How many miles does a 2012 Dodge Journey last?
In general, a well-maintained 2012 Dodge Journey can be expected to reach roughly 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with some examples surpassing 250,000 miles.
Understanding longevity in the Journey
What determines how long a 2012 Journey will run includes its engine choice, maintenance history, and how it has been driven. The model year offered two engines and different drive configurations, and the way these vehicles are cared for largely shapes their ultimate mileage.
Engine options and their impact on durability
The 2012 Journey was available with two powertrains. Understanding their differences helps set expectations for longevity and maintenance needs.
2.4-liter inline-four
The 2.4L four-cylinder was the entry-level option. It is generally less powerful and was paired with a 4-speed automatic. In many owners’ reports, this engine can deliver adequate reliability with attentive maintenance, but it may show wear sooner if routinely pushed hard or not maintained.
3.6-liter Pentastar V6
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 became the more popular choice for buyers seeking stronger acceleration and towing capability. This engine is robust when properly serviced and, with regular maintenance, is associated with longer service life in many Dodge Journeys compared with the smaller inline-four.
Note: Transmission and drivetrain components also influence longevity, and issues in any major system can shorten overall life.
Real-world mileage data
Owners and reliability trackers show a range of outcomes. While the majority cluster around a certain band, there are outliers that stretch well beyond that range with diligent care.
- Most well-maintained 2012 Journeys commonly reach about 150,000 to 200,000 miles.
- Some examples surpass 250,000 miles, especially with the V6 engine and a careful maintenance schedule.
- Common trouble areas include transmission-related symptoms and electrical or cooling system issues, but results vary widely by vehicle history and upkeep.
These patterns reflect what owners report across various reliability surveys and owner communities, noting that the Journey’s long-term durability hinges on consistent servicing and addressing problems early.
Tips to maximize longevity
To push mileage higher, prioritize preventive maintenance, use quality parts, and stay ahead of potential wear items. The following practices are widely recommended by technicians and owner communities.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter changes, fluid top-offs, and cooling system service.
- Keep up with timing chain or belt-related components and replace worn parts as recommended; address any unusual noises or symptoms promptly.
- Address recalls and software updates, and perform regular inspections of the electrical system, brakes, suspension, and tires.
- Maintain a detailed service history and use trusted technicians or dealerships familiar with older Dodges to catch issues early.
Adhering to these practices does not guarantee a fixed mileage, but it significantly improves the odds of reaching higher mileages with fewer unexpected repairs.
Summary
The bottom line is that a 2012 Dodge Journey can reasonably be expected to last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles with solid maintenance, and some units, particularly those equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar, have reached 250,000 miles or more. Outcomes depend heavily on how the vehicle was maintained, driving conditions, and how promptly problems are addressed. Prospective owners should weigh engine choice, maintenance history, and overall vehicle condition when estimating longevity.
Is a 2012 Dodge Journey a reliable car?
The 2012 Dodge Journey has a mixed reliability record, often rated as average but with known issues. Common problems include electrical system failures, engine overheating due to debris in the coolant ports, and issues with the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) caused by water entering the ABS module. Some owners also report problems with the transmission and various other electrical components, though many find the vehicle reliable for its price point, with an average lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Common problems
- Electrical issues: Examples include remote keyless entry not working, problems with the body control module affecting lights and wipers, and an inaccurate temperature display.
- ABS/ESC problems: A recall exists for 2012-2015 models where water can enter the ABS module, leading to the disablement of ABS, ESC, or both, with associated warning lights.
- Engine issues: Some owners have reported overheating due to debris in the cylinder head coolant port. There is also a known issue with the left cylinder head on the 3.6L engine, for which a warranty extension was issued.
- Transmission: Some owners have reported transmission issues.
- Other common problems: A whining noise from the power steering pump, a squeaking noise from the rear suspension, and problems with cruise control have also been reported.
What to consider
- Repairs: The severity of repairs is often average, but some electrical and engine issues can be costly to fix.
- Lifespan: With proper maintenance, you can expect the vehicle to last 150,000 to 200,000 miles.
- Specific model: While the 2012 model is considered an improvement over earlier years, it still has known problems.
This video reviews a Dodge Journey with a mechanic's perspective: 1mAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Dec 31, 2021
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!
How long will a 2012 Dodge Journey last?
around 150,000 to 200,000 miles
How Long Do Dodge Journeys Last? Despite these common Dodge Journey problems, you can expect this SUV to last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles. To prolong your Dodge Journey's lifespan, follow its maintenance schedule. Clean your SUV's interior and exterior regularly, and avoid overloading it when going on long drives.
What year to stay away from Dodge Journey?
The 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2015 Dodge Journey are the worst years in terms of reliability. Avoid the 2009 Journey at all costs since it's the most problematic. These models exhibit tons of problems, mostly related to the electrical system, engine, transmission, airbags, and braking system.
