in the battery. It will test fine, but the battery is toast. These new cars do not tolerate low voltage. There are a series of events that must take place before the car will start. The clicking you hear is probably a relay. When the bad cell rears its ugly head, you do not have enough voltage for all of the instantaneous self test before it will start. This is why your lights do not dim.

• OhareFred and jkeaton

So dhh3 , you are saying it is probably the battery , but a test won't read that , and I should just get a new battery. I am surprized , but you maybe right. It can do this on warm or cold days , first started about 2 yrs ago, but would start after a minute , now it needs to sit a lot longer , very strange. Just want to make sure before the pain of removing the battery . Not a great place for it. I know you were not the first to say battery so Thanks everyone , if anyone else has had this problem , would love to hear about it.

I have had this happen to me two times. This is my theory on the bad cell. One cell has a bad internal connection. Trying to start the car heats up the battery. This heat is just enough to close the connection, and the car will start. I have an Electronics Degree from the Air Force: but, I could be wrong. Wouldn't be the first time. Just ask bramfrank.

• 11journeybama , ponch326 , OhareFred and 1 other

Larryl might be right aswell , the transmission interlock ...... is that the same as a neutral safety switch. Is that located in the shifter assembly or transmission. I have tried to rattle the shifter with no luck .

I took a chance and drove the Journey tonight . It did not restart ,and left me stranded but, luckily, I tried a boost on it . And it started .... so ...you guys were right. It must be the battery .. before , I had strong headlights that didn't dim when attempting a start and didn't think that I could have a low battery. But I was wrong. Gotta love computers lol . I will be buying a new battery tomorrow. Thanks everyone.

• 2 weeks later...

I put a new battery in last week , thought that was it , but the car won't start again. My wife is stranded right now . Although I know you are trying to help . That was not good advice , you need to listen to what I was saying , and the symptoms. . It is not the battery . It is a computer defect, or some other problem. I still am leaning towards the win module. What a waste of money before christmas .

You need to go to someone who knows what they are doing we own Journey's we don't fix them

Merry Christmas

• dhh3 , jkeaton , OhareFred and 1 other

well since you blame us for trying to guess what your problem is..i have a great idea try taking it to your trusted mechanic and let him drive drive it for a few days and or let him fix it for you after he does his diagnosis. sorry if this sounds rude but we have limited knowledge of your history of your car and now you complain of our ideas? also replacing a 5yrold battery is not a waste of money.

• jkeaton , OhareFred and dhh3

my 2011 journeys battery started going bad after about 3 yrs put in a new one just before i traded in for my 2014 crossroad journey so it can happen..

After sitting in the parking lot for an hour or so , it started again, drove it home and now it won't start again. I didn't mean to offend anyone, just very frustrated. You can google this and find people who were told by technicians that it was a battery or starter and they changed them 2 or 3 times and it still doesn't work. I can fix almost anything , I just can't figure out what the problem is. I do know the win modules were recalled from 2009 to jan 25 2010 and mine was built on jan 29 2010. But that is supposed to be an unrelated problem , and they won't change mine. Just hope someone has figured this problem out.

well thinking back to my 1989 dodge truck was having a similar problem changed out the battery due to age still intermittent starting problem took it into the dodge dealership they finally said it was a starter problem so about $200, for that fix worked for a while then started the intermittent starting problem so they changed out the starter again their dime and called and said it was ready to pick it up and wouldnt start walked back inside they went and looked at it again and then said it was a small electrical component ( might have been the solenoid) on top of the engine cost about $5. mech looked at the manager and said well we wont charged him for this are we and the manager made me pay him the $5. lol but never had any more problems with it. but EVEN dealers make wrong guess as to what is the real problem and they deal with it all the time.TAKE it to a dealership or a good electrical mechanic might be cheaper and safer in the long run instead of the shotgun approach....

You could simply have a bad alternator . . . . someone on the FB group in Chile had a no start issue that supposedly tuned out to be a bad pulley on the alternator.

Even a bad battery could just be s symptom.

Lol . Thanks 2late , you know what I am going through. I might need to take it in, I'm just afraid they will check the systems and tell me it must be the starter . Dealerships are very expensive in Canada. I will look into the electrical component you were talking about . It sounds similar , Are you sure it was on the top of the engine? By the way , the journey has always started at home , its when I go out and it sits for a few minutes to a few hours , and it won't start. Such as running into a store or getting gas .

Thanks bramfrank , but as i mentioned I just put a big new battery in it and have only driven no more than 20 miles ....it can't be the battery or alternator , if it were either it wouldn't start an hour later .

Batteries do 'recover' after use to some degree. I'm personally a fan of a solenoid or relay issue being the cause, but you'd mentioned that the lights dimmed on start (not to mention that your battery is 6 years old ad likely should have been changed anyway - possibly an intermittent ground or other connection to the coil or maybe a dead spot on a brush in the starter motor which is sensitive enough that slight changes in temperature are enough to make the connection. That leads to the obvious questions . . . . this is not unique. I've seen posts here and on other sites on no-start conditions. When you try to start the vehicle are there any clicks, clunks and so on at all? If you hear a relatively loud clunk, but the engine doesn't turn it could be the starter motor, the solenoid or the connections to it. No clunk at all implies the solenoid or the connections to that are involved - it could also be a worn relay in whatever module drives the solenoid (think expensive). There is a lot involved with the issue, but a good mechanic faced with the vehicle when it is refusing to start will almost certainly have little trouble diagnosing the problem and fixing it properly.

yes it was a small black plastic component on top of the motor not sure what it was and this was an 1989 truck so things have changed take it to a good mech. so many things it could be.

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