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Get a Battery for Your Dodge Journey

Don’t let a dead battery stop you. Shop replacement car batteries for your 2016 Dodge Journey at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

2016 Dodge Journey Battery Replacement & Size

Need more info about Dodge Journey batteries? Use this chart to find the right battery size and CCAs for your Dodge Journey.

Buy the Right Battery for Your Dodge Journey

You can pretty much drive your Dodge Journey until you don't want to anymore. But your Journey's battery? Don't count on it to last forever. Generally, car batteries  last from three to five years. Check your battery regularly and replace it as needed so it doesn’t leave you and your Dodge Journey stranded. Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A lagging starter, an illuminated battery or check engine light, swollen battery case, corrosion-covered posts, or dim headlights can all be signs that your battery needs attention.

Or, you can get a complimentary battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care. Our equipment can see how much charge is left in your battery. Drop in for a free battery check and, if needed, a replacement battery for your 2016 Dodge Journey. Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Dodge’s service specs for Journey car batteries’ reserve capacities and cold cranking amps. Get help choosing the battery size that's best for your Journey, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Why Choose a DieHard Battery for Your Journey?

We know what’s best for your Dodge Journey, which is why we only carry top-of-the-line replacement parts and batteries. Your vehicle needs a reliable, durable and powerful battery that can handle most extreme environments and weather conditions. DieHard Journey batteries surpass expectations using the latest innovative technology to meet the increasing power needs of new vehicles and their accessories. Don't call a DieHard battery ordinary. It's an extraordinary battery. Go with a DieHard battery for your Journey and drive with confidence knowing that your battery will perform when you need it. That’s why you should choose batteries from Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Caring for a New Dodge Journey Battery

Got a new car battery installed in your 2016 Dodge Journey? Congrats! You can give your new battery a head start with proper care and attention. turning off all of the lights when you leave your vehicle, decreasing the number of short trips you take, cleaning your battery posts, and avoiding radio and electronic component use when the engine is off.

Answers to Your Journey Car Battery Questions

Get answers to common car battery questions, from Firestone Complete Auto Care. If you have a battery question that's unique to your Dodge Journey battery, stop by your nearest store. Our technicians have the answers.

• Why won’t my Journey battery hold a charge? A car battery that needs to be jump-started every time is as good as dead. It may be getting old. Or, you may have been leaving your car doors ajar and the lights on overnight. Stop by for a free battery test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to learn more about the state of your battery.
• What do you do with my old Journey battery? We recycle it! Nearly 100% of all lead-acid batteries are recyclable.
• What’s the cost of DieHard batteries for Dodge Journeys? Get affordable prices on Dodge Journey batteries by using one of our limited-time battery deals. Plus, all DieHard car batteries come with a free replacement warranty and extra coverage with DieHard Assurance.
•  How long do car batteries last? Car battery lifespan varies depending on a few factors, including driving conditions, accessories,  how well it’s maintained, and the type of battery. On average, a car battery lasts about three to five years.
• What is the white, crusty substance accumulating on my Journey’s battery post? The white, crusty stuff that can accumulate around Journey car battery terminals is called corrosion. It is caused by a chemical reaction between the battery acid and the air, which creates a white, powdery substance that can build up on the terminals over time. Corrosion can interfere with the flow of electricity between the battery post and the car's electrical system, sometimes leading to poor electrical performance, difficulty starting, and even premature battery failure.
• How do I clean a corroded Journey battery terminal? You can help prevent or get rid of corrosion by regularly inspecting and cleaning your battery terminals . Before cleaning your battery, see your Journey owner's manual to learn how to disconnect the battery cables . After disconnecting the cables, use a mixture of water and baking soda, a wire brush, and a rag to carefully clean the terminals.
• Where can I find a battery for my Journey? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care sells and installs Journey batteries in your neighborhood. Our Firestone Direct mobile vans can even come to you and do it! Learn more about mobile battery services .

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Genuine Dodge Journey Car Batteries

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Dodge Journey Battery-Storage

• Replaced by : BB86F101AA
• 2019 Dodge Journey | Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, GT AWD, GT FWD, SE AWD, SE FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Other Name : Battery Storage
• 2009-2018 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Express FWD, GT AWD, GT FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : BP34A901AA
• 2009-2016 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Express FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : BA86F540AB
• 2010 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.5L

• Replaced by : BA86F690AB
• 2014-2016 Dodge Journey | Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L
• 2011-2012 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Express FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : BL34A901AA
• 2016-2017 Dodge Journey | Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, GT AWD, GT FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L
• 2009-2014 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Express FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : BP86F101AA

• Replaced by : BL86F101AA

• Replaced by : BB34A901AA
• 2017 Dodge Journey | Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, GT AWD, GT FWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L
• 2012 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : 56041380AF
• 2009 Dodge Journey | R/T AWD, R/T FWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L

• Replaces : 56041380AE
• 2020 Dodge Journey | Crossroad FWD, SE FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L

Dodge Journey Storage

• 2009-2014 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Express FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

• Replaced by : BD086520AA
• 2009-2015 Dodge Journey | Crew AWD, Crew FWD, Crossroad AWD, Crossroad FWD, Express FWD, Heat AWD, Heat FWD, Hero AWD, Hero FWD, Limited AWD, Limited FWD, LUX AWD, LUX FWD, Mainstreet AWD, Mainstreet FWD, R/T AWD, R/T FWD, R/T Rallye AWD, SE AWD, SE FWD, SXT AWD, SXT FWD | 4 Cyl 2.4L, 6 Cyl 2.7L, 6 Cyl 3.5L, 6 Cyl 3.6L

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General Motor Club 🔧 Repair Guides 🔧 Dodge 🔧 Journey 🔧 Dodge Journey battery location and replacement

Dodge Journey battery location and replacement

• Post author By jannousiainen
• Post date 27 September 2021
• No Comments on Dodge Journey battery location and replacement

The battery in the Dodge Journey is located in an unusual location for most car batteries: it is mounted on a bumper shelf under the left side headlight. The wheel arch liner can’t protect it from dirt flying off the wheel, creating a corrosive environment. Therefore, when replacing the battery, you almost always have to replace the terminals as well.

Usually, the battery replacement on the Dodge Journey is done by removing the left front wheel and part of the fender. Manipulation to remove the battery, fix it, and put the terminals through a niche in the fender is not the most convenient and “clean”.

Important: “Asiatic” with 200mm high body + 20mm terminals, without removing the bumper is very problematic to install and secure.

The size of the basket allows you to install a battery up to 25 cm long, and 19 cm high.

Given the inability to easily replace the battery with a new one yourself, or dismantle it to charge it with a stationary charger at home, we recommend buying only a premium battery for your Dodge Journey: a powerful and reliable one. You should also not wait for the “natural death” of the battery, but rather change it routinely every three years, with the replacement to be carried out at the service

Dodge Journey battery selection rules:

• Only a battery with a left-hand “plus” (straight polarity) will fit;
• the battery does not need to have a bottom rim, because the battery in the Dodge Journey is secured at the top with a clamping plate;
• for all gasoline engines can be used battery capacity 60-64 Ah, size 245h175h190 mm or 245h175h175 mm

Important: When the battery is replaced, nothing more than a routine reset of the stored values in the control unit occurs in any Dodge Journey model or configuration. De-energizing the system during battery replacement resets the daily mileage and injection system RAM tables.

The Dodge Journey uses the Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS), which is a smart battery sensor (located on the minus terminal).

In addition, the car uses starters that don’t require high cranking currents from the battery. Improved ECU programs for cold and hot starts of the engine: switching on start from 40-100 engine rpm, mixture enrichment control by rpm and temperature, RPM position, ignition angle dependent on rpm, reduced fuel injection time, multi-spark plug mode at low engine rpm.

Always install a quality branded battery in the car, selected according to the characteristics required by the manufacturer, not according to the advertising slogans of battery sellers.

In this video we will show you where the battery is located on Dodge Journey

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Home » Troubleshooting » Dodge Journey dead battery symptoms, causes, and how to jump start

Dodge Journey dead battery symptoms, causes, and how to jump start

Dodge Journey needs a healthy 12 volt battery for normal operation of the vehicle. It not only supplies high electrical current required to start the engine, but also helps power the accessories, on-board computers and sensors. So, what happens when this battery becomes too weak?

The most common symptoms of dead battery in Dodge Journey are slow engine crank, no start, dim lights, flickering dashboard lights and clicking noises when trying to start the engine. The most common causes of dead battery in Journey are internal degradation of the battery due to old age, and bad alternator – but can also be caused by parasitic draw, and if the vehicle has been parked for a long time.

1. Slow engine crank

The 12 volt battery is a vital component of the starting system in Dodge Journey. It powers the starter motor that turns over the engine. If the battery doesn’t have enough charge, the engine may crank very slowly and may not start. Slow crank is usually the first symptom of a dying battery.

Symptom: Slow engine crank sound

2. clicking noise and no start.

The leading cause of clicking noise and no start in Dodge Journey is weak battery. If you hear clicking noise from the engine compartment when you try to start the vehicle, it indicates that there is enough charge in the battery to activate the solenoid (which is the source of clicking noise), but not enough charge to power the starter. The starter motor requires high electric current to turn over the engine, whereas lights and wipers take very little current to operate – so don’t rule out weak battery even if electrical accessories work normally in your Journey.

3. Flickering dashboard lights

Another symptom of weak battery in Journey is flickering dashboard lights and/or rapid clicking noise when you try to start the engine. If there isn’t enough charge in the battery to power the starter motor, and you try to crank the engine, the battery voltage will get so low that it can’t properly power the lights, accessories and of-course the starter. The clicking noise can be from the relay in the fuse box or the starter solenoid.

Symptom: Rapid clicking sound

How to test the battery in journey.

The easiest method to check the 12v battery in Journey is by measuring the voltage with a multimeter. A healthy battery should have 12.6 volts or more when fully charged. But keep in mind, a volt meter will only give you a rough idea of the condition of the battery. Sometimes a battery showing over 12.4 volts may not be able to supply enough current to crank the engine.

Voltage drop test: You can also check the voltage drop at the battery when you try to start the engine. If the voltage drops too much, below 10 volts, your battery doesn’t have enough charge to start the engine. This can happen due to internal degradation of the battery, if the vehicle has been sitting for a long time, or if the alternator in your Journey has malfunctioned and not charging the battery properly.

How to jump start Journey

To rule out dead battery, your best course of action is to jump start your Journey using jumper cables and a healthy battery from another vehicle, or using a battery booster if available.

Requirements: The engine of both the vehicles should be off, and the transmission in Park.

• Connect the red cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery in Journey.
• Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of donor battery.
• Connect the black cable to the negative terminal of donor battery.
• Finally connect the other end of the black cable to any bare unpainted metal part of the body or engine of your Journey.
• Start your Journey.
• Remove the cables in the reverse order.

Warning: There is always a risk of burning up the alternator or other electrical components if the engine of the donor battery vehicle is running during jump start. Therefore it is recommended to keep the engine of the donor vehicle off when jump starting your Journey.

Recommended video

Replace the dead battery

If the battery in your Journey has become too weak and loses its charge quickly after recharging it by running the engine for some time or with a battery charger, its time to replace the old battery. Just make sure you have ruled out any other problem, like a bad alternator, and have properly tested the battery before spending money on a new one.

• Then disconnect the positive terminal of the battery.
• Remove all the bolts from the tie-down and take out the battery.
• Clean the disconnected terminals and the surface under the battery.
• Place in the new battery.
• Screw in all the bolts and tighten them down. Make sure the battery is snug.
• Then connect the negative terminal of the battery.
• Apply some silicone grease on the terminals to prevent corrosion.

Causes of dead battery

Internal degradation of the battery.

The leading cause of dead battery in Dodge Journey is internal degradation due to old age. Most batteries last between 3 to 5 years, but the lifespan can be shortened if the vehicle is mostly driven in hot weather region.

Faulty alternator

The alternator in Journey converts mechanical energy from the engine to electricity that not only powers all the on-board accessories, but also charges the battery. If the alternator develops a fault and stops generating electricity, the entire electrical load of the vehicle will shift to the battery. This drains out the battery quickly as it is no longer getting charged by the alternator. You don’t need to replace the battery in this case.

Alternators can fail at any time, but generally they last over 100,000 miles. The easiest method to check the alternator is by measuring the voltage at the battery terminals when the engine is running.

Parasitic draw

If your Journey continues to draw excessive electric current from the battery after you turn off the ignition, it is called parasitic draw. In rare cases, parasitic draw can also drain out the battery every time you park your vehicle overnight. Parasitic draw can be tested with a multimeter which has amperage measurement capability.

Parked for a long time

Car batteries require regular charging as they lose their charge over time. If your Journey has been sitting in the garage for months, the battery will eventually drain out and you won’t be able to start the engine. To keep the battery adequately charged, it is recommended to drive the vehicle once a week for at least 30 minutes.

Poor battery connection can cause dead battery symptoms

It is possible the battery in your Dodge Journey is in good health, but the current flow is interrupted due to a loose electrical connection, a damaged wire, or corrosion on the battery terminals. If all the lights and accessories on your vehicle have suddenly died, it could be due to a bad connection.

Corrosion on battery terminals

Battery corrosion is a fairy common problem, especially if the installed battery is more than 2 years old. Corrosion occurs when the battery acid reacts with the metal terminals which can lead to loss of contact and reduced current flow. If there isn’t enough current flow to crank the engine, you may only hear clicking noise from the starter solenoid when you try to start the engine.

Check battery terminals

To know if your Journey starting problems are from dirty battery terminals, you need to investigate them. Lift the plastic covers over the terminals and check for any signs of corrosion. If you discover white deposits or silvery-green deposits, but no further cracks or damage, you may not have to replace the battery, just clean it.

Clean the battery terminals

Quick cleaning: There is a neat little trick with which you can clean corrosion on the battery terminals of your Journey in under a minute. Pour hot boiling water over the corroded terminals and the corrosion will just melt away. Do one terminal at a time and don’t let water puddle on the top of the battery touch both terminals at the same time, this can short the battery.

Thorough cleaning: To thoroughly clean the battery in your Dodge Journey, you have to remove the terminal 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 terminal using a wrench or a plier. Next you can unplug the red positive terminal cable. Be careful not to touch both terminals with your metal tool, it will be one expensive mistake. Once the battery has been removed from the circuit, you can start cleaning the corroded battery with sandpaper or wire brush. After cleaning, reconnect the cables in reverse order, positive first, then negative.

Poor ground connection can cause dead battery symptoms

What is a ground connection.

The negative terminal of the battery is connected to the body/chassis of Journey, called a ground connection. The engine also requires a ground connection to function, but the way the engine is mounted, it does not allow the electric current to flow between the engine and the body (due to non-conductive rubber insulated engine mounts). For this purpose, a ground strap/wire is used to connect the engine and the chassis.

What happens when the ground connection goes bad?

If the ground connection of the chassis or the engine goes bad in your Journey due to rust or corrosion, you will face all sorts of electrical issues, including clicking noises and no start problem. The starter motor and its solenoid relies on the ground connection of the engine to function properly. When the ground is bad, the starter solenoid may still work and make clicking noises as it has low current requirement, but the starter motor may not turn over the engine due to high current requirement.

How to check if the ground connection is good?

You can check the quality of the ground connection in Journey by doing a conductivity test between the negative terminal of the battery and the engine. Take a multimeter, change its settings to ohms symbol. Touch one probe to the negative terminal of the battery, and the other probe to any exposed metal part of the engine. The reading should be at or very close to zero ohms. Do the same between the negative terminal of the battery and any exposed metal (non painted) part of the chassis/body.

Inspect and clean the ground connections

If the conductivity test fails, check the condition of the ground connections in your Journey. Inspect the connectors of the ground cables (battery to body, body to engine) for any signs of rust or corrosion. Clean the contacts with a sandpaper.

If your Dodge Journey is hard to start, has slow crank, or makes clicking noise when you try to start the engine, it most probably is due to dead battery. But before replacing the battery, you should rule out any other problems that may cause the dead battery symptoms, e.g. bad alternator, loose battery connection, or poor ground connection. Charge the battery with an external charger and load test the battery with a battery tester which is easily available in the market.

You obviously did not know where the battery is located on a Dodge Journey of any year. FYI it is located in front of the driver side wheel and you can not get to the terminals unless you take the wheel off and remove the plastic wheel well material. There are terminals under the hood for jump starting.

The video in the article shows how to jump start by connecting to the terminals under the hood.

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Dodge Journey Battery Draining:  Causes + Diagnosis

If your Dodge Journey’s battery is draining, it’s something that’ll need addressing right away.  If it is draining while your Journey isn’t running, something is drawing current that shouldn’t be.

If the battery drains while driving, there’s likely an issue with your vehicle’s alternator.

The two primary causes for a battery to deplete are parasitic power loss or a faulty battery.

Dodge Journey:  Battery Draining While Parked Causes

If your vehicle is running fine when you park it, and it won’t start, there is an issue with the charging system (alternator, battery, or battery cables) or a parasitic power draw. 

Parasitic Power Draw

A parasitic power draw is when something is drawing current from your Dodge Journey’s battery after you turn the vehicle off, like an interior light or a malfunctioning component.  

To fix this issue, you’ll need to test for a parasitic power draw.  Here’s how:

Remove the negative cable from your Journey’s battery and use a multimeter to measure the draw. The draw should be less than 25 milliamps (0.025 amps) . If it’s higher than that, then something is drawing current, and it must be addressed.

Before connecting a multimeter to the battery, verify that the dome light is shutting off when you close the doors.  A faulty door switch (that turns the dome light on and off) frequently causes a parasitic power drain .  

Other causes include a trunk/tailgate release switch that is always on, a headlight switch stuck in the “on” position, aftermarket accessories such as an alarm system or CD changer, damaged wiring harnesses, and faulty relays.

Battery Cables

Examine your Journey’s battery posts where they attach to the battery. If significant corrosion is present, use a wire brush to clean it. Corrosion can impede proper battery connection, leading to drainage issues.

There are specific battery post cleaners that you can buy.  They are usually less than 10 bucks at the local parts store or Wal-Mart. Otherwise, sandpaper can work if you’re in a pinch, just make sure to wear gloves. 

Bad Battery

When the battery depletes while parked, it’s likely due to the battery itself. If your Journey’s battery light illuminates while driving before parking, the alternator is probably responsible for the battery drainage (or in this case, not recharging).

If you didn’t see a battery light, and now your vehicle is dead when you start it, the first thing you need to look at is the battery.

A good anecdotal way to tell if there is a parasitic drain and not a bad battery is to unplug the negative battery cable when you park your vehicle for the period it usually takes for the battery to drain.  

If it fires right back up when you hook the battery up, you need to be looking for a parasitic battery drain.

You can take it up to the local parts store and have your Journey’s battery tested.  They’ll need to charge it for a while, so plan on dropping it off and returning a few hours later.  

If it passes the test, it’s time to move on to the alternator.

If the parasitic power draw isn’t the issue, and the battery, checks out, it’s time to test the alternator. You can do this at home with a voltmeter.

Testing at Home

Set the meter to measure AC volts and connect one of its leads to the positive side of the battery, then start your Journey. Connect the other lead to ground near the alternator. 

The voltage should be above 13.5-14 volts when your Journey’s running ; if it isn’t, you may need a new alternator.  Switch the air conditioner to max A/C and turn on the headlights, then check that the voltage remains steady. The alternator should adjust nearly instantly.

Parts Store

Most parts stores can test an alternator for you to ensure it’s charging properly. However, they use a machine in store, so you’ll need to pull the alternator, which is why we suggest testing it with a voltmeter first.

Likely, the alternator didn’t sufficiently charge your Journey’s battery while the vehicle was in operation, resulting in a depleted battery.  

Parts stores don’t charge anything for this service, they just want to sell you an alternator if you need it.

Battery Draining While Driving:  Dodge Journey

If your battery is draining while driving, it is almost without exception the Journey’s alternator that is causing the problem.  If it is you should see the battery or alternator light on, it indicates that the alternator is not creating the necessary voltage to charge the battery.

It could be a bad battery, or more likely a bad battery cable too.  But it’s not very likely.  If you hear a whining noise accompanied by the battery light, it’s almost guaranteed that it’s the alternator that is at fault.

If your Journey’s battery is draining after being parked for a few days, here’s a solid order to diagnose the problem:

• The battery itself has gone bad and just can’t hold a charge long enough to be of any use after the vehicle sits and it drains.
• If unexpected power consumption occurs, begin by inspecting all lights. Check if the glove compartment light in your Journey turns off or if any map lights remain on. Examine accessory plugs for any connected devices drawing power, and look for aftermarket accessories. If none is found, an electrical issue could be the cause.
• Inspect the battery cables for corrosion.  Clean if necessary.
• Use a multimeter to verify that there is no power draw.  If there is, track down the power drawing accessory or short circuit.
• Test the battery (replace your battery if necessary).
• Test the alternator.

  Conclusion:  Journey’s Battery Draining

Good luck running down what is causing your battery to drain in your Dodge Journey.  If there is anything you would like to add, please leave a comment below.

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• Electrical, Battery & Charging

What drains Dodge Journey's battery when switched off?

By Sthembiso Mkhwanazi July 8, 2014 in Electrical, Battery & Charging

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Sthembiso mkhwanazi.

I have had Dodge Journey RT 2.7 2010 model and have experienced numerous battery failures. I would like to know what causes this. I have had the battery replaced, but no change. I suspect that the car tracker installed by the manufacturer might be the cause. I learnt that the manufacturer installs tracker on all vehicles to enable them to track vehicles should the transporting truck be lost or hijacked on its way to the Dealer. I say this as just after I bought my car I got a call from a Tracker Company asking me if I would like to take over the tracker installed in my car. Though I did not take the offer, i still suspect that the tracker drains the battery. Last week I took my car to the Battery Center to have my battery tested and I was told that there is absolutely nothing wrong with the battery.

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Journey_SeXT

Most likely a parasitic draw on the battery that drains it. Here is an excellent how to video if you would like to find what the culprit is on your own:

• Shawn855 and J.Khan

Motor Age also has articles on this subject. ( http://www.searchautoparts.com/motorage )

Search for parasitic electrical drain, or parasitic battery drain.

Also, it is possible that it is not necessarily a system failure, but some system that is not being shut down. I have read that if left set very long, even the auto lock monitoring system will drain the battery (the circuit that is waiting for you to hit the button on the key fob - Mine's a base model that doesn't have it, & now I'm glad). Maybe other things like the A/C, windshield wipers? I don't know how those are handled by the computer. What people are saying is that anything that keeps the computer awake will do it. The days of "When it's off it's off" are apparently past.

Anytime you add electronics to base OE electronics on todays

vehicles if it isn't done properly you will undoubtedly load the

load the off key system.

The add on must be controlled by the system (CanBus in our case).

There were some problems with the BCM (body control module)

staying on alert mode and this was resolved by reflash of software.

I believe the tracking system used in South Africa is just an add-on similar

to LOJACK which is availiable in US/CAN and your probably

correct that 24 hour ever on system is a source of constant

draw on the battery.

• 1 month later...

Had the same issue (twice) with my '13 R/T. After a lot of experimenting, at home and at the dealership (I get along very well with them; we're all good country boys :-), we found that where I hung the keys by the door was too close to the car. It sensed the fobik and kept all of the electronics active waiting for a command of some sort instead of letting the electronics go to sleep. I started keeping the keys in the bedroom, more than 15' away from the car, and have had no further issues concerning the dead battery syndrome...car goes to sleep and the battery stays good to go.

According to the research done by the dealership, the Journey should be able to last 3-4 weeks in "sleep mode" before the battery starts to go, but, when in standby, the count goes to a day, two days, maybe three depending on the base charge state of the battery at that time. When they are shipped from the factory, they are shipped in a "Transport Mode" that isolates the electronics from the battery and once the vehicle gets to the dealership, the shop turns off the transport mode to put the vehicle on the sales lot. Some vehicles, they said, that were going to be on the lot for awhile are left in the transport mode until someone wants to test drive them at which time the electronics would be activated again. They showed me the process on the car and the instructions for activation and de-activation on their StarScan device. It requires the simultaneous pushing of several buttons on the dash, but, though I wrote the process down, I can't remember where I put them...

• 3 years later...

Hi.I also have the same problem with my Dodge  Journey 2013 which I bought used,with 44,000 mileage. 5 months after I bought it,my battery  went dead and got checked out from canadian tire and told me battery  is defective (but when i bought it,battery was new)so they replaced it,it was fine for 2 months but battery  died again,it happens everytime I dont use my car just for a day,so brought to Denham Chrysler lloydminster alberta for service,wherein they told me it's a faulty battery  again(sorry,no idea bout cars so just trusted it to experts)so they just replaced battery  again but after few months I need to boost my car again then return it to Denham(again) and finally did a parasitic draw test,told me they cant find any draw so something in my car might be left on when i dont use it,they just replaced my battery  again and told me i need to make sure i turn off everything when i leave my car so that my battery  wont be drained again so i did,lights,usb ports,radio,ac.and anything that i know that uses power.And just after a month,same thing happened,and i return my car again to the same service,unfortunately they said they cant find the draw,so just got my car back and brought it to denham vermillion.Leaving my car for few days in service like i always do for further checking,finally they found out that draw is coming from my hands free system,wherein it's trying to connect to my phone automatically even if i dont pair it(but i never use my handsfree or bluetooth;weird!)took my car home once but i still left it there for a week already and till now, they cant still figure out whats happening,still waiting for their update,feel hopeless now,dont know if they can fix it:((( Glad if somebody can help me bout my car problem,bought it for 19 gran and works hard to pay for it till now,but causes a lot of hassle especially on winter,wondering if i can still swap it if they cant really fix it..please help.

8 hours ago, Zandy said: Hi.I also have the same problem with my Dodge  Journey 2013 which I bought used,with 44,000 mileage. 5 months after I bought it,my battery  went dead and got checked out from canadian tire and told me battery  is defective (but when i bought it,battery was new)so they replaced it,it was fine for 2 months but battery  died again,it happens everytime I dont use my car just for a day,so brought to Denham Chrysler lloydminster alberta for service,wherein they told me it's a faulty battery  again(sorry,no idea bout cars so just trusted it to experts)so they just replaced battery  again but after few months I need to boost my car again then return it to Denham(again) and finally did a parasitic draw test,told me they cant find any draw so something in my car might be left on when i dont use it,they just replaced my battery  again and told me i need to make sure i turn off everything when i leave my car so that my battery  wont be drained again so i did,lights,usb ports,radio,ac.and anything that i know that uses power.And just after a month,same thing happened,and i return my car again to the same service,unfortunately they said they cant find the draw,so just got my car back and brought it to denham vermillion.Leaving my car for few days in service like i always do for further checking,finally they found out that draw is coming from my hands free system,wherein it's trying to connect to my phone automatically even if i dont pair it(but i never use my handsfree or bluetooth;weird!)took my car home once but i still left it there for a week already and till now, they cant still figure out whats happening,still waiting for their update,feel hopeless now,dont know if they can fix it:((( Glad if somebody can help me bout my car problem,bought it for 19 gran and works hard to pay for it till now,but causes a lot of hassle especially on winter,wondering if i can still swap it if they cant really fix it..please help.

That really hurts to try to read.....I think you broke the longest run on sentence record.

I'm sorry,just wanted to give a full detail,to sum it up,bought my dodge journey and battery keeps on draining,service said faulty battery,so was changed 4th times already,went for second opinion and said might be my hands free system thats draining,but theyre not sure and still cant figure out how to fix it....no idea about cars so i hope somebody could help me..

This might sound incredibly simple but is the backseat power outlet being used? I know on mine it still charges even when the car isn't on. Other than that I'm not sure what else it could be unless like Zandy said, you are keeping the keys close to the car. 

On 10/18/2017 at 2:43 PM, Zandy said: I'm sorry,just wanted to give a full detail,to sum it up,bought my dodge journey and battery  keeps on draining,service said faulty battery,so was changed 4th times already,went for second opinion and said might be my hands free system thats draining,but theyre not sure and still cant figure out how to fix it....no idea about cars so i hope somebody could help me..

find a different dealership..

Thanks for the responses:).Anyways,never used my backseat outlet,so i dont turn it on,key is faraway from my garage.They told me they did further draw test,(car is been there more than a week now)and draw is intermittent as they say, I feel that service is really having a hard time.Do you think its a hopeless case?If this is a unit problem,can i still swap my car(bought it 2015),did'nt realize its not a battery  problem anymore till this year.(because service keeps on telling me its just a faulty battery  along the years):(((

• 11 months later...

I am having the trouble with  battery  as well and after reading some things on here I have come to the conclusion that the radio/gps is drawing almost 4 amps while the car sits in sleep mode causing the batteryto drain. All I had to do is perform a parasitic draw test and found the culprit. Now I have to find out him much it will cost to replace.  

• jkeaton and OhareFred

• 2 weeks later...

Journey2010RT

Domkrzy21 how much did it cost to repair the radio/gps that is draining the battery ? Was that the problem?

Joirney2010RT I have not replaced it yet, I’ve been just pulling the fuse when parked for extended amounts of time. My plan is to run a toggle switch inside the dashboard to just flip it on and off rather than popping the hood and pulling the fuse. The radio still works as well as the gps so why bother replacing it. 

What fuse # is the Radio and the GPS? Which fuse box  is it in? I have to keep the horn fuse out all the time (which can be dangerous) otherwise it will randomly go off driving or when it is parked. I also need to know how to turn off the BlueTooth. Any help is so appreicated.

I believe it is M12 fuse under the hood and will be a green 30 amp fuse. As far as shutting Bluetooth off on the vehicle, I’m not sure but you can go into settings on your phone and delete that pairing as well. Since I disconnected the fuse I haven’t had a problem yet but that’s the key word with dodge journeys. I also installed a remote start after disconnecting the fuse and still no issues. 

My battery  is shot per a reputable repair shop. I took my car back to The orginal repair shop that installed my battery , it was under warranty. The original repair shop said they replaced my battery  and voided the remaining 6 months that the battery  should be under warranty by noting on the invoice, " BATTERY  WARRANTY VOIDED."

i don't believe it was replaced by original repair shop because it would not start 15 minutes after I left the repair shop.

Question......if I charge the shot  battery  for a long time  will it make a difference? Or will I continue to have this issue?

It is my 3rd battery in 12 months. The labor to put in the battery  is as much as the battery  or close. I am exhausted with this issue but don't want to sell for a lose. It may be a simple fuse problem.

Any additional insight?

It is not your battery  , I replaced it 2 times and still had issues starting it a few days later. You need to do the parasitic draw test to see what is draining your battery.  Mine just happened to be the radio. 

We have a 2012 Dodge Journey  Crew AWD and this year starting having issues too.  I feel like we had it pinpointed to the bluetooth system, but just today the clock reset when we started the car, so I'm nervous again that we're going to have a dead Journey one morning again.  Anyway, here is my time line...

January 2016: Bought vehicle used at 47,000 miles.  

August 2017: Bluetooth system stopped working properly.

December 2017: Replaced original battery.  Car did not start after cold night outside.  CCA (Cold Cramp Amps) was low. 

March 2018: Car started slow and check engine light came on.  Determination was alternator was shot.  Seemed early (70,000~ miles), but made sense I guess.

April 2018: Car did not start, same check engine light diagnosis.  Battery was replaced under warranty, but at this point seemed like something else was in play.

May 2018: Almost exactly a month later, car did not start again.  Took car to our reputable auto shop and they had it the full week without being able to determine an issue.  Only 1 time during the week did they notice a large draw and by the time they started pulling fuse, the draw was done.  They did however pull out the bluetooth fuse.

July 2018: Radio speaker did not work.  Pulled radio and amp fuse for 5 minutes, put back in, and speaker worked.  This occured again in September.

July 2018: Bluetooth fuse was put back in and car started slow on mornings.  Removed bluetooth fuse and have not had a dead battery since.

Today (12-16-18): Radio clock was 12:00 when we started the car.  Car started fine.  

I thought we had it pinpointed since had no issues since July after bluetooth fuse was removed.  But today with the clock reset, I'm worried we may not... 

Any feedback on a similar issue is appreciated.

On 10/23/2018 at 11:08 AM, Domkrzy21 said: It is not your battery  , I replaced it 2 times and still had issues starting it a few days later. You need to do the parasitic draw test to see what is draining your battery.  Mine just happened to be the radio. 

Did you ever receive a quote on a radio replacement? I think that is my issue too.   I had no issues after removing Bluetooth fuse but lately feel like it's turning over slower in morning.  I think it may be the radio on mine as well.

• 9 months later...

On 12/16/2018 at 11:10 AM, natefrog2 said: We have a 2012 Dodge Journey  Crew AWD and this year starting having issues too.  I feel like we had it pinpointed to the bluetooth system, but just today the clock reset when we started the car, so I'm nervous again that we're going to have a dead Journey one morning again.  Anyway, here is my time line...   January 2016: Bought vehicle used at 47,000 miles.   August 2017: Bluetooth system stopped working properly. December 2017: Replaced original battery.  Car did not start after cold night outside.  CCA (Cold Cramp Amps) was low.  March 2018: Car started slow and check engine light came on.  Determination was alternator was shot.  Seemed early (70,000~ miles), but made sense I guess. April 2018: Car did not start, same check engine light diagnosis .  Battery was replaced under warranty, but at this point seemed like something else was in play. May 2018: Almost exactly a month later, car did not start again.  Took car to our reputable auto shop and they had it the full week without being able to determine an issue.  Only 1 time during the week did they notice a large draw and by the time they started pulling fuse, the draw was done.  They did however pull out the bluetooth fuse. July 2018: Radio speaker did not work.  Pulled radio and amp fuse for 5 minutes, put back in, and speaker worked.  This occured again in September. July 2018: Bluetooth fuse was put back in and car started slow on mornings.  Removed bluetooth fuse and have not had a dead battery since. Today (12-16-18): Radio clock was 12:00 when we started the car.  Car started fine.     I thought we had it pinpointed since had no issues since July after bluetooth fuse was removed.  But today with the clock reset, I'm worried we may not...    Any feedback on a similar issue is appreciated.    

Sorry to resurrect an old post, but we have the same yr/model journey with the same issue with our bluetooth.  Which fuse did you pull?  I dont see one on the diagram specifically for bluetooth.

I had to take out the fuse for the alarm system because it was also draining the battery and sometimes my car alarm would sound for no reason. These journeys are a nightmare and seems like once I solve 1 problem another arises. 

23 hours ago, monkey said: Sorry to resurrect an old post, but we have the same yr/model journey with the same issue with our bluetooth.  Which fuse did you pull?  I dont see one on the diagram specifically for bluetooth. Thank you!  

I dont have the exact fuse # handy but I know it was in the panel by glove box and was labeled bluetooth in the manual.  To this point I have not had dead battery issues when this fuse is out (over 1 year).  So I'm guessing a bad bluetooth module is causing the issue.  I bought a new BT module but haven't installed it yet.  Dealer wanted 600 to replace it but I found part for 250 online.  I'm just nervous that issues may arise again if i replace it... 

I have a 2017 SXT I bought new in early 2018.  When it was 9 months old, the battery  was stone dead after being parked 6 days.  The dealer blamed the dashcam, even though the outlet is switched.  After charging it for 1/2 a day so it could be tested, they said nothing was wrong with the battery .  They were nice and didn't charge me $140 for no fault found.  The very next morning, it was stone dead again.  Rather than waste another day and potentially pay $140 for nothing, I just bought a new battery  on my dime.  No problem since, and I do leave the dashcam plugged in.

• NavalLacrosse and jkeaton

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Best used cars to buy in 2024: From trucks and SUVs to EVs

M any car and truck buyers are increasingly being priced out of the new vehicle market as every month seems to set a new record for average transaction prices. What's more, interest rates are at levels that are higher than they were for many years, leading to higher monthly payments. The good news, though, is that financial relief can be found if you’re willing to look at a used but "new-to-you" vehicle that’s still in good condition and that should provide several years of trouble-free service.

We’re breaking down this list of the best used cars to buy in 2024 by price first, then by vehicle segment. We’ll offer a couple of solid suggestions in each category, along, when appropriate, with an alternative or two for those who dare to be a little different. Be aware that the used vehicle market is an ever-changing one , and that your location within the United States can have an impact on the price you pay and the availability of certain models . If you're willing to spend some time and do a little searching ( our classifieds are a great place to start ), you ought to be able to find the right vehicle for your family while fitting nicely within the constraints of your budget.

Best used cars under $10,000

Best used car under $10,000 overall pick: 2014-2020 hyundai elantra.

These days, the pickin's are slim in the under-$10,000 used car bracket. Our top pick goes to the 2014-2020 Hyundai Elantra . It's a compact car, but there's room enough for a small family if they don't mind being close. The Hyundai's reliability record is solid, and since it's fairly new, it packs more safety technology than an older car. The 2014 Hyundai Elantra received some desirable updates, and a completely new model hit the U.S. market in 2017 . At this price point, you'll likely find older models with more equipment or newer models without some high-tech options you may prefer to have. Take a look around and pick the one you like the best.

Best used car under $10,000 for more cargo: 2017-2019 Kia Soul

If you need something with a bit more room for cargo, the Kia Soul is a solid choice . Its funky design helps it stand out from the crowd, and though not quite as efficient as the Elantra, the Soul's range of four-cylinder engine options ought to prove fairly thrifty.

Most reliable used car under $10,000: Any Toyota Camry

If all else fails, it's hard to go wrong with the nicest Toyota Camry you can find. There's a reason Toyota's midsize sedan has sold so well for so many years. Its record for reliability is basically unmatched, it's been sold with both four- and six-cylinder engine options so buyers can tailor their choice for their needs and wants, and it has room inside for families.

Best used EV under $10,000: 2011-2017 Nissan Leaf

Yes, you can buy an electric car for less than $10,000. The Nissan Leaf was America's first mass-market EV , first hitting the scene for the 2011 model year. They sold in good enough numbers that they aren't hard to find for sale. The early Leaf hatchback didn't come with a particularly big battery — if you travel more than 70ish miles in a day, this probably isn't your top choice — but it's 73-84-mile range is enough for a good chunk of the population.

Best used SUV under $10,000: 2011-2020 Dodge Journey

You'll be hard pressed to find an SUV you like in this price range. The Dodge Journey never won any desirability awards when it was new, and it hasn't gotten any more likable with age. But it offers three rows of seats, optional all-wheel drive and a comparably low price, which are big wins for a lot of buyers. We'd suggest casting a wide net and being willing to drive a bit further than you'd like in order to find a Journey with a Pentastar V6 engine instead of the grossly underpowered four-cylinder. 

Most common used SUV under $10,000: 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue

The best thing about the Nissan Rogue is that it sold really well for a very long time. That means there are a lot of them on the used market. The Rogue doesn't carry the resale value of rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 , and that means it's more attainable for buyers with limited funds to spend. The continuously variable transmission isn't very rewarding, and repair bills can be high if something goes wrong. On the positive side, the CVT does improve fuel efficiency.

Best used truck for under $10,000: 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota

The Dodge Dakota is a solid pickup truck that's bigger than rivals like the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado . The final Dakota was built between 2005 and 2011, and later models are actually badged as Rams, not Dodges. Either way, it's the same truck. The standard 3.7-liter V6 won't win any drag races — the optional V8s offered more power, naturally — but a decent Dakota offers the ability to haul and tow for just about the lowest price point in America.

Best used truck for towing under $10,000: 2008-2012 Nissan Titan

If you need more towing power, your best bet may be an older Nissan Titan . It's likely that any full-size pickup truck you'll find for less than $10,000 will have higher miles or dents (or both), so be prepared for a truck that's not going to win any beauty contests. But as long as it can still do trucky things and runs well, that's what really matters.

Best used cars under $15,000

Best used car under $15,000: 2011-2015 chevrolet volt.

As far as we're concerned, the Chevy Volt is one of America's top used-car bargains . The first-gen model has fallen into the $10,000-$15,000 bracket, and for that sum, you're not likely to find anything more efficient — as long as it was plugged in the night before, the first 25 to 35 miles will be on electricity alone — stylish and comfortable for daily driving duties. Note that the Volt seats four passengers, not five, but does have a hatchback for greater cargo versatility.

Best used car if you don't have access to a plug: 2016-2017 Honda Civic

If you don't want to worry about plugging in and want a good, solid, reliable daily driver, the Honda Civic is our top pick. It's more fun to drive than a similar Toyota Corolla (which should also prove a very reliable choice), and the 10th-generation model that debuted for the 2016 model year is a surprisingly comfortable and roomy option. If you can find one, the hatchback that debuted in 2017 with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is our favorite.

Best used car under $15,000 that's also a sports car: Any Mazda Miata

You knew you were going to find a Mazda Miata on this list, right? The quintessential little Japanese sports car is a great used buy for those who don't need room for more then themselves and one significant other. It's a joy to drive, reasonably efficient and doesn't cost an arm and a leg to buy. Buy one and we're sure you'll love it.

Best used car under $15,000 that's both fun and mostly practical: 2014-2017 Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper used to be one of the least-reliable vehicles in America. Most of those reliability foibles were worked out over the years, and the 2014-2017 edition has proven pretty durable. The Cooper isn't as quick around a track as the aforementioned Miata, but it's awfully fun to drive around town. And unlike the Mazda, the Mini has a (small) back seat and a hatchback.

Best used SUV under $15,000: Any Mazda CX-5

SUV used to mean body-on-frame construction and a rugged four-wheel-drive system. These days, the sport utility segment covers everything from barely lifted hatchbacks to monsters that wear Hummer badges. If you're looking for an efficient, reliable and fun-to-drive crossover, the Mazda CX-5 is our top pick . If you find a Honda CR-V in a similar price bracket, that's also a solid choice for the money. The Toyota RAV4 should also be reliable, though probably not as fun to drive as the other options.

Best used SUV under $15,000 with three rows: 2000-2006 Chevrolet Tahoe

If you need a (much) larger utility vehicle, consider an older Chevy Tahoe . It should have one of GM's solid small-block V8 engines under its hood, which should equate to comparably simple maintenance and a wide selection of local mechanics who should be familiar with fixing them when something does break. Check the interior for squeaks and rattles, because GM wasn't known for screwing together the best interiors in this time frame.

Best used truck under $15,000: Any Toyota Tacoma (but check for rust)

The Toyota Tacoma is known for lots of things: reliability and durability being just two of them. High resale value is another, as well as so-so comfort. In the end, a used Tacoma is a solid choice for around $15,000, and likely to offer more years of trouble-free service than anything else in this price range. Expect to see some higher-mileage examples on the market, so be on the lookout for a Tacoma with regular maintenance records.

Best used full-size truck under $15,000: 2013 or newer Ram 1500

If you need a bigger truck, listings for the Ram 1500 would be a good place to start at the $15,000 price point. Ford and GM options enjoy higher resale value on the used market, but the Ram is just as capable and arguably more stylish and comfortable. Our suggestion is to look for a 2013 or newer Ram, and to choose the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and eight-speed automatic combo over the 4.7-liter V8 and six-speed auto. While it's tempting to opt for the V8, our own testing and that of other outlets tells us the V6 is a refined powerplant with solid durability, and the newer eight-speed transmission is a much better choice than the less reliable six-speed.

Best used cars under $20,000

Best used car under $20,000: 2016-2019 chevrolet volt.

Move up one price bracket and you can score a second-generation Chevy Volt instead of the first-gen. The bodywork got swoopier, the noise pointier, the engine downsized and the overall package got more efficient in 2016. Electric range improved from 38 in 2015 to 53 in 2016, meaning more of your miles will be on battery power instead of using more expensive gasoline.

Best used car under $20,000 if you don't want a Chevy or don't want to plug in: 2015-2018 Toyota Prius

We'd argue that the Volt is more stylish and more fun to drive than the Toyota Prius , but it's hard to argue against the hybrid's overall efficiency and expected reliability. The Prius was into its fourth generation by the 2015 model year, and the overall package was more refined than ever. Don't expect to find a plug-in Prius Prime (which debuted in 2017) in this price range, though.

Best used car under $20,000 that's more fun to drive: 2018-2021 Mazda6

The Mazda6 may have ended production in 2021 as the compact crossover took over from the midsize sedan as the vehicle design of choice for the majority of Americans, but it's still an excellent vehicle worth pursuing on the used-vehicle market. It had long been the best-driving car in its segment, its four-cylinder engine options were strong enough to have fun but efficient enough not to break the bank.

Best used electric car under $20,000: 2017-2018 BMW i3

The BMW i3 is nothing if not interesting. Its Lego-block styling isn't to everyone's liking, and even the upgraded 94ah battery the BMW EV got in 2017 won't offer the kind of capacity that makes range anxiety disappear completely, but if your daily commute is 100 miles or less, the i3 may be an interesting option. The boxy hatchback is surprisingly roomy inside, and the interior is almost Scandinavian in its design. Much of the car's structure is made from lightweight carbon fiber, which is pretty exotic for an urban runabout like the i3. Potential buyers should be aware that the German BMW will likely carry higher repair and maintenance bills than a comparable American or Japanese car.

Best used SUV under $20,000: 2017-2018 Honda CR-V

It's hard to go wrong with a Honda CR-V that's been well cared for by its previous owner. The fifth generation of Honda's compact crossover debuted for the 2017 model year with more room, more comfort, more efficiency and, importantly, more safety equipment than ever before. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is the most efficient choice, while a 2.0-liter engine is less common. The automatic is a CVT, but it's better than most competitors and not really a hindrance.

Best used SUV under $20,000 if you need three rows: 2016-2017 Mazda CX-9

Need something larger? Consider the Mazda CX-9 . Not only does it offer three rows of reasonably sized passenger space, it's also pretty fun to drive. In fact, we think it's the best-driving seven-passenger crossover on the market. It's powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and while it's not quite as powerful as some vehicles it competes with, it's plenty sufficient.

Best used pickup truck under $20,000: 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Pretty much any of the American pickup trucks of the late 20-teens will serve buyers well, but GM's mainstream truck is slightly more affordable than its competitor from Ford, which went to a lightweight aluminum body for the 2015 model year. The Toyota Tundra would also be a solid choice, but fewer were sold each year and they tend to trade at higher prices compared to the ubiquitous Detroit trucks. That's why we're pointing our digital finger at the Chevy Silverado. As the second-best-selling truck, they are very easy to find, so prospective buyers ought to have a few options to choose from. Their V8 engine options are all very solid and have well-earned reputations for durability.

Best used pickup truck under $20,000 if you want something smaller: 2009-2019 Nissan Frontier

Don't need a full-size truck? The Nissan Frontier that seemingly sold for eons is a solid pickup. It boasts a powerful V6 engine, rugged good looks and a rugged chassis to boot. We didn't have to look hard to find late-model Frontier trucks with reasonable mileage in the $20,000 range. Going back a few years should still result in a bevy of choices in various cabin sizes and with or without four-wheel drive. The 2020 edition got a new engine, but buyers in this price bracket may want to consider sticking with the tried-and-true 4.0-liter V6 of previous years. A six-speed manual was even available, a boon for buyers who prefer to shift for themselves.

Best used cars under $25,000

Best used car under $25,000: 2019-2022 mazda3.

The Mazda3 is a great car. It's offered in either sedan or our preferred hatchback form, and it has a perfect blend of driving enjoyment and practicality. There's a reasonable amount of room inside for people and cargo, but buyers who need more space may want to look for something bigger (like the Subaru we'll mention shortly). Since it's a late-model option, the 2019-2022 Mazda3 offers pretty much all the latest safety tech a buyer could wish for (but no self-driving functionality, of course), and should prove reliable for years to come.

Best used hybrid car under $25,000: 2020-2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid

If saving money at the gas pump is of prime concern, we'd suggest taking a good hard look at the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Toyota has been the undisputed king of hybrids for decades now, and all their best Prius-based tech can be had in a more normal-looking and feeling package in the form of the compact Corolla. Expect fuel mileage in the mid-to-high 40s for most Corolla Hybrid models.

Best used car under $25,000 with all-wheel drive: 2020-2022 Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy is also a solid choice for buyers looking for a nice car for less than $25,000. You may know that the hot-selling Subaru Outback is based on the Legacy, but you may not know how much more an Outback costs on the used market until you take a look at the online classifieds. In reality, though, the Legacy is fitted with standard all-wheel drive and offers just as much all-weather dependability and spaciousness as the pricier Outback, and because it's lower to the ground, it's more fuel efficient.

Best used hot hatchback under $25,000: 2015-2019 Volkswagen Golf R

You can really have some fun in the $25,000 price range. The Volkswagen Golf R is a blast  with 290 turbocharged horsepower and all-wheel drive catapulting a little German hatchback at breakneck speeds. It's the hottest version of the quintessential hot hatch, and it's a riot. You can also save some cash and get a GTI, which is also a fun choice.

Best used muscle car under $25,000: 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T

If your tastes run a little more muscular, now would be a good time to take a look over at the Dodge lineup. For $25,000, buyers can snag a lovely Challenger R/T — yes, it's got a Hemi — or if they need a bigger back seat and two more doors, a Charger. Now, we should mention that these Dodge twins are riding atop very old underpinnings and are anything but fuel efficient. But that's kinda the point. If you're more interesting in laying rubber than slicing fuel bills, the Challenger and Charger are there for you.

Best used SUV under $25,000: 2014-2019 Subaru Outback

We know. You'd really rather have an SUV than a sedan. It's a common refrain, and we get it. The added utility of a crossover and the promise of all-weather capabilities is appealing. We still think you should take a look at the most recent Subaru Legacy, but if you'd rather have an Outback, that's OK. Just know you'll have to go back a generation to snag an Outback in this list's budget price category.

Best used SUV under $25,000 that really is an SUV: 2010-2016 Toyota 4Runner

Of course, we've already explained that the Outback is basically a Subaru Legacy underneath. If what you want is a real traditional sport utility vehicle, the Toyota 4Runner is one of the best out there. It's super rugged underneath and is powered by big, burly 4.0-liter V6 engines. Five occupants fit comfortably, and some models have a mostly usable third row, too. Do be aware that the 4Runner doesn't just look like a proper SUV, it is a proper SUV. That means it rides like an SUV and guzzles fuel like and SUV.

Best used crossover that won't kill you on fuel bills: 2018-2020 Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid

A more traditional compact crossover experience can be found in the Toyota RAV4, and the 2018-2020 edition is a much nicer overall package than the models that came before. The ride is good, the handling is solid, and the powertrains offer a solid compromise between performance and efficiency. There's a lot to like in these RAV4s. If you want to reduce your fuel bill, the RAV4 Hybrid also falls into the price range we're considering.

Best used pickup truck under $25,000: 2015-2019 Ford F-150

For around $25,000, the best used pickup truck is the Ford F-150. We'd specifically look for a 2015 or later model to take advantage of the lighter weight and great capability offered by the aluminum-intensive construction Ford switched to starting that year. There are capable V6 engine options, up-level EcoBoost sixes in two sizes, and a durable 5.0-liter V8 engine to choose from. Naturally, buyers can pick between multiple cab and bed lengths, two- or four-wheel drive, and from all manner of trim levels that range from work truck-spec to full-zoot cowboy. If you're on a budget, aim for an XLT model for a solid compromise between price and equipment levels.

Best used pickup truck under $25,000 if you want something smaller: 2016-2019 Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is the best-selling midsize truck in America, and that means there are plenty to choose from. A redesign for the 2016 model year brought about welcome changes inside, out and underneath that make it a better truck than the models that came before. It's known to be a reliable machine with legitimate off-road capabilities when properly equipped, but it's not very comfortable. We'd suggest taking the Tacoma for an extended drive before signing on the dotted line, just to make sure you fit well in its low-slung cockpit and seats.

Best used pickup truck under $25,000 if you want a car-like experience: 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline

If we had to pick one smaller truck to drive every single day and didn't need to tow more than 5,000 pounds or so, we'd go with the Honda Ridgeline. Unlike the similarly sized and priced Toyota Tacoma, the Honda Ridgeline uses a unibody chassis design that shares a lot of components with the Honda Pilot crossover. It's a lot more comfortable and quite a bit more efficient than most other trucks, and it can do more work than some would-be buyers give it credit for. Well worth a look if you're a casual pickup user.

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Best used cars to buy in 2024: From trucks and SUVs to EVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds .