Dodge Durango Reliability: Common Problems & Most Dependable Years

Since rolling out the assembly line in 1998, the Dodge Durango has made a name for combining raw horsepower, off-road capability, and generous cargo space into a robust platform. But is the Dodge Durango a good SUV in terms of reliability?

Are Dodge Durangos Reliable?

In its 26-year production run, the Dodge Durango has gained a decent reputation for reliability. Auto review sites like JD Power, RepairPal, and Edmunds have consistently given the Durango an average to above-average reliability rating. Since its third generation, the SUV has also been noted for its rugged steel unibody construction, which it shares with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Despite its sturdy construction, the Durango has been criticized for frequent issues with its electronic systems. It has also been outpaced by its competitors, such as the Toyota Highlander (check out our reliability guide) and the Chevrolet Blazer, which have similarly robust engineering but with more advanced features and greater fuel efficiency.

What Are the Most Common Issues with the Dodge Durango?

Reviews have noted that Dodge Durango problems are infrequent and rarely lead to major repairs, but it does have its share of problems, including those that involve manufacturer recalls. Some of the more notable issues related to this particular line include the following:

Frangible Exhaust Manifold Bolts

The exhaust manifold bolts in earlier Dodge Durango model years have been known to break prematurely, resulting in a noticeable ticking noise when the engine is cold. In such cases, it is recommended that the bolts and the exhaust manifold gasket be replaced.

Affected Model Years:

• 1998
• 1999
• 2000-2009
• 2011
• 2012

Defective Shift Transfer Case Module

Several reported Dodge Durango transmission problems have occurred due to a defective electric shift transfer case module that did not fully engage into gear. This causes the transfer case to get stuck in a neutral position, causing the vehicle to roll away if the parking brake is not engaged. Dodge has issued a recall, instructing dealers to reprogram affected vehicles' transfer case control modules.

Affected Model Years:

• 2001

Malfunctioning Antilock Brake System (ABS) Module

A more recent Dodge Durango recall concerns the antilock brake system (ABS) module on selected model years. The module has been reported to illuminate the brake lights incorrectly and disable the ABS. The vehicle can also be started and shifted from Park without stepping on the brake pedal. Dodge is still developing a remedy to the issue and will mail a notice once it is available.

Affected Model Years:

• 2018
• 2019

Clogged Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Tube

In some Durango models, the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) tube has also been known to clog over time, resulting in an illuminated check engine light and an engine fault code being stored. In severe cases, the engine may start to idle roughly or stall. Cleaning the EGR tube typically fixes this problem.

Affected Model Years:

• 1999
• 2000
• 2001
• 2002
• 2004-2009
• 2012

Push-Button Start Issues

Dodge Durango push-button start problems are also prevalent. They are often due to a low key fob battery, although the push-button start module has also been known to fail over time. Changing the key fob battery or the module typically fixes the problem.

Affected Model Years:

• 2011
• 2012
• 2014
• 2017

What Are the Best Model Years for the Dodge Durango?

Owners and experts alike consider the following Dodge Durango model years to be the best of the lineup. These models are often cited for significant improvements in reliability and offer the highest resale value. These are not the Dodge Durango years to avoid.

• 2008
• 2014
• 2017
• 2020