Dodge Journey Years to Avoid and The Best Years

Dodge Journey Years To Avoid – Purchase of a used Dodge Journey, it is essential to be well-informed about the model’s history and potential concerns. In this guide, we delve into the topic of “Dodge Journey Years To Avoid” to provide prospective buyers with crucial insights and recommendations.

By identifying certain model years that have exhibited recurring issues or received unfavorable feedback, we aim to assist consumers in making informed decisions about their automotive investments.

Understanding the potential drawbacks associated with specific Dodge Journey model years can help prospective buyers avoid common problems and minimize the risk of unexpected repairs or maintenance costs.

While the Dodge Journey has been a popular choice for families seeking a versatile crossover SUV, certain model years have garnered less favorable reviews due to specific issues or shortcomings.

By examining the reliability and performance records, customer feedback, and expert assessments of different Dodge Journey model years, we can offer guidance on which years may be more prone to problems and best avoided.

This knowledge empowers consumers to narrow down their options and make well-informed choices when considering a used Dodge Journey as their next vehicle.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced automobile enthusiast, our comprehensive analysis of the Dodge Journey years to avoid will equip you with valuable information to aid your purchasing decision.

Now, let us delve into the details of the Dodge Journey model years that may be best avoided, ensuring you have the necessary knowledge to make an informed choice.

Dodge Journey Years To Avoid

If you are considering purchasing a used Dodge Journey, it is important to be aware of the years that have been associated with more issues and may not offer the best ownership experience. Here are the Dodge Journey years to avoid:

2009 Dodge Journey

The 2009 Dodge Journey is one of the years to steer clear of. It has been plagued by brake problems, engine issues, and various interior accessory troubles. These problems can lead to safety concerns, costly repairs, and inconvenience for owners.

2010 Dodge Journey

Similar to the 2009 model, the 2010 Dodge Journey has been reported to have brake problems, engine issues, and interior accessory troubles. These issues can compromise the performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction of owning the vehicle.

2011 Dodge Journey

The 2011 Dodge Journey has been associated with brake problems, engine issues, and interior accessory troubles as well. These recurring problems may impact the safety, functionality, and long-term reliability of the vehicle.

2012 Dodge Journey

The 2012 Dodge Journey also exhibits brake problems, engine issues, and interior accessory troubles. These issues can cause inconvenience, potential safety hazards, and additional expenses for repairs and maintenance.

These years have garnered a higher number of complaints and have shown recurring problems in multiple areas of the vehicle. It is important to consider these issues when making a decision to purchase a used Dodge Journey.

Remember, when looking for a used vehicle, it is advisable to thoroughly inspect the specific model, consider its maintenance and repair history, and potentially consult with a trusted mechanic or automotive expert.

These steps can help you make an informed decision and select a Dodge Journey model that is more likely to provide a reliable and satisfactory ownership experience.

Best Years for Dodge Journey

While we have discussed some of the worst years of the Dodge Journey, it’s important to highlight the years that have been considered more reliable and better options for prospective buyers. Here are some of the best years to consider when purchasing a used Dodge Journey:

2015 Dodge Journey

The 2015 Dodge Journey is a viable option if you need a used SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers.

While it may not be the top contender in its segment, it offers good long-term reliability and reasonable pricing, making it a solid choice for buyers seeking a practical and dependable vehicle.

2016 Dodge Journey

The 2016 Dodge Journey improves upon the previous year and offers affordability compared to its competitors in the segment. It features an intuitive infotainment system, versatile seating and cargo options, and receives fair reliability ratings.

If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with decent reliability, the 2016 model is worth considering.

2017 Dodge Journey

The 2017 Dodge Journey stands out with its low average list price, making it an attractive choice for used car buyers. It offers a comfortable ride and a sleek infotainment system. While it may not boast exceptional reliability scores, it still provides a reasonable level of dependability for those looking for a well-priced SUV.

2018 Dodge Journey

The 2018 Dodge Journey, while potentially more reliable than the years to avoid, does not receive strongly predicted reliability scores. However, it compensates with its affordable pricing and low ownership costs, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers.

2019 Dodge Journey

The 2019 Dodge Journey offers good dependability and fuel economy. However, it’s worth noting that its build quality can be a hit or miss. If you can find a well-priced 2019 model, it can be a suitable choice, but be sure to carefully inspect its condition and negotiate a fair price.

These years have been regarded as some of the better options for the Dodge Journey based on reliability assessments and market considerations.

Dodge Journey’s Most Common Problems

The Dodge Journey, like any other vehicle, has experienced its share of common issues that owners have reported over the years. Understanding these problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions and be aware of potential areas that may require attention.

Here are some of the most commonly reported problems associated with the Dodge Journey:

1. Brake Problems

Brake problems have been a prominent issue associated with the Dodge Journey, particularly with the 2009 model. These problems can pose a significant inconvenience and potentially hazardous situations for drivers, especially at high speeds.

Some reported brake issues include premature wear of brake pads and rotors, noisy brakes, and calipers that lock up. It is crucial to have a vehicle with reliable brakes to ensure safety and avoid expensive repairs.

2. Engine Issues

Engine problems have also been reported with certain Dodge Journey models. These issues can range from the engine dying while driving, ticking sounds coming from the engine to the check engine light consistently being illuminated.

Engine problems can be costly to fix and can potentially compromise the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle.

Opting for a more reliable model can help avoid the headaches and expenses associated with engine faults.

3. Interior Accessory Troubles

Some Dodge Journey models have experienced problems with interior accessories. These issues can encompass various components, including doors, windows, and other interior features.

Dealing with frequent interior accessory failures can be frustrating for car owners and result in additional expenses for repairs.

Investing in a Dodge Journey with a stable interior can help avoid the inconvenience and costs associated with fixing these accessory problems.

4. Interior Water Leaks

Certain model years of the Dodge Journey, specifically from 2009 to 2018, have been associated with interior water leaks. Drivers have reported moisture entering the cabin, particularly during rainy conditions.

Leaks have been found near the driver’s seat floor, rear side, vents, windows, and headliners.

This can result in wet floors and carpets, potentially leading to mold or other interior damage. Seeking professional assistance to seal the leaky areas can help resolve this issue.

5. Defective Remote Keyless Entry System

The remote keyless entry system has been a commonly reported issue with the Dodge Journey, particularly in models from 2009 to 2017. Owners have experienced problems such as incorrect key readings or receiving a “key not detected” message.

In some cases, the system has interfered with the locking or unlocking of doors using the key fob.

Software updates may be required to rectify these issues and restore proper functionality to the remote keyless entry system.

These common problems are based on reports and feedback from Dodge Journey owners, and the severity and frequency of these issues may vary among individual vehicles.

When considering purchasing a Dodge Journey, conducting a thorough inspection, obtaining a vehicle history report, and consulting with a trusted mechanic are recommended to make an informed decision and mitigate potential problems.

What Cars Compare to Dodge Journey?

When considering cars that compare to the Dodge Journey, several models come to mind. Here are some vehicles that can be considered alternatives or competitors to the Dodge Journey:

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice in the midsize SUV segment, offering a spacious interior, modern features, and strong reliability ratings. It provides a comfortable ride and a range of available safety technologies.

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a versatile crossover that combines the capabilities of an SUV with the handling and efficiency of a car. It offers a spacious cabin, standard all-wheel drive, and impressive off-road capability, making it a suitable choice for adventurous individuals.

GMC Acadia

The GMC Acadia is a midsize SUV known for its upscale interior, refined ride, and advanced safety features. It offers three rows of seating and a comfortable, well-equipped cabin, making it a solid choice for families.

Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that combines off-road capability with everyday practicality. It features Jeep’s iconic styling, decent fuel efficiency, and available four-wheel drive systems, making it a suitable choice for those seeking adventure and versatility.

Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize SUV with a spacious interior, strong towing capability, and a comfortable ride. It offers seating for up to seven passengers and a range of available safety and convenience features.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a popular choice in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of comfort, space, and performance. It features a range of engine options, advanced safety technologies, and a well-appointed interior.

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers a well-designed interior, user-friendly technology, and good safety ratings. It provides comfortable seating, available third-row seating, and a range of engine options to suit different preferences.

Chevy Equinox

The Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, good fuel efficiency, and a spacious cabin. It features a range of available safety and infotainment technologies, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and family needs.

These vehicles offer varying features, performance levels, and price points. It’s recommended to test drive and compare these models to determine which one best suits your specific preferences and requirements.

Why is Dodge Journeys being discontinued?

After a decade of production, Dodge has made the decision to discontinue the Dodge Journey. The decision was primarily driven by the vehicle’s limitations and the need for substantial improvements.

Despite some incremental enhancements made over the years, the Journey struggled to keep up with evolving market demands.

Dodge has not yet disclosed any specific plans regarding a replacement for the Journey.

Are Dodge Journeys expensive to fix?

The annual maintenance cost of a Dodge Journey is estimated to be around $562. This figure includes routine maintenance, general repairs, and potential parts replacements.

It is important to note that actual repair costs can vary depending on factors such as the specific model year, mileage, and individual maintenance history.

Are Dodge Journeys good on gas?

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Dodge Journey’s gas mileage is considered average for a midsize SUV. With its larger V6 engine, the Journey achieves an estimated fuel economy of around 16 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and a combined rating of 19 mpg when equipped with all-wheel drive.

Real-world fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions, driving habits, and other factors. During testing, the Journey achieved an average of approximately 20 mpg in mostly city driving scenarios.

How reliable are Dodge Journeys?

The Dodge Journey has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, placing it 6th out of 26 in the midsize SUV category. The average annual repair cost for the Journey is around $562, indicating it has average ownership costs compared to its competitors.

The severity of repairs is typically average, and the frequency of issues is relatively low, resulting in major repairs being uncommon for the Journey.

Are Dodge engines reliable?

Dodge engines, including those used in the Journey, are generally considered reliable and can last upwards of 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. However, it is important to note that individual driving habits, maintenance practices, and environmental factors can impact engine longevity.

While Dodge engines are known for their robustness, it’s recommended to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Additionally, some Dodge engines may consume more oil compared to others, so regular oil checks and top-ups may be necessary.

Conclusion

Considering the Dodge Journey as a used vehicle option, it is important to be aware of the Dodge Journey years to avoid. Models from 2009 to 2012 have been associated with significant issues such as brake problems, engine issues, and interior accessory troubles.

These issues can lead to safety concerns, costly repairs, and overall dissatisfaction with the vehicle.

However, it is worth noting that there are also some Dodge Journey models that offer more reliability and satisfactory ownership experiences.

Years such as 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 have shown better reliability ratings and may be considered safer choices when searching for a used Dodge Journey.

Thoroughly research and inspect any used vehicle, including the Dodge Journey, before making a purchase decision. Taking into account specific model years, and maintenance records, and conducting a thorough test drive can help ensure a more positive ownership experience.

Being aware of the Dodge Journey years to avoid is vital to make an informed decision and selecting a model that offers better reliability and performance.

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