How long will a 2014 Dodge Journey last?
Most 2014 Dodge Journeys will reach about 150,000 miles with proper care, and some examples push past 200,000 miles.
What determines how long a 2014 Dodge Journey lasts
The lifespan of a 2014 Journey depends on a mix of maintenance habits, driving conditions, and how well problems are addressed when they arise. The following factors are most influential.
- Maintenance discipline, including timely oil changes, fluid top-ups, and part replacements
- Driving environment and usage patterns (highway commuting vs. stop‑and‑go city driving)
- Repair history and quality of parts used in service
- Vehicle mileage and age, which increase the likelihood of component wear
- Recalls or service campaigns completed and any safety-related upgrades
Keeping up with routine service and addressing issues promptly are the biggest levers for extending life, while neglect or harsh use can shorten it.
Engine and drivetrain durability
The 2014 Journey offered two main powertrains: a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 3.6-liter V6, typically paired with automatic transmissions. Both engines rely on timing chains rather than timing belts, which can reduce certain maintenance tasks but still require attention to wear items and cooling system health.
Two powertrains and their maintenance outlook
In general, regular oil changes with the recommended grade, periodic transmission service (where applicable), and cooling system maintenance are key to preserving drivetrain longevity for either engine. Spark plug replacement intervals and fuel system cleanliness also influence long-term reliability.
Common issues that can affect longevity
While many Journeys perform reliably, some owners report issues that, if left unaddressed, can affect life expectancy. Being aware of these potential problems helps you plan preventive care.
- Transmission or driveline concerns in some older Journeys, particularly as mileage climbs
- Electrical and infotainment glitches that can arise with age
- Brake wear and suspension component aging with high mileage
- Oil consumption or leaks in certain engines, depending on maintenance history
Variability is high; checking service history and having a trusted mechanic inspect a used example—especially for higher-mileage models—can reveal how much life remains.
Maintenance practices that maximize life
Proactive, consistent maintenance is the most effective way to extend the Journey’s life. The following actions are widely recommended by technicians and owner communities.
- Follow the vehicle’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions
- Use the recommended fluids and quality parts, and replace them on schedule
- Monitor and service the cooling system (coolant flushes, hose inspections) to prevent overheating
- Keep timing chains or belts, and inspect tensioners and guides if equipped, per manual guidance
- Inspect and replace brake pads, rotors, and suspension components as needed to avoid further damage
- Address warning lights promptly with a professional diagnosis to catch problems early
Adhering to these practices can significantly influence whether a 2014 Journey reaches longer milestone years and miles.
What owners say and typical mileages
Owner experiences vary, but consumer data and user forums often point to a broad range. Some Journeys reach well into the 180,000–200,000 mile range with careful maintenance, while others require major repairs sooner. Overall reliability ratings for this model year tend to reflect average to below-average performance in long-term durability compared with segment leaders.
- Typical successful mileage with solid maintenance: around 150,000–200,000 miles
- Some examples exceed 200,000 miles with meticulous care
- Higher maintenance costs and more frequent repairs can affect total ownership experience
Individual results depend on history, maintenance quality, and driving conditions. A pre-purchase inspection is especially valuable for higher-mileage examples.
Bottom line: planning for longevity
The 2014 Dodge Journey can be a durable family SUV when properly maintained. Expect a practical lifespan in the order of 150,000 miles, with many cars reaching 180,000–200,000 miles or more under attentive care. Prospective buyers and owners should prioritize documented service history, address any looming issues early, and follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations to maximize longevity.
Summary
In short, a 2014 Dodge Journey has the potential to last many years and miles with diligent upkeep. While it won’t match the longest-lasting rivals in every metric, a well-maintained example can commonly reach 150,000 miles and, with ongoing care, approach or surpass 200,000 miles. The key factors are consistent maintenance, timely repairs, and mindful driving conditions, reinforced by a careful pre-purchase inspection for any used unit.
What year to stay away from 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.
Can a Dodge Journey last 300,000 miles?
With proper care, a well-maintained Journey can last between 240,000 to 320,000 km (150,000 to 200,000 miles), or even more!
Is the 2014 Dodge Journey reliable?
The 2014 Dodge Journey has an average to slightly above-average reliability, with sources giving it a 3 to 4 out of 5 rating. Common issues include transmission problems, electrical problems (like keyless entry failures and stalling), and potential engine issues like overheating. While many owners report it can be dependable and last over 100,000 miles with proper maintenance, there are frequent complaints about its reliability.
Reliability ratings
- Overall: Average, with ratings from 3 to 4 out of 5 from various sources.
- J.D. Power: Gave it an average "Quality & Reliability" score of 79/100.
Common problems
- Transmission: Frequent issues reported, including jerky or stiff shifting and loud noises.
- Electrical: Problems with the keyless entry system, random stalling, and random button/light failures are common complaints.
- Engine: Some owners have reported issues like the check engine light coming on and acceleration problems.
- Brakes: Complaints about the brake system have also been reported.
Factors affecting reliability
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to help the vehicle reach its potential lifespan of over 100,000 miles.
- Model year: While the 2014 is generally considered to have average reliability, some older models are seen as less reliable.
- Trim: Reliability can also vary based on the specific trim and features of the vehicle.
How long do Dodge Journey engines last?
A properly maintained Dodge Journey engine can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, or more. However, some owners have reported engine issues like overheating or shutting down after reaching the 100,000-mile mark, and reliability can vary between model years. To prolong engine life, regular maintenance is crucial, and addressing problems promptly is recommended.
Factors influencing engine life
- Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is the most important factor for engine longevity.
- Model year: Reliability can vary between model years, with some suggesting that later models, such as 2018, 2019, and 2020, may be more reliable.
- Common problems: Some owners have reported issues like engine overheating, especially due to debris in the cylinder head coolant port, and the engine shutting down after a certain mileage.
- Repairs: While the Dodge Journey has an average annual repair cost and a generally average severity and frequency for major repairs according to RepairPal, it's wise to consider potential repair costs as part of long-term ownership.
How to maximize engine life
- Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals.
- Address issues promptly: Get the vehicle checked by a mechanic as soon as any problems arise.
- Drive responsibly: Avoid overloading the vehicle during long drives.
- Keep it clean: Regularly clean the interior and exterior to prevent future issues.
