2010 dodge journey sxt reliability

2010 Dodge Journey Review

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Edmunds' Expert Review

• Minivan-style interior functionality, perfect crash-test scores, interesting entertainment and communications options, attractive pricing.
• Lackluster base four-cylinder engine, subpar interior materials, ergonomic miscues, numb and vague steering, soggy handling, poor reputation for reliability.

The 2010 Dodge Journey receives driver and front-passenger active head restraints, a larger 9-inch screen for the rear-seat entertainment system and standard keyless entry.

Edmunds says

The 2010 Dodge Journey offers minivan conveniences without the minivan stigma and pricing, but it's not refined or capable enough to earn our recommendation.

Cost to Drive Cost to drive estimates for the 2010 Dodge Journey SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.55 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Vehicle overview.

The 2010 Dodge Journey crossover SUV is effectively a replacement for Chrysler's now defunct short-wheelbase minivans -- a family-friendly vehicle that's a bit more maneuverable than the regular Grand Caravan. The Journey does indeed fill this void in functional terms, offering lots of room for larger families and a number of pleasant convenience and technology features. The question is whether buyers will find its interior quality and driving dynamics sufficient relative to the ever-improving competition. After all, a journey is hardly worth taking if you're not going to enjoy the trip.

The Journey's strength is clearly its cabin functionality, where the influence of Chrysler's minivans is unmistakable. Its optional third-row seat sets it apart from two-row crossover SUVs, providing enough room for kids. The Journey is also loaded with clever, well-conceived minivan-style conveniences, from the Flip 'n Stow storage compartment under the front passenger seat to the Chill Zone glovebox beverage cooler. Other neat options include MyGIG, Chrysler's hard-drive-based navigation and entertainment system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with a 9-inch screen. If what you're after is a versatile interior at a reasonable price, the Journey certainly delivers.

Speaking of pricing, that's another of the Journey's strengths, as the base SE model costs about the same as a bare-bones five-seat family sedan. How does Dodge do it? Simple: It skimps on interior quality and performance. The Journey's cabin materials are no nicer than those of the dismal Dodge Caliber economy car, on which the Journey is based. As for performance, the base four-cylinder engine is slow and noisy, and the V6-powered SXT and R/T models aren't particularly swift either. Moreover, all Journeys feature ponderous handling and steering that instills little confidence, even by the workaday standards of this segment.

Overall, the 2010 Dodge Journey has a split personality. On the one hand, it has interior versatility and technology to spare; on the other hand, it's built like a cheap runabout and performs like one, too. Among competing crossovers, Toyota's RAV4 offers a third-row seat along with better performance, and the surprisingly enjoyable Kia Rondo is another model to consider. The larger, three-row Ford Flex starts at about the same price as a loaded Journey, and is superior in every way. And if you don't need the Journey's optional third row, virtually any two-row crossover SUV on the market will be more pleasant to drive and own. Finally, our consumer reviews show a record of poor reliability in a number of areas. We do not recommend the Journey.

Performance & mpg

The base-model Journey SE comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Uplevel SXT and R/T trim levels employ a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 235 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. It's matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. On these trim levels, buyers have a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. In our testing, an all-wheel-drive R/T model went from zero to 60 mph in an unremarkable 9.2 seconds -- just as slow as competing four-cylinder models.

The EPA gives the four-cylinder Journey ratings of 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. The front-drive V6 drops to 16/24/19, and adding AWD yields a 15/23/18 rating. None of the above is very good relative to the competition.

Every 2010 Journey includes antilock disc brakes, traction control, rollover-sensing stability control, active front head restraints, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows. A rearview camera is optional, as are handy built-in second-row child booster seats, a first in this segment. In brake testing, a Journey R/T came to a stop in a longish 132 feet.

In crash tests, the Journey received perfect ratings in all categories. The government awarded it five starts in both front and side impacts, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Journey its highest "Good" rating for both frontal-offset and side impacts.

Despite its plebeian Caliber roots, the 2010 Dodge Journey is a well-fed specimen, with even the base SE model tipping the scales at a hefty 3,800 pounds. The four-cylinder engine is simply overmatched here -- there's not nearly enough power to merge confidently on the highway, and it sounds as strained as it feels. The V6 in the SXT and R/T models is more appropriate, returning decent acceleration and passing power, but it's still well behind the standard-setting V6 in the RAV4.

On the open road, the Journey stays quiet, but its steering is terribly numb and vague. Handling is also poor, even in the ostensibly sporty R/T model. Overall, few crossovers are as unpleasant to drive as this Dodge.

Inside, the 2010 Dodge Journey is a spacious, versatile family hauler. Families with one or two children should find more than enough room in the first two rows, and the optional 50/50-split third-row seat can serve as a sort of emergency backup for kids.The second-row seats slide fore and aft, and access to the third-row seats is a breeze. All-around comfort is reduced somewhat due to the hard and flat seats, however, and the low placement of the audio controls makes them awkward to reach for the driver -- especially with the optional touchscreen-controlled stereo. Materials quality and fit and finish are notably subpar.

In terms of utility, there's obvious influence from Chrysler's minivans, as the Journey's interior is awash in cupholders, lidded storage bins and cubbyholes, including tubs beneath the second-row floor and an ingenious compartment beneath the front passenger seat. Maximum cargo capacity is 68 cubic feet, a bit less than what's available in some competing models.

2010 Dodge Journey models

A midsize crossover SUV, the 2010 Dodge Journey comes in SE, SXT and R/T trim levels. All models come standard with two-row seating for five; with the optional 50/50-split-folding third-row bench (SXT and R/T only), capacity increases to seven.

The base SE comes with 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, full power accessories and a six-speaker stereo with a six-disc CD/MP3 changer. The midgrade SXT adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, heated side mirrors, a trip computer, enhanced interior storage, stain-resistant cloth upholstery, a six-way power driver seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 115-volt power outlet and satellite radio. The top-drawer R/T features 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls.

Dodge bundles most of the Journey's optional features into packages, and many of the upper trim levels' features are available as options for the lower trims. Other major options, depending on the trim level, include a Chrome Appearance package, sport-tuned suspension and steering, Bluetooth, an iPod adapter, tri-zone climate control, a rear-seat entertainment system and a hard-drive-based navigation and audio system with a back-up camera.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Consumer reviews, read what other owners think about the used 2010 dodge journey., trending topics in reviews.

• fuel efficiency
• spaciousness
• driving experience
• ride quality
• off-roading
• cup holders
• maintenance & parts
• reliability & manufacturing quality
• transmission
• acceleration
• wheels & tires
• sound system
• electrical system
• climate control
• infotainment system
• steering wheel
• handling & steering

Most helpful consumer reviews

Well worth a look, saved our lives in a rollover, great ride and good economy, a good economical crossover, 2010 journey highlights.

• Back-up camera
• Tire Pressure Warning
• Stability Control

NHTSA Overall Rating

• Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Overall Not Rated Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 5 / 5
• Side Crash Rating Overall Not Rated
• Side Barrier Rating Overall Not Rated Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 5 / 5
• Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings Front Seat Not Rated Back Seat Not Rated
• Rollover Rollover 4 / 5 Dynamic Test Result No Tip Risk Of Rollover Not Rated
• Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test Not Tested
• Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test Not Tested
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original Good
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated Not Tested
• Side Impact Test – Original Good
• Side Impact Test – Updated Not Tested
• Roof Strength Test Good
• Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint Good

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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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2010 Dodge Journey

# 22 out of 23 in 2010 affordable midsize suvs.

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2010 Dodge Journey Review

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U.S. News Rating

Reviewers appreciated the 2010 Dodge Journey’s above-average fuel economy, but they didn’t like much else. Although it has good safety scores, the Journey’s cramped third row, disappointing performance and cheap-feeling interior materials prevent it from being a solid contender in its class.

Versatile interior

Good safety scores

Shoddy interior quality

Uninspiring performance

Features and Specs

15-19 City / 23-25 Hwy

173 - 235 horsepower

Dodge Journey Rankings

The 2010 Dodge Journey's #22 ranking is based on its score within the 2010 Affordable Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Dodge Journey has a score of 7.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 49 pieces of research and data elements using various sources .

• # 4 in 2010 Affordable SUVs with 3 Rows
• # 22 in 2010 Affordable Midsize SUVs
• # 26 in 2010 Affordable Crossover SUVs
• # 60 in Used SUVs with 3 Rows under $15K
• # 102 in Used Crossover SUVs under $10K
• # 180 in Used Midsize SUVs under $20K
• Critics' Rating 7.9
• Performance 6.9
• Total Cost of Ownership 9.3
• Interior 7.3

Where This Vehicle Ranks

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2010 Journey Photos

2010 Dodge Journey Overview

When it was new, the Journey cost less than many competing crossovers, it had good fuel economy and reviewers appreciated its versatile interior. However, if you can do without the third row, there are a number of better choices than the 2010 Journey. Its available third row is cramped, its base engine is underpowered and its handling is disappointing.

The 2010 Dodge Journey comes with either a four-cylinder engine that most reviewers felt was underpowered, or a thirsty 3.5-liter V6. The four-cylinder models have front- or all-wheel drive, while the V6 is only available with all-wheel drive. The base Journey comes standard with a six-speaker stereo, climate-controlled glove box and power-folding mirrors. Higher trims, named SXT and R/T, add features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, three-zone climate control and an upgraded stereo system. Keep in mind that the Journey underwent a significant refresh for the 2011 model year, so you may want to take a look at the 2011 Dodge Journey while you’re shopping.

See the full 2010 Dodge Journey specs »

Other Cars to Consider

The 2010 Ford Edge is a much better overall choice than the Dodge Journey. The Edge has an interior that’s roomier and performance that’s much more satisfying. Reviewers said the base Edge isn’t that sporty, but if you upgrade to the Sport model, the Edge’s handling is much better. The Edge doesn’t offer a third row, but if you don’t need one, the Edge is the better choice.

If you like the Journey’s tidy dimensions and can live with a small third row, the 2011 Kia Sorento is a good alternative to consider. It’s fairly sporty to drive, it comes with tons of standard features and it’s well-designed inside and out. Like the Journey, the Sorento was available with two or three rows of seats, though the Sorento is just as cramped in the back.

Compare the Journey to the Edge and Sorento »

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Dodge Journey

This midsized, car-based SUV was one of Chrysler's better offerings, but it is not without its flaws. The Journey has a versatile interior with a third-row seat and lots of clever storage areas. The cabin is quiet, handling is secure, and the powertrain is refined. Interior materials were better than those of many other concurrent Chrysler products. But the ride is unsettled, agility is lacking, and fuel economy isn't great.

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In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

• 6-speed Automatic
• 4-speed Automatic
• 2.4-liter 4 (173 hp)
• 3.5-liter V6 (235 hp)

The 2011 reworking brought a much nicer interior and a better V6, but the lack of agility and still-mediocre fuel economy keep it out of the top ranks. Plus it was more expensive than many better rivals. Poor IIHS small overlap crash-test results and below average owner satisfaction add to the long list of demerits. Three row seating became standard for 2018.  Ultimately, we think you'd be better served looking at something else. The V6 engine and all-wheel drive were dropped in 2020 and the Journey finally came to an end.

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2010 Dodge Journey

Problems & complaints.

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• Complaints 1K
• Crash Tests 2
• Journey Recalls 3
• Defect Investigations 2

CarComplaints.com Notes: I hope I can stop you from buying this vehicle before you find out that it won't be able to stop you .

Worst 2010 Dodge Journey Problems by Category

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• brakes problems 181 NHTSA complaints: 180
• electrical problems 159 NHTSA complaints: 604
• interior accessories problems 37 NHTSA complaints: 31
• engine problems 36 NHTSA complaints: 210
• AC / heater problems 20
• transmission problems 17 NHTSA complaints: 3
• wheels / hubs problems 17 NHTSA complaints: 22
• steering problems 5 NHTSA complaints: 68
• exterior accessories problems 4 NHTSA complaints: 18
• lights problems 4 NHTSA complaints: 36
• fuel system problems 3 NHTSA complaints: 9
• windows / windshield problems 3 NHTSA complaints: 4
• body / paint problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 7
• seat belts / air bags problems 2 NHTSA complaints: 88
• cooling system problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 1
• drivetrain problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 46
• miscellaneous problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 106
• suspension problems 1 NHTSA complaints: 15

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Compare Dodge Journey Model Years

Curious how the 2010 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 2010 Dodge Journey Problems

#1: premature brake and rotor wear 2010 journey, #2: defective tipm 2010 journey, #3: engine won't turn over, will not start 2010 journey, search for car problems.

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Here Are The Dodge Journey Years To Avoid

Dodge Journey  by Vauxford —  CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured from 2009 to 2020. Although it’s not in production anymore, there are many excellent used models for purchase. If you’re interested in this vehicle, you might wonder - what are the Dodge Journey years to avoid?

There’s a lot to consider when investing in a new vehicle for your life. If you’re going to spend money on a car, it should be a great one that will last. Read on to learn more about which Dodge Journey years to avoid and which one to look at as a potential future investment.

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Dodge Journey Years to Avoid

The Dodge Journey has had some great models, but there are also some Dodge Journey years to avoid if you are thinking about investing in a used model. There are many reasons why you should stay away from these versions.

The Dodge Journey years to stay away from include:

These are some of the worst years in existence for the Dodge Journey.

Many factors have made these years of the Dodge Journey challenging for the average driver. We’ll dive further into these next so you can better understand the reasoning behind selecting these as the Dodge Journey years to avoid. We can help you with the decision aspect of your next vehicle investment. 

What Makes These Years Worth Avoiding?

As we mentioned, several things make these Dodge Journey years worth avoiding. There are more than three issues with these years, but we’ll go over three of the most prominent to give you a solid idea of the most common problems you’ll encounter. According to carcomplaints.com , some of the top reasons that make these years worth avoiding include:

• Brake problems 
• Engine issues
• Interior accessory troubles 
• Interior water leaks
• Malfunctioning remote keyless entry

These were not the only problems with the Dodge Journey years listed above, but they were the most apparent.

Read on to learn about each of these issues in more detail. The more you know about the potential problems you can face with the faulty models, the better a decision you can make about your next car choice. There are lots to consider when preparing to make an investment this large.

THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE DODGE JOURNEY

Although there’s a ton of information, we’ve narrowed down the critical portions for your car-hunting needs. Read on to learn more about the most reliable year Dodge Journey , the least reliable selection, and anything else you should know.

Brake Problems

Brake problems were the most prominent issue that emerged with the Dodge Journey, especially the 2009 model. This is an inconvenience and wildly dangerous for those who drive at high speeds. You don’t want a vehicle that struggles to maintain proper brakes.

Some brake problems include:

• Premature brake and rotor wear
• Noisy brakes
• Calipers that lock up

These are just a few brake problems that can emerge if you select one of the problematic Dodge Journey years.

Brakes are a critical aspect of any vehicle. If you select one of the above models and don’t maintain your brakes, you could face danger and wild expenses in the future. This issue stands out as the worst of the Dodge Journey’s faulty years.

Engine Issues

Engine issues are the second problem in the faulty Dodge Journey years. Engine problems can be expensive and even dangerous depending on where they occur. If you’re a driver, engine problems are not something you want to deal with daily.

Some of the engine problems include:

• Dying engine while driving
• Ticking sound from the engine
• Check engine light always on

It’s safe to say that none of these engine issues appeal to drivers, no matter how small they seem.

You’re paying lots of money for a used Dodge Journey, so why pick one with severe engine faults ingrained in its system? Go with a more reliable model to ensure that you stay safe on the road and save money.

Interior Accessory Troubles

Finally, interior accessory troubles are one of the final issues that plague some models of the Dodge Journey. These problems can deal with anything from the vehicle’s door to the car’s window and everything in between. 

These issues are both a nuisance to the typical car owner and an unnecessary expense. The more things break, the more it will cost to fix them. It’s vital to invest in a version of the Dodge Journey that has a stable interior so you can avoid the pain of fixing interior accessory breakages regularly.

Interior Water Leaks

Owners of the 2009-2018 Dodge Journeys have compromised their comfort of dampness inside the cabin. Apparently, the cabin is susceptible to water leaks which may occur at the low mileage of 58,000 miles.

According to the reports, the driver seat floor of the Dodge Journey may become moist whenever you’re driving in the rain. In some complaints, there are also leaks found near the rear side of the Journey, which may get your floor and carpet wet. Leaks were also reported near vents, windows, and headliners. You may need a professional to seal the leaky areas and solve this issue.

Defective Remote Keyless Entry System

There’s no shortage of neat features offered by the 2009-2017 Dodge Journeys – unfortunately, the remote keyless entry function isn’t one of them. The remote keyless entry system is one of the most reported issues with the Dodge Journey.

According to frustrated owners, the system refuses to work properly as you’ll either get wrong key readings or the dreaded “key not detected” message. In some cases, the system also interfered with the key fob that prevented drivers from locking or unlocking the doors. A software update is required to fix the issue.

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Which Years Are Safe to Buy Used?

We talked about some of the worst years of the Dodge Journey, but what about the best? It’s vital to understand your options before you go all in and put your money down on a used vehicle. We’ll go over some of the best choices for Dodge Journey years below.

According to carcomplaints.com , some of the best years for the Dodge Journey include:

• 2015 Dodge Journey - If you want a used SUV that seats up to seven passengers, the 2015 Dodge Journey is a great option. However, make no mistake, the 2015 Journey is simply an OK SUV and you’re probably better off with its competitors. However, it offers good long-term reliability along with reasonable pricing.
• 2016 Dodge Journey - The 2016 Journey is better than the previous year, and it’s more affordable than its segment competitors. It offers an intuitive infotainment system, versatile seating and cargo features, and fair reliability ratings.
• 2017 Dodge Journey - The 2017 Dodge Journey comes with a low average list price, which is great if you’re buying used. Furthermore, it provides a comfortable ride and a sleek infotainment system. In terms of reliability, it received some fair scores but nothing too impressive.
• 2018 Dodge Journey - Although the 2018 Journey may be more reliable than the models to avoid, it doesn’t have strong predicted reliability scores. Its main selling points are affordable pricing and low ownership costs.
• 2019 Dodge Journey - The 2019 Journey offers good dependability and fuel economy. Other than that, it can be a hit or miss, especially in build quality. If you can find a good price for it, then by all means. Otherwise, this model is certainly a skip.

These years have been some of the best to date with the Dodge Journey.

If you are looking for the best Dodge Journey year to buy, these make for excellent options to choose from for your future. Look into each of them a little more to determine if they’re right for you. Whichever one you select, it’s sure to be better than the faulty years listed above.

Understanding which Dodge Journey years to avoid can save you lots of trouble in the long run. Many problems come with some models, such as engine failures and transmission breakages. If you can find a version of the car that won’t leave you with expensive repairs, you should purchase it as your next vehicle.

The Dodge Journey is an excellent car, but some years have faults. We hope that this information was helpful so you can select your next car without issue. There’s a lot to consider when dealing with a used car investment, and we hope to make it a little easier for you. There are lots to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions: Dodge Journey Years To Avoid

Q: which dodge journeys should potential buyers be wary of when considering a used vehicle.

A:  If you’re in the market for a used Dodge Journey, avoid the 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 model years. These particular years have been identified as the most problematic.

Q: What are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the Dodge Journey model years to avoid?

A:  Owners of the 2009-2012 Dodge Journeys have reported a variety of problems, including brake issues such as premature wear, noisy operation, and locking calipers; engine troubles like dying while driving, ticking sounds, and persistent check engine lights; and interior accessory malfunctions.

Q: What engine problems have been reported for the problematic years of the Dodge Journey?

A:  Engine issues are another significant concern for the 2009-2012 Dodge Journeys. Owners have experienced problems such as the engine dying while driving, ticking sounds coming from the engine, and the check engine light remaining constantly illuminated.

Q: Which model years are considered safer options?

A:  If you’re in the market for a used Dodge Journey, consider the 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 model years. These years have generally received better reviews and had fewer reported problems than the earlier model years mentioned above. 

Are Dodge Journeys typically reliable?

First appearing for the 2009 model year and being discontinued after 2020, the Dodge Journey has a mixed reliability record. In particular, buyers will want to stay away from the initial model years for a more dependable ownership experience. 

How much does a used Dodge Journey typically cost?

The high demand for affordable family vehicles and tight supplies have significantly increased the cost for used Dodge Journeys. According to CoPilot Price Pulse , a 2013 Journey has a typical asking price of $10,020, which is 37% higher than what it would be in normal market conditions. A 2019 Journey costs $20,601 (including a 29% market premium). 

Is the Dodge Journey a good car to purchase?

Not every Dodge Journey model year is known for reliability. That’s something to consider before making a purchase. Research the most reliable years of the Dodge Journey before looking for what to buy. 

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