Loading

Does Dodge Journey have a CVT?

No. The Dodge Journey does not use a CVT; it relies on conventional automatic transmissions, typically a 4‑speed automatic with the 2.4‑liter engine and a 6‑speed automatic with the larger engines. CVTs were not offered on this model during its production run.


The Journey, produced from 2008 through 2019, offered a pair of gasoline engines and matched transmissions that stayed with traditional automatics rather than shifting to a continuously variable design. While other brands in the same era experimented with CVTs, Dodge kept its Journey lineup tied to more familiar automatic gearboxes.


Transmission options by engine


Below is a concise look at the primary automatic configurations that were paired with the Journey’s engines. This highlights why there is no CVT in the lineup.



  • 2.4-liter inline-4 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission

  • 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (introduced in later years)


Across its production, Dodge did not offer a CVT on the Journey, and the available automatics varied by year and engine, staying within traditional automatic designs.


Context and lifecycle


The Journey’s lifecycle spanned roughly 2008 to 2019, after which Dodge discontinued the model. In that period, Chrysler’s crossovers in this segment largely used conventional automatics rather than CVTs, a pattern that held for the Journey as well. As of today, there is no CVT variant of the Journey in production or in the model’s finished lineup.


Takeaway


In summary, there is no CVT option on the Dodge Journey. Buyers should expect traditional automatic transmissions—4-speed or 6-speed—depending on engine and model year.


Summary


The Dodge Journey did not include a CVT in any of its production years (2008–2019). It used conventional automatics, primarily a 4-speed with the 2.4L engine and a 6-speed with larger or newer engines. If you’re researching this model, plan for a traditional automatic rather than a CVT.

What Dodge vehicles have CVT transmission?


Chrysler/Dodge introduced their CVT in the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compos, and Jeep Patriot, both FWD and AWD vehicles, with the 2.0L and 2.4L engines. The CVT unit selects the best drive ratio based on torque demand and driv- ing style.



What year to avoid a Dodge Journey?


The Dodge Journey years to avoid are primarily 2009, 2010, and 2015 due to numerous complaints about reliability issues. Other problematic years include 2011 and 2012, which also had significant reports of brake, engine, and electrical system failures. 
You can watch this video to learn about common Dodge Journey problems: 56scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 28, 2022
Years to avoid

  • 2009-2010: These are frequently cited as the worst years, with high numbers of complaints about premature brake wear, electrical failures (including the TIPM), engine problems, and locking brake calipers. The 2009 model also had eight different recalls. 
  • 2015: This year is specifically mentioned as one of the worst for reliability. 
  • 2011-2012: These years are also flagged for problems, including widespread brake issues, engine trouble, and various electrical system glitches. 

Common problems across problematic years
  • Brake system: Premature wear of brake pads and rotors is a very common issue. 
  • Electrical system: Multiple electrical failures, including issues with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), sensors, gauges, and keyless entry. 
  • Engine: Problems ranging from engine power loss to overheating, often linked to coolant system blockages. 
  • Transmission: Hesitation, shifting delays, and other issues, particularly in specific models like the 2012 RT AWD. 
  • Other issues: Water leaks and problems with the air conditioning and heater system are also frequently reported. 



What transmission does the Dodge Journey have?


The Dodge Journey typically uses an automatic transmission, with the specific type depending on the engine and model year. The base 4-cylinder models have a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the more powerful V6 models came with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
 

  • 2.4L 4-cylinder engine: Equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission (models like the 62TE).
  • 3.6L V6 engine: Comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

This means you'll need to know your Journey's engine size to determine the exact transmission type.



Which car brands do not use CVT?


Hyundai: The Sonata, Ioniq, Veloster, Palisade, Santa Fe and Tucson are not equipped with CVTs. Infiniti: The QX30, QX60, Q50, Q60 and QX80 are not equipped with CVTs. Jaguar: No modern Jaguar is equipped with a CVT. Jeep: No modern Jeep is equipped with a CVT.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.