Are Dodge Journeys reliable vehicles?
In brief, Dodge Journeys are generally considered average-to-below-average in reliability, with some model years more prone to issues. A well-documented maintenance history is essential for used buyers looking to avoid surprise repairs.
What the Dodge Journey is and why reliability matters
The Dodge Journey is a midsize crossover SUV that Dodge sold from roughly 2009 through 2019. It was marketed as a versatile family vehicle with available seating for five or seven passengers and a practical cargo footprint. Over its lifecycle, the Journey shared platforms and components with other Chrysler products, and it was offered with a range of engines, including a 2.4-liter inline-four and a V6, with occasional updates to powertrains and features. Reliability has been mixed, and owner sentiment tends to reflect average-to-below-average performance in the segment, especially for older examples with higher mileage.
Reliability landscape across model years
Reliability varies notably by year and powertrain. Early and aging Journeys tend to show more maintenance needs, particularly related to transmissions and electrical systems. Some mid-cycle updates improved performance and quieted certain complaints, but the overall consensus from independent reviewers and owner surveys remains that the Journey sits in the average-to-below-average tier for reliability when compared with mainstream rivals in its class. Because production ended in 2019, most buyers look at used examples, where history and maintenance become the biggest reliability determinants.
What tends to break or wear as miles accumulate
The following issues are among the most frequently reported by Journey owners and reviewers. They aren’t guaranteed to appear on every vehicle, but they shape the typical reliability profile of the model.
- Transmission concerns, including rough shifting or failure in older models
- Electrical and power accessory failures (window regulators, door locks, sensors)
- Cooling and HVAC system problems (water pump, radiator leaks, A/C components)
- Engine performance issues (misfires, stalling, reduced power) in some units
- Brake and suspension wear on higher-mileage examples
In short, these reliability concerns are common in aging Journeys and can be costly to repair if neglected.
Buying a used Journey: tips and checks
When evaluating a used Journey, the goal is to verify maintenance, avoid lingering recalls, and detect issues that can become expensive repairs. The following checks help separate well-maintained examples from ones likely to require significant work.
- Check the vehicle history for recalls, campaigns, and maintenance records; ask for service receipts that show transmission and cooling system work
- Have the transmission inspected for smooth shifts, slipping, or unusual noises, especially in first and second gears
- Inspect the cooling system components (belts, water pump, radiator) and look for coolant leaks or overheating incidents
- Test electrical features (power windows, door locks, climate control, dashboard lights) for proper operation
- Check for rust or frame-related issues in older units and inspect the exhaust and suspension for unusual wear
Bottom line: A Journey with complete maintenance records, up-to-date recalls addressed, and timely repairs is more likely to offer dependable service than one with gaps in service history or significant, unresolved problems.
Safety considerations and ownership costs
Safety features on the Journey varied by trim, with standard items such as multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control typically included, and optional items like rearview cameras or more advanced safety tech appearing on higher trims or later years. Insurance costs, fuel economy, and maintenance expenses tend to be higher for aging crossover platforms, and Journeys with higher mileage can incur substantial repair costs, particularly for the transmission and cooling system.
How this compares to rivals
In the broader market, well-regarded compact and midsize crossovers from Japanese and American brands often post stronger reliability scores and lower long-term ownership costs. The Journey’s versatility and seating options remain appealing, but prospective buyers should weigh reliability risk against features, price, and usage needs when comparing against compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Summary
The Dodge Journey offers practical space and flexible seating, but its reliability is typically rated as average-to-below-average for its class, especially in older, higher-mileage examples. For used buyers, thorough maintenance history, confirmed recalls, and a careful pre-purchase inspection are essential. If reliability is the primary criterion, many buyers consider alternatives with stronger long-term track records; if you value space and affordability and find a well-documented Journey, it can still serve as a reasonable family Hauler with prudent maintenance.
In the end, the Journey remains a niche choice in the used market: not the most dependable, but not without potential value for buyers who do their homework and are prepared for possible repair costs as mileage climbs.
