Here Are The Dodge Durango Years To Avoid

With its growing popularity, the Dodge Durango has become one of the most popular mid-size sports utility vehicles on the market. A brief pause in 2003 followed by a return to production in 2011 marked the start of its manufacture in 1998. Considering buying this car, you might be wondering – what are the Dodge Durango years to avoid?

Here Are The Dodge Durango Years To Avoid

Discover what years to avoid when buying a Dodge Durango. For the safest driving experience, it’s best to steer clear of certain models that have been found to have many problems. You can make a better decision about your future vehicle if you know more about the Dodge Durango models.


5 Dodge Durango Years to Avoid Buying

There has never been a better year for a midsize SUV than 1999 for the Dodge Durango. Then there are the 2004 and 2000 model years, the 2005 and 2011 model years, and the 2011 model year. The complaints associated with these model years are relatively higher than those associated with other model years. It is best to avoid the worst years when it comes to reliability.

Here are the 5 worst Dodge Durango years that we have discussed in detail.

1999 Dodge Durango

It is known that the Dodge Durango 1999 model year has serious engine problems. A common complaint among users is a sudden shut down of the vehicle while driving. Despite the fact that Dodge failed to continue the legacy established by the 1998 model year, it was one of the best years ever.  A number of other major issues can also be found in the vehicle, such as transmission, electrical, suspension, brakes, air conditioning/heating, and interior accessories.

1999 Dodge Durango

In addition, there are minor issues with the windshield, the cooling system, the fuel system, the wheel, the drivetrain, the exterior accessories, the lights, and the steering system. As per the NHTSA, the suspension is the most complained about, followed by the engine, brakes, and transmission.

A total of 620 complaints have been made about problems related to the 1999 model year on CarComplaints, with 5 recalls and 3 investigations. There are a number of issues with Durango 1999 models, so it is best to stay away from them. If you’re thinking of purchasing a 1999 Durango, you’d better think twice about it.

2000 Dodge Durango

In 2000, Dodge did not learn from the failure of the previous model year, and the Durango model year was also a failure on the market. Most of the complaints about this model year are related to engine problems. There are also issues with interior accessories, air conditioning and heaters, suspension, transmission, electrical, brakes, and steering.

2000 Dodge Durango

As well as these issues, there are a few minor ones. In addition, there are problems with drivetrains, windows, wheels, cooling systems, fuel systems, body paint, light, seat belts, airbags, exterior accessories, etc. According to NHTSA, suspension is the most common complaint, followed by engine, transmission, brake, steering, interior accessories, and so forth.

In accordance with CarComplaints, there are 313 complaints about the 2000 Dodge Durango, including 4 recalls and 4 investigations. In addition to its reliability issues, the Durango 2000 also has a number of minor problems. Therefore, users should stay away from this model year.

2004 Dodge Durango

Most of the problems with the 1999-2000 Dodge Durango were resolved in the 2001-2003 model years after the failure of the 1999-2000 model years. In spite of this, these model years still do not rank among the best Durango SUVs, since better Durango SUVs are available.

2004 Dodge Durango

As with the previous model year, Dodge again failed with the 2004 model year. As well as engine problems, the 2004 Durango has other major issues such as exterior accessories, electrical problems, body/paint issues, interior accessories, and cooling system problems. The model year is plagued by several minor issues including brakes, drivetrains, steering, suspension, AC, fuel systems, lights, windshields, wheels, exhaust systems, etc.

Engine problems have been reported more frequently by NHTSA and CarComplaints than any other issue for this model year. Among the other major complaints listed by NHTSA were those related to electrical systems, seat belts, airbags, body paint, interior accessories, brakes, drivetrain, and transmission issues. In the same way that the Durango model years 1999 and 2000 had issues, the 2004 Durango also has them. To prevent buying the 2004 model year Dodge Durango, you must also avoid it at all costs.

2005 Dodge Durango

It is also a well-known fact that the engine problems with the 2005 Dodge Durango are the same as those with previous models. Apparently, Dodge Durango’s worst models have engine problems. Most complaints about this model year are related to engine problems, according to CarComplaints.

2005 Dodge Durango

Additionally, the 2005 model year had problems with the fuel system, the transmission, the interior accessories, the body, and the AC/heater. In addition to these issues, there are some minor problems with the drivetrain, the electrical system, brakes, exterior accessories, exhaust, cooling systems, wheels, airbags, seat belts, lights, steering, and suspension.

NHTSA reports the most common complaints concern fuel systems, followed by engine, electrical, drive-train, seat belts, airbags, etc. According to CarComplaints, the 2005 Durango has 268 complaints of problems, 9 recalls, and 10 investigations. It is now clear that the Durango SUV is also plagued with problems in the 2005 model year. This model year is therefore not recommended for users who prefer better models.

2011 Dodge Durango

The 2005 Dodge Durango was the turning point for manufacturers to turn back from issues. Therefore, we have got Durango models from 2007, 2008, and 2009, which are among the best in the SUV lineup. Unfortunately, the 2011 model year had a lot of problems.

2011 Dodge Durango

As reported by CarComplaints, there are 279 complaints for the 2011 model year, eight recalls, and four investigations. According to NHTSA and CarComplaints, electrical problems are the most common complaint.

Aside from engine problems, fuel system problems, AC/heater problems, interior accessory problems, and transmission problems, there are other major problems. There are some minor issues with this model year, including seat belts, airbags, brakes, windows, drive train, steering, lights, cooling system, suspension, etc.

A major issue, according to NHTSA, is an electrical problem, an engine problem, a fuel system problem, a brake problem, a drivetrain issue, and other issues. According to this report, the Durango 2011 model year is plagued with a variety of major and minor problems. It is also recommended that you avoid the 2011 model year as there are better model years to choose from.


Dodge Durango Best Years

In terms of model years, Dodge Durango’s 1998, 2007-2009, and 2016-2020 model years are the best years in terms of quality and performance. The lowest number of complaints and recalls are associated with these model years. Compared with other model years, they offer improved performance, safety, and reliability. Let’s take a look at some of the best model years:

1998 Dodge Durango

The Dodge Durango is the first model year in the lineup. Due to its excellent performance, Durango SUVs became popular. It captured the attention of consumers due to its aggressive design, large interior, powerful V8 engine, and competitive price. Quality was high enough for a first build. In spite of its inclusion on the best-year list, I would not recommend buying this car. Despite the fact that the 1998 Durango is an old SUV, it has relatively fewer problems than more recent models. The user should also take into account other options.

1998 Dodge Durango

The 1998 Dodge Durango is rated and reviewed by the following experts:

  • Edmunds Consumer Review: 3.9 out of 5.0
  • KBB Consumer Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0

2009 Dodge Durango

There is no doubt that it is one of the best model years. There are fewer complaints about the 2009 Durango in CarComplaints than any other model. A powerful V8 engine provides excellent towing and off-road capabilities. In this model year, the best features include a larger cargo space, a simple interface, and great fuel economy. The car does have several problems, including poor fuel economy in regular models, low second-row legroom, and average interior quality. My list of the best model years includes this one.

2009 Dodge Durango

The 2009 Dodge Durango has received the following reviews and ratings:

  • KBB Consumer Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0
  • Edmunds Consumer Review: 4.4 out of 5.0
  • Repairpal Reliability Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0

2016 Dodge Durango

A great year for Dodge Durango is also the 2016 model year. The best features include a spacious interior, an upgraded infotainment system, a powerful V8 engine, great towing capability, and off-road capability. There are a few drawbacks, such as being overweight, an average interior, and a poor fuel economy compared to competing vehicles. My best-year list consists largely of the good things, so they didn’t make my poorest-year list.

2016 Dodge Durango

Reviews and ratings of the 2016 Dodge Durango:

  • KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
  • Edmunds Consumer Review: 4.5 out of 5.0
  • Repairpal Reliability Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0

2019 Dodge Durango

Among the best years on this list is the Durango 2019 model year. The number of complaints about this vehicle is one of the lowest on CarComplaints. There are many great features of this model year, including large third-row seats, a large touchscreen interface that is comparable to class standards, a powerful V8 engine that can tow a lot, and off-road capabilities. There are two drawbacks to this car: a below-average fuel economy rating, as well as a larger look, compared with competitors’ compact looks. It is worth noting that these are some minor issues, and the positive aspects outweigh the negatives.

2019 Dodge Durango

The 2019 Dodge Durango has received the following reviews and ratings:

  • KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
  • Edmunds Consumer Review: 4.4 out of 5.0
  • Repairpal Reliability Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0

What Makes These Years Worth Avoiding?

In the case that you’re looking for a used Dodge Durango, there are a few factors you should consider when choosing a model. During our discussion, you will learn about some of the issues these vehicles faced during their operation.

What Makes These Years Worth Avoiding?

These years have been characterized by numerous issues, according to carcomplaints.com:

  • Engine troubles
  • Electrical problems
  • Brake issues

The Dodge Durango received many complaints, but these were the three most common.

Learn more about these three issues that are associated with Dodge Durango models above. There are a variety of factors that can influence the ownership of a vehicle. There will be a cost associated with all of these repairs, which may tip your future in a different direction.

Engine Troubles

It was the engines, particularly the 2004 model, that were the most commonly complained about on these models. A common problem with this vehicle version is engine shutdowns during driving, which can result in vehicle control issues, as well as deadly accidents.

Among the other engine problems are:

  • As a result of oil sludge, the engine fails
  • Without warning, the engine stalls
  • When it rains, the engine shakes and dies

The problems mentioned above are just a few that can affect Dodge Durango models.

It is dangerous to drive with an engine that fails or has any trouble of any kind. Additionally, engine problems may repeat over time, which makes them more expensive. Dodge Durango models that we discussed previously will cost you more in engine expenses.

Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are next on the list. It is common for these issues to cause the car to not start. There are a lot of electrical problems with the Dodge Durango models we discussed above. There is a particular problem with the 2011 models, but newer versions have been free from this problem.

Among the other electrical problems are:

  • The alternator has stopped working
  • No engine turns over or starts
  • Battery doesn’t hold a charge

It’s not appealing to anyone to own these, especially if you want a Dodge Durango model that is dependable in any weather, whether it’s freezing outside or 100 degrees outside.

You’re spending a lot of money on your car. If you want a vehicle that turns on whenever you ask it to, you should at least get one that does so whenever you request it. In order to improve the reliability of your drive, steer clear of the models listed above and choose a better-reviewed model.

Brake Issues

As a final note, we are experiencing brake problems. Almost all of the models listed above have received scattered negative brake reports, although no particular model has a major brake problem. These can be extremely expensive to fix, whether it’s an emergency failure or a boost breakage. It’s no fun to have to spend thousands of dollars to repair your brakes, especially if you have to do it repeatedly.

Several improvements have been made to the newer models of Dodge Durango to resolve the brake issue. The brakes of a car play such a vital role that you need to make sure it stops properly every time you press the pedal. With the Dodge Durango, you can stay as safe as possible on the road.


What Is the Best Dodge Durango Model

There is no doubt that the Dodge Durango’s 2020 model year is the best. With innovative safety features, heated steering wheels, heated seats, and a wide touch interface, it is equipped with the latest technology.

With the Durango 2020 model year, you’ll enjoy comfortable driving and good handling. The vehicle’s powerful V8 engine makes it ideal for towing as well as off-road use. There are also positive user reviews and good reliability ratings for the 2020 Durango.

The 2020 Dodge Durango received the following ratings:

  • KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
  • Edmunds Consumer Review: 4.6 out of 5.0
  • Repairpal Reliability Rating: 3.5 out of 5.0

Based on all the data we have collected, we can conclude that the 2020 Dodge Durango SUV is the best model year to date.


Dodge Durango Recall History

The Dodge Durango SUV has been recalled 111 times since 1998. Here are the details of the recalls:

Dodge Durango Recall YearReasons for Recall
1998Fuel tank strap repair.
1999Fuel tank strap issue.
2000Steering wheel, exterior clearance, and transmission problems.
2001Seatbelt, transfer case of the drivetrain, and child safety belt issues.
2004Air bags, vehicle speed control, and electrical problems.
2005Airbags, visibility, powertrain, and fuel system issues.
2006Electrical system, airbags, visibility, and service brakes issues.
2007Steering, powertrain, and air bag problems.
2008Airbags issues.
2009Powertrain and airbags problems.
2011Electrical system, service brakes, alternator, interior lighting, fuel pump relay, wiring, and hydraulic problems.
2012Service brakes, electrical system, alternator, interior lighting, engine and engine cooling, and hydraulic problems.
2013Hydraulic system, electrical system, service brake, interior lighting, alternator, equipment, seat, airbags, and wiring issues.
2014Service brake, hydraulic, electrical system, alternator, wiring, equipment, airbags, electronic stability control, and vehicle speed control problems.
2015Electrical system, wiring, service brake, hydraulic, suspension, and equipment issues.
2016Electrical system, fuel system, service brake, and hydraulic issues.
2017Powertrain and electrical system problems.
2018Service brake, hydraulic, powertrain, electrical system wiring issues.
2019Airbags and backover prevention system issues.
2020Airbags and back over prevention system issues.
2021Body structure, engine and engine cooling system, steering, service brakes, and airbags issues.
2022Electrical system, airbags, visibility, and service brake issues.
2023Powertrain and body structure issues.

Which Years are Safe to Buy Used?

Our discussion of the worst Dodge Durango models has already covered the safest models on the market. When you purchase a new vehicle, there are a number of things to consider.

Which Years are Safe to Buy Used?

The Dodge Durango has been the best selling vehicle in the following years, according to carcomplaints.com:

  • 2014
  • 2015
  • 2018
  • 2020

In our opinion, these four Dodge Durango models offer the most value for money.

Here are four Dodge Durango models you should consider if you are looking for the perfect version. All of them guarantee a great driving experience no matter what road you take in your day no matter how many faults they have.


Conclusion

Every driving experience can be better when you know which Dodge Durango is the safest. In order to avoid paying more for repairs than anticipated, you should never buy a car that will cost you more than you expected. You should also make sure that you are safe. You are at a lot of risk on the road when you drive a faulty vehicle, so choose one carefully.

You can take this information and choose a newer Dodge Durango that will work well for you and your life now that you know about some of the problems associated with old models. It’s best to buy one of the more recent models instead of a less reliable one. There are four excellent choices to choose from.

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