dodge journey 2009 recalls

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The VIN can be found on the VIN plate located on the driver's side of the dashboard just below the windshield (1). The VIN can also be found on the driver-side doorframe label (2), as well as on documents related to the vehicle's registration, title and insurance.

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2009 DODGE JOURNEY RECALLS

5 doors off-road vehicle produced by Dodge from 2008 to 2011 with diesel and petrol engines with maxspeed 113 mph. Capacity is 7 passengers including driver and total weight is 5467 lbs with 1290 lbs maxload.

Model Trims

• Journey 2.0 TD (140 Hp) SXT Automatic
• Journey 2.4 i 16V (170 Hp)
• Journey 2.7 (185 Hp)
• Journey 2.0 TD (140 Hp) SXT

Features & Specs

16-28 mpg city 31-44 mpg hwy

FWD drivetrain

140-185 horsepower

Reported Problems

9 Total Safety Recalls Found

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS

Total cars affected: 8569

NHTSA campaign: 16V273000

Date of the problem: 06/05/2016

A loss of power steering assist may require extra steering effort, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Total cars affected: 722705

NHTSA campaign: 14V373000

Date of the problem: 26/06/2014

If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

Total cars affected: 712

NHTSA campaign: 08V528000

Date of the problem: 09/10/2008

THIS CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Total cars affected: 110482

NHTSA campaign: 16V047000

Date of the problem: 29/01/2016

If the air bag control unit fails, the air bags may not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of occupant injury. Additionally, the air bags may inadvertently deploy, increasing the risk of a crash.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Total cars affected: 64934

NHTSA campaign: 10V658000

Date of the problem: 24/12/2010

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SIDE AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY, REDUCING THE PROTECTION INTENDED FOR THE OCCUPANT AND INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.

Total cars affected: 6692

NHTSA campaign: 08V247000

Date of the problem: 03/06/2008

DAMAGE TO THE WIRING HARNESS COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Total cars affected: 16852

NHTSA campaign: 09V082000

Date of the problem: 12/03/2009

IF THE FUSE FOR THIS CIRCUIT DOES NOT BLOW, THE CONNECTOR COULD OVERHEAT AND POTENTIALLY CATCH FIRE.

Total cars affected: 4314

NHTSA campaign: 09V118000

Date of the problem: 09/04/2009

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT PROPERLY INFLATE AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT AN OCCUPANT, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.

EU rapid alert system

Risk level: 1

Rapex alert: A12/1112/16

Date of the problem: 16/09/2016

Corrosion in the control unit of the vehicle occupant protection system may lead to the front seat airbags not deploying correctly.

Other Years

2009 Dodge Journey Recalls

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2009 Dodge Journey trims (5)

(SE) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(SXT) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(SXT) 4dr All-Wheel Drive

(R/T) 4dr Front-Wheel Drive

(R/T) 4dr All-Wheel Drive

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2009 Dodge Journey

Problems & complaints.

• Compare Journey Years
• Complaints 3K
• Crash Tests 2
• Journey Recalls 8
• Defect Investigations 3

CarComplaints.com Notes: A prime example of why you should never buy the first model year of a new vehicle.

Worst 2009 Dodge Journey Problems by Category

Click on a category below for details. help.

• brakes problems 407 NHTSA complaints: 355
• electrical problems 218 NHTSA complaints: 765
• engine problems 62 NHTSA complaints: 203
• interior accessories problems 55 NHTSA complaints: 23
• wheels / hubs problems 39 NHTSA complaints: 85
• windows / windshield problems 33 NHTSA complaints: 14
• transmission problems 31 NHTSA complaints: 17
• AC / heater problems 21
• body / paint problems 21 NHTSA complaints: 21
• suspension problems 20 NHTSA complaints: 21
• drivetrain problems 13 NHTSA complaints: 89
• cooling system problems 12
• steering problems 10 NHTSA complaints: 68
• exterior accessories problems 8 NHTSA complaints: 28
• seat belts / air bags problems 7 NHTSA complaints: 279
• exhaust system problems 5 NHTSA complaints: 1
• fuel system problems 4 NHTSA complaints: 11
• lights problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 12
• miscellaneous problems NHTSA: 82

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Compare Dodge Journey Model Years

Curious how the 2009 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 2009 Dodge Journey Problems

#1: premature brake and rotor wear 2009 journey, #2: won't turn over, engine won't start 2009 journey, #3: transmission failure 2009 journey, search for car problems.

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Dodge Journey Recalled to Fix Reflectors

The amber reflectors don’t meet federal safety standards

Dodge is recalling over 83,000 Journey SUVs from the 2017 and 2018 model years to replace front side reflectors that don’t meet federal safety standards.

The amber indicator reflectors that are part of the Journey’s headlight assembly do not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 108, which determines how much light a reflector should shine back. As a result, other drivers may have trouble seeing the Journey at night. 

The automaker first became aware of the problem in 2018 after an audit by Canadian regulators. The results showed that the reflectors did not reflect enough light to meet U.S. safety standards. Dodge petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2019, arguing that the defect was inconsequential and did not require a recall, but NHTSA denied the petition in September. As a result, the vehicles are being recalled.

Dodge is currently working on a fix for the problem, and says there have been no crashes or injuries as a result of the recall.

Learn more about car recalls at CR’s guide to recalls .

The Details

Vehicles recalled: Dodge Journey SUVs manufactured between Aug. 2, 2017, and July 6, 2018.

The problem: The amber reflectors in the Journey’s headlight assembly do not reflect back enough light to meet federal safety standards.

The fix: Dodge says it is still working on a fix for the problem.

How to contact the manufacturer: Dodge will contact owners of affected vehicles by mail starting Nov. 8, 2022. Owners may also contact Dodge at 800-853-1403.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V723. Dodge’s own number for this recall is Z99.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry .

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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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Recall Alert: 2009-20016 Dodge Journey

By Jennifer Geiger

Vehicles Affected: Approximately 11,000 model-year 2009-16 Dodge Journey SUVs equipped with optional block heaters

The Problem: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles reports that an investigation found some power-steering fluid lines could leak at engine startup, when the vehicle is subject to extreme cold. Drivers will not lose steering control, but the amount of effort required to steer may increase. FCA said it is unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this problem.

The Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the affected parts for free.

What Owners Should Do: FCA has not yet released an owner notification schedule. Owners can call the automaker at 800-853-1403, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov for more info.

Need to Find a Dealer for Service? Go to Cars.com Service & Repair to find your local dealer.

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Moscow Muled

Why do moscow mules come in copper mugs.

Oct 18, 2019

Have you ever wondered why the Moscow Mule cocktail is served in a copper mug? In this post, we answer that question in detail. As it turns out, the answer is partly based on historical events and partly based on the extra "kick" that copper brings to this classic cocktail. Let's dive in!

Introduction

A remarkable cocktail is something you notice from across the room, easily identified by the signature drinking vessel it's served in. Few are more distinct than the burnished copper mug of a Moscow Mule. 

Great cocktails aren't just alcohol and mixers––they should be something more, a full sensory experience from beginning to end. It starts as you observe the precise convergence of ingredients in a golden ratio that blossoms into flavors and aromas of citrus and spicy ginger. It is then delivered into an ice-filled copper mug and garnished with fresh mint and a slice of lime.  Finally, it is presented before you, shiny and cold, compelling you to taste.

The copper mule mug not only tells the story of the drink it contains, but also is essentially functional to the full experience. You might already know that the cone-shaped bowl of a long-stemmed Martini glass was designed so that olives would stand perfectly upright, and the elegantly curvaceous welled Margarita glass was designed to add ample salt, sugar and garnishes.

But why are Moscow Mules served in copper mugs?

Inquiring minds want to know, so this article will sum up the science and history of why traditional Moscow Mules come in copper mugs, and other legit benefits of serving cocktails in pure copper mugs. This includes:

A Brief History of the Moscow Mule

The science of using copper mugs.

• How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste & Aroma of your Moscow Mule
• The Enhanced Experience of Drinking from a Pure Copper Mug

The origin of this timeless cocktail is the tale of the American Dream. One fateful day in 1941 , three struggling entrepreneurs had a serendipitous meeting at the Cock 'N Bull bar on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood: A bar owner passionate about his unpopular home-brewed ginger beer, a businessman who took a big chance and purchased Smirnoff vodka, and a Russian immigrant with a cache of copper mugs she couldn't seem to sell. That day, the unlikely trio wisely decided to join forces in a bold venture that would not only save their individual businesses, but also create an iconic American cocktail.

Essentially, the Moscow Mule is the most successful marketing campaign in cocktail history. At a time when most Americans had never even heard of vodka, this cocktail introduced them to the traditional Russian alcohol, and established Smirnoff as a necessity in both bars and homes alike.

Thanks to celebrity endorsement, the Moscow Mule soon took the Hollywood cocktail scene by storm, and quickly became the most beloved mixed drink of the 1950's.

It's popularity understandably waned during the Cold War, and it was briefly re-branded as the Smirnoff Mule to distance itself from communism. However, the recent cocktail renaissance of the 21st century has seen the Moscow Mule come kicking back, as evidenced by lists like Esquire's Top 10 Cocktails of 2019 , and Business Insider's 8th Best-selling Cocktail in the World, 2018 .

But the answer to why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs goes much further than a conveniently clever alliance between co-founders desperate for a big break. The story of the Moscow Mule is both the struggle of the immigrant searching for success, and the flashy lifestyle of the rich and famous.

It boasts a simple recipe , yet a complex flavor profile, encapsulated in a shiny copper mug. And as delicious and refreshing as the Moscow Mule may be, it's the copper mug that makes the cocktail so extraordinary.  Like the drink itself, the pure copper mule mug is a balance of form and functionality.

The most scientific benefit of the copper mug is its ability to regulate temperature. When a drink is served in a copper mug, it gets cold fast––and stays that way.

Copper is a renowned thermal conductor that will keep your beverage frosty in any weather, and is one of the reasons the traditional Moscow Mule has become synonymous with summer. Add a little ice, and the copper chills drinks instantly, and sustains a refreshingly icy rim with every sip.

Because copper is such an excellent conductor, it can keep your cold beverages colder for longer. The downfall of many ill-fated cocktails on a hot summer day is melting ice. Copper mugs stay brisk, and don't disrupt the recipe's ratio, so the simple yet distinct flavors of the Moscow Mule remain strong till the last drop.

Another important feature of the solid copper Moscow Mule mug is the handle. Much like the stem of a wine glass, the copper mug handle keeps the nearly 100 degree body temperature of your hand from impacting the status of your deliciously frosty cocktail.

How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste and Aroma of Your Moscow Mule

If you want to know what a Moscow Mule tastes like, purists would insist the only way to experience it is in a 100% copper mug. Aside from being a great American tradition, copper mugs offer some unique enhancements to both the flavor and aroma of the Moscow Mule (or almost any finely-crafted cocktail).

Although subjective, most discerning drinkers would agree that copper mugs imbue cocktails with a superior taste. Experts explain that the copper oxidizes the vodka upon contact, thus enhancing the flavor profile and potency of the aromatics.

The intense cold of the copper also creates more stability in the bubbles of the ginger beer carbonation, and balances the tangy citrus of the lime with the earthy spice of the ginger.

For the skeptics out there, the theory of superior taste is easily verifiable. Simply make or order two Moscow Mules––one served in a plastic cup, and one served in a copper mug. Take a moment to inhale deeply, enjoy a big sip, and let your senses be the judge.

The epiphany should take a matter of moments, and you soon realize why a Moscow Mule is best served in a copper mug, and why any other cup or glass is vastly inferior. The difference can be so vivid, you might even consider drinking all your favorite beverages from copper mugs, even hot tea and coffee!

The Enhanced Experience of Drinking From a Pure Copper Mug

Throwing back shots with reckless disregard is a great way to get hammered, but a terrible way to enjoy something delicious. People order cocktails for the full package––observing its creation, revelling in its presentation, and slowly savoring its captivating story and unique taste.

Not only is a cocktail a well-balanced combination of spirits and mixers, it's also about the aesthetic and function of the vessel it's served in. A cocktail should be an object of inspired beauty, presented thoughtfully in a suitable glass or mug and garnished appropriately. It should take time, because it's made by hand.

Although the copper mug has become the symbol of Moscow Mules, it can also pair exquisitely with many other cocktails. Many people seem drawn to the shine and nostalgia of the metal, and Mixologists seem impressed by the scientific properties of the copper mug. Other drinks prominently featured in copper mugs include Dark 'n Stormy, Mescal, Gin & Tonic, and Cuba Libre.

No matter how frosted a beer glass gets, nothing can keep a mixed drink colder than a copper mug. The sensation when one's lips touch the ice-cold rim with every sip is part of the unique experience.

The flavors are heightened, the aromas amplified, and the balance of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer is never watered-down by melting ice. Provided your Moscow Mule is served in a pure copper mug, the last sip should be just as robust and enjoyable as the first.

The benefits of drinking from copper mugs aren't a newfound discovery. In fact, copper has been the preferred metal for drinking vessels for thousands of years.

Gurus in India have been using copper mugs for hundreds of years, and copper goblets called Escra have been found in ancient Irish ruins. Even American settles in 1645 drank exclusively from a massive tankard made of pure copper, known today as the Virginia Tankard .

The Moscow Mule is a classic drink served in a magnificent copper mug because it tells a compelling story, and enhances your consumption experience. It is an unforgettable drink because it's served in a mug that is both more beautiful than and functionally superior to glass.

Three Reasons Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs

The reason your Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug is not a fluke. It is not because it's the latest trendy hipster craze. It's not just a marketing ploy (although it definitely started out as one), nor is it a conspiracy by the lobbyists for Big Copper.

Moscow Mules come in copper mugs for three reasons: taste, temperature, and presentation.

The unique experience of drinking a Moscow Mule is a balanced combination of these three elements. It's also the reason this drink is not only the most recognizable, but also consistently one of the most popular drinks in global cocktail culture history.

Taste: The natural properties of the copper oxidize the alcohol, resulting in powerful aromatics and superior flavors. The bubbles of the ginger beer stay fizzy, and perfectly counter the acidity of the fresh lime juice. It's spicy yet refreshing. Simply put, it's delicious!

Temperature: Copper is an ideal thermal conductor, instantly chilling your beverage upon creation, and maintaining a consistently arctic temperature. This prevents the ice from quickly melting and dulling the cocktail ratio, while keeping the rim refreshingly frosty with every sip. The handle also keeps your hot little fingers from fluctuating the temperature with every touch.

Presentation: A glinting copper mug looks authentic and catches the eye. It is vintage, yet modern, and tells a story of creativity, charm and resilience. It is instantly recognizable, and makes for a fine looking beverage. Yes please!

The Bottom Line

The copper mug is iconic, a great American tradition of nearly 80 years, and is the only proper way to drink a Moscow Mule. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  How to Clean and Care for Copper Mugs: The Definitive Guide and  Why You Should Only Use Moscow Mule Copper Mugs With Stainless Steel Lining

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Slumping Bourses Recall 2008

Against the backdrop of a global equity sell-off and dropping oil prices, Russian markets panicked for a second consecutive day Friday plunging to a 2011 record low at speeds reminiscent of the 2008 crisis.

The benchmark MICEX closed down 4.48 percent Friday at 1327.19, adding momentum to a decline of 7.82 percent the previous day. The dollar-denominated RTS fell 5.18 percent, closing at 1315.95. Thursday had seen RTS dive 8.61 percent, its biggest drop since February 2009.

Moscow's bourses have retreated in the last week by 16 percent and 12 percent, respectively, leaving most stocks hovering around levels not seen since mid-2010.

"It's desperate selling," said Alexander Zakharov, head of international sales at Finam. "No one wants to catch the falling knife."

Analysts predicted that Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's announcement that he would stand for the presidency Saturday would have little immediate effect on current stock trends.

The equity tailspin in recent days has mirrored what occurred in early August as fears about political dithering in Washington, the U.S. credit rating downgrade by Standard and Poor's and a burgeoning sovereign debt crisis in Europe took hold.

"I do not expect any market reaction to the news [of Putin's candidacy] — investors are more concerned about global events and the weakening oil price," Troika Dialog's chief strategist Chris Weafer wrote in a note.

Thursday's dive on bourses around the world was precipitated by a warning from the Federal Reserve about the U.S. economy and pessimistic comments from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

"Since the beginning of August, the talk of the town has been that we're heading for the next recession," Finam's Zakharov said.

Oil prices have headed downward in recent days alongside speculation that the much-anticipated double-dip recession for the global economy might be around the corner.

Urals crude — the benchmark for Russian oil — declined to $106.68 a barrel Friday, its lowest level since Aug. 19 and its seventh consecutive day fall. It has dropped a total of 9.3 percent over the course of last week.

The markets in Russia — which is reliant on the energy industry for 14 percent of its gross domestic product — have long been closely linked to the oil price.

"If we have a slowdown in either the U.S. or European economies, it will have a direct impact — oil prices coming down will be very, very bad for Russia," said James Cook, founder of the Aurora Russia investment fund.

Russia is traditionally hit hard in a sell-off because investors view it as more risky — oil dependence being one of the reasons — than other emerging markets. Russia has been the leading country for capital outflows for the third week running, according to a VTB Capital research note.

European and U.S. markets pared earlier losses late Friday, taking some comfort from a G20 statement that its policymakers were committed to a robust response to the economic turmoil. In London, the FTSE 100 closed up 0.5 percent.

Analysts said a Russian rebound was possible going into next week, but that it would be nothing more than a rebound and the general trend was downward.

The ruble extended its weeklong decline Friday, closing against the dollar at 32.05 and against the euro at 43.35. It dropped 9 kopeks against the euro-dollar basket, putting its weekly slide at 3.8 percent.

Aurora's Cook singled out the European financial situation as a primary cause. Countries such as Greece and Spain are grappling with potential default, and there were reports on Friday that the European Union was seeking to speed up the process of recapitalizing smaller banks.

"The situation in Europe is breeding more and more uncertainty in the market," he said. "Whenever investors have uncertainty it creates more and more volatility."

Investors are looking for reassurance from politicians, many of whom were gathered last week and over the weekend in the United States for meetings of the United Nations, IMF and World Bank.

Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin said late Friday in Washington that Russia was acutely aware of its vulnerability to global market shocks, and that the world was facing up to a decade of lost growth, Bloomberg reported.

Deputy Economic Development Minister Stanislav Voskresensky said Russia was more "mentally prepared" to deal with a global economic crisis than in 2008.

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