dodge journey car problems

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Best and worst Dodge Journey years — which to avoid

We explored the best and worst dodge journey years, pinpointing the models with the most issues and collecting honest opinions from owners, all to offer you an insightful overview of its historical reliability..

Before the discontinuation, the Dodge Journey was one of the best mid-size SUVs produced for a dozen generations, and Dodge didn’t give up on it due to reliability issues. However, that doesn’t mean you can just go ahead and buy any model as some model years have received quite a few complaints.

Don’t go searching through the market just yet, since our team decided to give you all the important details in one guide. We’ve scanned the NHTSA records on common complaints and recalls to give you a complete picture of best years to buy and worst Dodge Journey years to avoid . On top of that, we’ve gone an extra step as we reached out to real Journey owners for their accounts and experiences, so stay tuned for the details.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology .

How we rated the best and worst Dodge Journey years

During our evaluation of the Dodge Journey as a model, we’ve gone through the reports on various model years based on several sources. First, we relied on trustworthy organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and we went through their records including details on recalls and common driver complaints.

After that, we’ve done some more digging on Dodge Journey recalls through reliable platforms like Cars.com, as well as sources of authority like Edmunds and Kelly Blue Book. As mentioned, we wanted to give you honest Dodge Journey reviews and we could only do that by citing some forums with real experiences of previous drivers and Journey owners.

Most common Dodge Journey problems

The Dodge Journey might be a safe and reliable vehicle. However, it is not exempt from faults and flaws. Among the Dodge Journey most common problems you could run upon are brake problems, defective remote keyless entry systems, interior water leaks, or even damaged head gaskets, so we’ll discuss each of those in more detail.

1. Overheating engine

Engine issues are a common issue in faulty Dodge Journey model years. For the Dodge Journey, these problems happened in the 2009-2016 model years, causing overheating once they hit the 78,000-mile mark. This problem is likely caused by coolant flow challenges due to debris locking the cylinder head coolant port at its primary thermostat housing.

At first, the vehicle’s temperature light may turn on, but this worsens over time. Some Journey owners complained that their vehicles experienced engine power loss , leading to overheating. The vehicle may also develop coolant leaks, which become excessive for its overflow reservoir, causing coolant fluid to spill over.

These engine problems are usually expensive and dangerous, depending on where they happen. For a driver, you don’t want to encounter engine issues every day.

2. Brake problems

Brake issues were the most common troubles that plagued the Dodge Journey, especially its 2009-2010 model years. The brakes on these models wear out prematurely , which happens to relatively new Journey vehicles at about 30,000 miles. Some drivers mentioned that this issue has become severe, requiring them to replace their brakes every three months.

The abovementioned issues are among the few brake-related problems you could face if you purchase a problematic Dodge Journey model year. These issues are inconvenient and dangerous, especially for driving at high speeds. You want to avoid a vehicle that struggles with maintaining proper brakes. 

3. Defective remote keyless entry system

The Dodge Journey has many cool features, and the remote keyless system is supposed to be one of them. Instead, the keyless system is another Dodge Journey feature that has become problematic for drivers.

Many frustrated owners complain that the system doesn’t work correctly as it gives off either wrong key readings or the annoying “key not detected” message. The system sometimes interferes with the key fob, preventing drivers from locking or unlocking the doors. To fix this issue, owners may need to do a software update.

4. Interior water leaks

Some owners of the 2009-2018 Dodge Journey models have expressed discomfort caused by dampness inside the cabin. The cabin appears vulnerable to water leaks , typically at a low mileage of about 50,000 to 60,000 miles. According to complaints from owners, the driver’s seat floor of the Dodge Journey may become wet when they travel in the rain.

Other drivers complained that they noticed leaks near the side of the Journey, causing wet floors and carpets. Additionally, some drivers reported leaks near windows, headliners, and vents, and you may need a professional to fix the leaks and resolve the issue.

5. Damaged head gasket

This is another notorious Dodge Journey issue among vehicle owners. Drivers note that this problem commonly happens at about 100,000 miles. It might begin with performance issues and graduate to engine failure over time. This may be due to cracked or damaged head gaskets.

Some drivers have reported having leaky or blown head gaskets , causing severe damage to the engine. Experts recommend a compression test to verify if your Journey has faulty head gaskets. If they are defective, you may replace them yourself if you are a DIYer or have a professional do the job.

Worst Dodge Journey years to avoid

The Dodge Journey has had several great models; however, there are also some model years you should avoid if you intend to purchase a Dodge Journey. Below is a list of Journey model years to avoid:

Naturally, our team will get you through all these model years and their issues so you can have an easier time picking the most reliable Journey model.

First-generation Journey (2009-2012 model years)

The 2009 Dodge Journey was the first model of this generation, and it was associated with numerous problems and complaints from drivers. Its prevalent issue was with the brakes, and many drivers complained of frequent brake replacements within a short timeframe. These drivers point out that the vehicle is too heavy for the brake pads and rotors.

Other drivers reported that regardless of how gentle you are with the vehicle, it doesn’t stop the brakes from wearing out at 30,000 miles or earlier. Additionally, the braking power isn’t sufficient for the size of the vehicle and can lead to disastrous accidents in the worst cases.

Another issue of the 2009 model year was with its transmission, which caused rough gear shifting . Some drivers complained that shifting the vehicle out of the first gear was difficult, especially during cold weather. Also, several drivers report that their transmission fails at around 60,000 miles, causing them to abandon the vehicle.

The 2009 and 2010 models were also plagued by electrical faults that prevented the engine from turning over, which may be caused by the neutral safety switch losing communication with the shifter. Most drivers had to put their vehicles in neutral to get the engine to start up. Some drivers also complained that they experience these issues on other components like the horn, windows, radios, etc.

2011 Dodge model year also had issues with the brakes, but unlike the 2009-2010 models, which had brakes that required premature replacements , the 2011 model had brakes that made grinding and squealing sounds. In addition to the noises, drivers complain that their 2011 Journey shakes the steering wheel while braking.

Best Dodge Journey years

The Dodge Journey has several years, which drivers have confirmed to be reliable while offering remarkable performance. So, are you still wondering what are the best Dodge Journey years to buy? The best Dodge Journey years are 2005, 2017, and 2020. Still, there’s a full list of best-rated models:

These Dodge Journey models are some of the best years to date and provide excellent performance. If you are searching for the best Journey years to buy, these years are great choices, and they would give little to no problems without any cause for expensive repairs.

2005 Dodge Journey

Based on all the available NHTSA records and reliability reports, the 2005 Dodge Journey is the best model to date. It only received a few complaints including some engine cooling difficulties, but none of those reports were sufficient to place the model on a list of problematic years.

With a clean reliability record , the model scored a decent overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on reliable automotive agencies.

2017 Dodge Journey

As for the later model years, the 2017 Dodge Journey made it to the list as one of the most reliable options. It received model-specific concerns with some of the main complaints being related to A/C heater faults and electrical malfunctions.

2020 Dodge Journey

Finally, we can’t leave out the 2020 Journey model which also proved to be pretty reliable with just under 10 reliability concerns. Among those, drivers have mostly reported problems with seat belts and brakes, while the model received an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Cars.com and similar sources.

Is the Dodge Journey worth buying?

The Dodge Journey is an excellent SUV with remarkable performance. However, it doesn’t have a reasonable edge over its rivals, as consumers complain that the vehicle is made from cheap interior materials and lacks a host of safety features that can be found in most competitors.

If you’re eyeing versatile SUVs check out Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid , Nissan Xterra years to avoid , or Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid . While these vehicles are known for their ruggedness and capability, it’s vital to consider that not all model years have lived up to expectations.

What is the most common problem with the Dodge Journey?

The remote keyless entry system is Dodge Journey’s most reported issue. According to drivers, the system gives off the wrong readings or the u0022key not detectedu0022 message.

Is a Dodge Journey a reliable car?

The Dodge Journey is reliable as long as you keep away from its worst model years.

How many miles can you expect from a Dodge Journey?

The Dodge Journey can last up to 200,00 miles under ideal maintenance conditions.

Should I buy a Dodge Journey?

Yes, you can buy a Dodge Journey; however, you want to avoid buying its worst years. Also, it would be best if you considered its interior before making a purchase. 

Filip is a lifelong car enthusiast with over 3 years of experience writing about cars and had worked as a mechanic apprentice for over 5 years, gaining hands-on expertise in automotive mechanics. At REREV, he combines his passion for cars with his comprehensive knowledge to provide readers with a unique blend of technical insight and engaging storytelling that sets the bar high for automotive content.

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Dodge Journey Problems: 8 Common Issues (Explained)

The most common problems and possible solutions are listed below.

Table of Contents

Remote Keyless Entry System Works Intermittently

If your remote keyless entry system starts acting weird and only working sometimes, you might get frustrated.

It’s a huge inconvenience not to have technology work the way you expect it to. But, there’s an easy fix for the problem.

Probable Causes and Solutions

The most common reason your Dodge Journey remote keyless entry system may begin working intermittently is because there is a problem with the component’s software .

Usually, updating the software will correct the problem.

If you upgrade the software and continue to have problems with the remote keyless ignition system, you should visit a Dodge dealership and have the problem diagnosed.

If the problem isn’t related to a software update, it could be an issue with the keyfob itself. If the keyfob has gone bad, it might be necessary to replace the keyfob.

A Dodge-certified technician can also upgrade the software for you.

Unexplained Dampness Inside a Dodge Journey

If you enter your vehicle and notice unexplained dampness, it could create an uncomfortable ride and be upsetting. Afterall, water isn’t supposed to leak inside a vehicle.

But unexplained dampness inside the vehicle of the Journey is a common problem, and is easily fixed.

Most often, especially in models 2009 to 2018, unexplained dampness in the interior of the Journey is from a water leak .

Improperly sealed body seams can let water into the vehicle and create dampness.

If this is the reason your Journey is getting wet inside, the problem can be fixed by having the seals replaced and properly installed.

Engine Overheating Due to Coolant Flow Problem

If your Dodge Journey was made between 2009 and 2018, you may have issues with your engine overheating. It seems the problem can occur at anytime during the Journey’s existence.

Vehicles with as low as 20,000 miles have experienced this issue as well as Journeys with well over 100,000 miles too.

Usually, it needs diagnosed by a Dodge mechanic. But, there are easy solutions to prevent this problem from happening again.

If you have debris in your engine, it could cause a coolant flow issue.

If there’s a disruption in your coolant flow, the engine could overheat.

If not corrected, an engine overheating could cause serious damage to the engine. When debris blocks the cylinder head at the coolant port of the thermostat housing, the right amount of coolant won’t reach the engine.

Removing the debris from the engine and especially around this port fixes the problem.

Check Engine Light with Diagnostic Code P0339

If your check engine light comes on, it’s a good idea to have a diagnostic test to determine what the cause of the warning is.

If you get a P0339 code, there is probably a problem with the vehicle’s crankshaft position sensor.

This issue is most common with 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2016 Dodge Journeys. Also, check our list of typical reasons the check engine light appears .

The crankshaft position sensor check engine light code will cause intermittent loss of power to this component.

To correct this problem, a technician may be able to add a shim to the crankshaft sensor .

If this does not correct the problem, it might be necessary to replace the sensor and flex plate.

Inaccurate Speed Settings and/or Excessive RPMs

If you notice your Journey is revving high or showing that you’re driving excessively, you might have a problem with the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM).

This is even more likely if you notice the problem when using cruise control.

Thankfully, inaccurate speed settings and unusually high RPMs can be related to an issue with the Journey’s software.

In most cases, updating the software for the powertrain control module (PCM) will correct the problem.

Updating the software can be done at a Dodge dealership.

Dodge Journey Seats Showing Signs of Corrosion

Dodge Journey 2009, 2010, and 2013 Journeys may show signs of wear, specifically around the seat frames.

If you notice rust around the vehicle’s seat frames, it’s important not to ignore the problem.

Instead, you should take the vehicle to a Dodge dealership to have corrosion inhibitor in the affected areas. There are also revised covers for the second row available to help prevent the issue from progressing.

Rough Idle after Cold Start on Dodge Journey with V6 Engines

2009 and 2010 Dodge Journey drivers have reported rough idling after a cold start .

The problem usually only occurs with Journeys equipped with a V6 engine.

Sometimes when this happens, a check engine light will come on. Diagnostic testing will show code P050D.

If your vehicle is showing a P050D diagnostic code, the rough idling after a cold start could be due to a problem with the powertrain control module (PCM).

After a mechanic diagnoses the problem, they can tell you whether a software upgrade will correct the issue, or if a replacement part is needed.

Dodge Journey is Stuck in Park

There’s nothing more frustrating then getting in your vehicle and realizing it won’t start. If your Journey is stuck in park, you will need to see a technician to have the problem corrected.

Dodge is aware of this problem and has issued a recall to correct the issue.

A Journey shifter getting stuck in park is likely due to the material used to create the shifter .

Making an appointment at a Dodge dealership will give technicians the opportunity to replace the parts and ensure you’re vehicle shifts every time you need it too.

Dodge Journey Brakes Wearing Out Prematurely

Some people go through brake pads faster than others, but if you drive a Dodge Journey, it might not be your fault. When the car manufacturer created the 2009 and 2010 Journeys, they did so with the best SUV technology and developed a crossover vehicle that was pleasurable to drive.

But they added brakes that were more suitable to a sedan.

The sedan brakes created a need for new brakes at just about 12,000 miles.

Dodge drivers filed a class-action lawsuit that extended the warranty of the vehicle’s brakes by three years.

If you notice your brakes have worn out quickly on your Journey, it’s a good idea to have them checked out.

Of course, it’s also important to have the parts replaced as needed to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.

General Pros and Cons of the Dodge Journey

• Third-row seating
• Easy to drive
• Handles well
• Lots of storage compartments
• Optional V6 engine available
• Attractive styling
• Comfortable interior
• Problems with electronics
• Water leaks
• Rough idling
• Vehicle gets stuck in park
• RPMs revving too high
• Early corrosion on components
• Brakes wearing out prematurely

Go back : problems for all Dodge models here .

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.

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Reliability

Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system.

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Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire that is sent to subscribers. In the questionnaire, we ask subscribers to note any problems with their cars that occurred in the past 12 months. They are asked to identify problems that they considered serious (because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime).

A typical model has about 200 to 400 samples for each model year. For some model years, typically those of older or less popular cars, we do not have a large enough sample size to provide results of statistical confidence.

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2009-2020 Dodge Journey: pros and cons, common problems

• Stylish look.
• Roomy practical nicely done interior (2011+).
• Good handling, comfortable ride.
• Storage and cargo space.
• Available third-row seating.
• Strong optional V6.
• Doesn't hold its value well.
• Electrical, wiring problems, higher than average repair costs.
• Interior plastic could be better.
• Lack of cargo space behind the third seat.

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Common Dodge Journey Problems: 1st Generation (2009 to 2020)

Common 1st gen Dodge Journey problems include no heat and issues with the throttle body. Learn the common problems on the 1st generation of the Dodge Journey, years 2009 to 2020, and their symptoms, causes, and fixes.

Top 5 Issues with the 1st Gen Dodge Journey (2009 to 2020)

1. heater core problems, symptoms of heater core problems.

• No heat when the heat is turned on
• Heat temperature is lower than normal

Causes of a Bad Heater Core

The heater core can clog on the 1st gen Journey from sediment in the coolant.

How to Fix a Bad Heater Core

As a temporary fix you can flush out the heater core by disconnecting the coolant hoses that lead into the firewall and connect to the heater core.

Replacing the heater core includes removing the dash, the steering wheel, and electronics like the radio. The A/C evaporative core is also part of the heater box, so the A/C system will need to be recovered and recharged.

2. Throttle Body Problems

Symptoms of throttle body problems on the 2009 to 2020 dodge journey.

• High RPMs at idle
• Rough running engine at idle
• Check engine light for code P2112 or P2110

How to Fix Throttle Body Problems

Cleaning the throttle body will not fix these problems on the 2009 to 2020 Dodge Journey. The problem is an issue with the internal sensors and motor, so the throttle body will need to be replaced.

3. Key Fob Failure

Symptoms of a bad key fob.

• Vehicle won’t start
• Door locks don’t work

How to Fix a Key Fob

If there is another remote, see if it works. If it doesn’t, replacing the key fob battery usually fixes this issue.

4. Thermostat Failure

Symptoms of a bad thermostat.

• Check engine light for code P0652

How to Fix a Bad Thermostat

To replace the thermostat, the thermostat needs to be replaced with the housing as one piece. Since a bad heater core can also cause the symptom of no heat, if the temperature gauge is not in its usual position, the thermostat likely has an issue.

5. Wiper Relay

Symptoms of wiper problems.

• Wiper speeds not working
• Windshield wipers not working

Causes of Windshield Wiper Problems

Windshield wiper problems on the 1st gen Dodge Journey tend to stem from issues with the wiper relay. If the wipers won’t turn on, it could be the motor relay, and if the wipers have issues with the settings, it could be the wiper speed relay.

How to Fix Wiper Problems

Remove the fuse box cover from the fuses in the engine bay.

Since the relays are the same part number, they could be swapped, so if the wipers are not turning on, try swapping them to see if it’s causing the issue.

If there is an issue with the wipers’ speed, the wiper speed relay will need to be swapped with a new relay to test it.

1st Generation Dodge Journey Model Years

• 2009 Dodge Journey
• 2010 Dodge Journey
• 2011 Dodge Journey
• 2012 Dodge Journey
• 2013 Dodge Journey
• 2014 Dodge Journey
• 2015 Dodge Journey
• 2016 Dodge Journey
• 2017 Dodge Journey
• 2018 Dodge Journey
• 2019 Dodge Journey
• 2020 Dodge Journey

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We Buy All Cars, Running or Not!

Dodge journey problems through the years – 2020 is looking pretty good.

• July 14, 2020

Despite Dodge being a reliable and high-quality car company, they have churned out some poor cars over the years. One of those cars is the Dodge Journey. With numerous issues, especially in the 2009 model year, we cannot recommend this car to any potential car buyer. 

Not to mention, there are key issues with Dodge cars that are prevalent in many models. This includes key issues like a complicated gear shifter that can cause the car to roll, a low mileage engine blow-out, fragile dashboards that can crack over time, rust on the bottom of their car or truck, and a wobbling front end. These are just some of the issues that are common amongst the Dodge Journey problems. 

2009 Dodge Journey Problems

The main categories of user complaints with this model deal with the brakes, with 406 complaints, electrical problems, with 215 issues, and the engine problems, comprising 62 user complaints.

The NHTSA had a whopping 739 complaints regarding the electrical system with the 2009 Dodge Journey, while they still had an astronomical 350 complaints for the brakes, and 271 complaints for the seat belts and airbags system in the Dodge Journey. 

User Brake Dodge Journey Problems

The main brake issues with this model of car for the 2009 year refers to premature brake and rotor wear, noisy brakes, calipers locking while using, brakes failing, brake pedal continuing to depressed after being stepped on, bracket hardware missing, ABS lights staying on, brake brackets snapping, and the brakes getting stuck. 

The most prevalent issue by far was the premature brake and rotor wear , with the overall repair cost being around $400, occurring at just below 32,000 miles, and having a total of 353 complaints. The most common solutions are to replace the pads and rotors, all brakes and rotors being replaced, replacing the machined rotors, and replacing the brakes. 

The average cost of replacing brake pads comes in at $150 per axle, but can range from between $100 to $300 per axle, which could come out to be an average of around $600 for the total change. The average cost of replacing the brake rotors is between $406 and $559, with the labor costs being between $158 and $200, while the parts are between $248 and $350. The total cost of replacing the entire brakes is very expensive, coming in at over $650 on the high end, including the brake pads, rotors, and calipers.

Users have reported on this problem with the Dodge Journey that the brakes have needed to be replaced multiple times in just a short time span, the braking system is insufficient for the size of the car, and the car being too heavy for the pads and rotors, making them wear down prematurely.

User Electrical Dodge Journey Problems

The main areas of concern within the electrical system for the Dodge Journey problems of this year revolve around the car not being able to turn over, the engine not starting, multiple electrical failures, a faulty TIPM, premature battery failure, electrical system shutting down while driving, ignition recall, wireless ignition node module, and the power door locks malfunctioning after use. 

Regarding the car not being able to turn over , the average typical repair cost for this issue has cost users around $620 and occurs at just over an average of 60,000 miles. The most common solution is to replace key fobs and replace the starter motor in the Dodge Journey. Users have reported that sometimes the car starts and sometimes it doesn’t, the neutral safety switch losing communication with the shifter, and the horn going off unintentionally.

User Engine Dodge Journey Problems

The main issues of the engine of the Dodge Journey for users include the engine dying while driving, the check engine light coming on , the ticking sound coming from the engine, not starting after the engine has been running, and the engine burning up oil without a warning light. The Dodge Journey problem of the engine dying while driving occurs at around 44,000 miles, with users stating that the car just cuts off during use, the RPMs skyrocket for no reason, the power steering cuts off, the brakes cease working, and the car begins making a huge clunking noise from the engine. 

Dodge Journey Recalls

As you can see, this model is not the most reliable or reputable in terms of buyer confidence and safety. In addition, there have been 8 recalls for this 2009 Dodge Journey – showing how this is an unsafe and unreliable car. 

The first recall was in June of 2008 and affected nearly 7,000 vehicles, dealing with the engine wiring harness. Damage to the wiring harness could cause an increase in the chance of an engine compartment fire, affecting vehicles with the 3.5-liter engine since the wiring harness could unintentionally contact the left transaxle mount.

Next, the following recall was the same year in October, and affected only less than 800 vehicles. This referred to the powertrain control module and the fuel pump relay, causing the engine to stall and crash without any warning. The Dodge Caliber, Avenger, Journey, Patriot, and Compass were all recalled due to the new adhesive used in the powertrain control module being a cause for the circuit board to break. 

The third recall of the Dodge Journey in 2009 referred to the electrical connector, and was announced in March of 2009. This affected nearly 17,000 vehicles and was due to the fuse for the electrical circuit not lighting properly, then the connector could overheat and catch fire. The Dodge Journey vehicles equipped without the optional 115 volt auxiliary power outlet could become corroded and short circuit over time.

Furthermore, the fourth recall for the 2009 Dodge Journey problems included the reverse wiring steering column driver air bag . In the event of a crash, the driver’s airbag might not inflate to the right amount and might not be able to properly protect the driver, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash. This was announced in April of 2009 and affected just over 4,000 vehicles.

The fifth recall for the 2009 Dodge Journey was about the front door wiring. In the event of a crash, the side airbag might not deploy, reducing the protection that is needed to keep the passengers and the driver safe during the event of an impact. The wiring within the front door wire harness might tire out and damage over time, causing an interruption in the circuits for the side impact sensors. This can result in an airbag warning lamp illumination and a loss of the sensing capabilities on the sides of the car. Announced in late 2010, this recall affected nearly 65,000 vehicles. 

This sixth recall affected a whopping 722,000 vehicles, causing a huge recall for many Dodge Journey owners. This referred to the ignition switch maybe turning off during use. If the ignition key moves to the off or the accessory position, then the engine will turn off, but the turn will depower the safety system within the car, including the airbags, power steering, and the power braking. The loss of the functionality of all of these systems, or even just one of these systems, can increase risk of the crash. Thek ye fob should be removed from the keyring in order to prove this issue.

The next recall for this model of the Dodge Journey refers to the airbag control unit power supply corroding over time. If the airbag control unit fails, this can cause the airbag to not deploy and protect the passengers and drive the event of a crash. This can increase the risk of occupant injury. In addition, the air bags might deploy when you do not want them to, meaning the risk of a crash can occur since you are hit with an airbag. This is a huge Dodge journey problem that needs to be addressed.

The eight and final recall of the 2009 Dodge Journey refers to the power steering return hose rupturing over time, affecting nearly 9,000vehicles. A loss of power steering assist might require an extra effort while turning the wheel, especially at lower speeds, and can increase the chance of a crash. 

2010 Dodge Journey Problems

The main categories that have issues for the 2010 Dodge Journey refer to the brakes problems, electrical system, and the interior accessories. The most complaints for the NHTSA refer to the engine, the brakes, and the electrical system, with over 500 complaints regarding the electrical system of the 2010 Dodge Journey. 

The main issues with the engine of the 2010 Dodge Journey involve the engine not being able to turn over, a defective TIPM, the horn blowing unintentionally, the battery dying, and the car shutting down while driving. The engine not turning over generally costs around $550 and occurs at around 65,000 miles.

The Dodge Journey Today

From the years of 2011-2020, the Dodge Journey has had much fewer problems than the year of inception in 2009 and the subsequent year in 2010. From 2016-2020, there have been just 58 total complaints, in comparison to 962 in just 2009 alone. The last year of user complaints was in 2018, with just 3 complaints about the transmission, and the engine causing the NHTSA to file 18 complaints. 

Over the years, you can see how the Dodge Journey problems have significantly decreased. From the years of 2011-2020, there have been minimal complaints in regard to the Dodge Journey when in comparisoi to the previous two years. Potential car owners should solely look at the most recent years if they are interested in buying this car, and avoid the 2009 and 2010 model yaers at all costs so you can stay safe and sound!

Summary of Dodge Journey Problems

We know that the Dodge Journey is so unreliable and not a safe car. So let’s look at the overall worst complaints about the Dodge Journey. Journey owners are having the most trouble and the most complaints with the brakes, coming in at 36%, electrical system, coming in at 21%, and the interior accessories issues, coming in at 7% of the total Dodge Journey problems. 

The most common complaint involves the brakes. This refers to the premature brake and rotor wear, with over 479 complaints at an average of 50,000 miles in the 2009 Dodge Journey. The second most common complaint for all years of the Journey include the engine not starting and not being able to turn over. With 155 complaints at an average of 60,000 miles, this is a huge Dodge Journey problem. The last issue for the Journey involves the premature brake wear, with 25 complaints at an average of just below 30,000 miles, this generally occurs the most in the 2012 Dodge Journey. 

The Journey received a reliability rating of just 3 out of 5 stars, and have a total of 1855 complaints across all years. The Pain Rank on Dodge Problems.com shows that it ranks 53rd , when this website ranked 60 Dodge generations by reliability. 

Nearly every model group of Dodge cars can be organized into generations, which is just a collection of years where the cars are continuously made. This refers to the Dodge Journey, which has been produced over many model years. 

Car US News

In addition to the ranking by the DodgeProblems.com website, there are also other reliability ratings on other websites. On US News, this website ranked the Dodge Journey as having a terrible reliability rating, coming in at just 2 out of 5 according to JD Power. This is the lowest rating in the JD Power awards that you can possibly get. 

One of the other Dodge Journey problems is that there is a lack of confidence amongst companies and users in the market. This can cause a lack of trust within the company, and cause users to not want to buy this Journey car. 

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2015 Dodge Journey

Problems & complaints.

• Compare Journey Years
• Complaints 829
• Crash Tests 2
• Journey Recalls 6

Worst 2015 Dodge Journey Problems by Category

Click on a category below for details. help.

• engine problems 14 NHTSA complaints: 149
• electrical problems 10 NHTSA complaints: 103
• transmission problems 10
• interior accessories problems 9 NHTSA complaints: 80
• brakes problems 8 NHTSA complaints: 144
• seat belts / air bags problems 4 NHTSA complaints: 65
• suspension problems 4 NHTSA complaints: 5
• fuel system problems 3 NHTSA complaints: 16
• body / paint problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 11
• exhaust system problems 2
• steering problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 31
• wheels / hubs problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 8
• exterior accessories problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 4
• windows / windshield problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 2
• miscellaneous problems NHTSA: 67
• drivetrain problems NHTSA: 66
• lights problems NHTSA: 5

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Compare Dodge Journey Model Years

Curious how the 2015 Journey compares to other years? Check out our Dodge Journey overview to see the most problematic years, worst problems and most recently reported complaints with the Journey.

Worst 2015 Dodge Journey Problems

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