Is a Dodge Journey a reliable vehicle?
Not generally considered highly reliable among its class. Overall reliability surveys tend to rate the Journey below average, and many owners report issues with the transmission, electrical systems, and aging components as mileage increases.
For context, the Dodge Journey was produced from 2008 to 2019 and shares its platform with other Chrysler products; reliability varies by model year and maintenance history. This report examines what independent data say, common problems, model-year differences, and practical steps for buyers of used Journeys.
Reliability landscape for the Journey
Reliability ratings for the Dodge Journey come from independent sources that track owner experiences and mechanical reliability. Across its production run, the Journey generally ranked below many mainstream competitors in the mid-size crossover segment. While later model years can be more dependable with proper maintenance, the vehicle as a whole is often cited as having higher-than-average risk of maintenance and repair needs as it ages. It’s also important to note that there were recalls during its production life, so checking for open recalls on any used example is a prudent step.
Common issues reported by owners
Because reliability can vary by year and maintenance history, several issues are frequently mentioned by Journey owners in consumer surveys and owner forums. These concerns tend to recur as mileage climbs on older units:
- Transmission and shifting problems, including rough shifting, slipping, or uneven performance on some early 4-speed and later configurations.
- Electrical gremlins, such as dashboard warning lights, sensor glitches, power window failures, and battery or alternator-related drainage.
- Engine-related concerns, including rough idle or misfires in high-mileage examples, and fuel economy that may lag expectations for the class.
- Suspension and steering wear, with components like bushings and ball joints showing wear as the vehicle ages, affecting ride quality and handling.
- Rust and corrosion in certain environments, particularly around wheel arches and underbody areas on older or poorly maintained examples.
Overall, reliability issues tend to be more pronounced in higher-mileage or poorly maintained Journeys. A thorough pre-purchase inspection can reduce the risk of surprise repairs.
Pre-purchase reliability considerations and buyer tips
Before deciding on a used Dodge Journey, use these reliability-focused checks to gauge condition and potential future maintenance needs. The goal is to identify red flags that could translate into costly repairs later.
- Check maintenance history for routine service and major component work (oil changes, transmission service if applicable, brake service, timing chain/belt if relevant to the year, and cooling system maintenance).
- Review the vehicle’s recall history with the VIN and verify that all recalls have been completed at an authorized dealership.
- Get a thorough pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic experienced with Chrysler products and mid-2010s-era crossovers, focusing on the transmission, engine mounts, electrical system, and rust.
- Inspect for rust or corrosion in common trouble spots (wheel arches, underbody, floor pans), especially if the vehicle spent time in areas with heavy road salt.
- Test drive to assess transmission behavior, acceleration, braking performance, steering response, and any unusual noises or warning light activity.
- Use an OBD-II scan to check for stored trouble codes, particularly related to the transmission, engine, and electrical systems, even if the check engine light is off.
- Consider total ownership costs, including potential repair expenses and parts availability for a now-older model, and compare with similarly priced rivals with stronger reliability records.
Following this checklist helps differentiate higher-risk examples from better-maintained ones. Maintenance history is a strong predictor of reliability in aging vehicles like the Journey.
Summary
The Dodge Journey can be a practical and affordable option for families, especially if found at a competitive price with solid maintenance records. However, its reliability profile is generally lower than many peers in the segment, and potential buyers should be prepared for a higher likelihood of maintenance and repair as the vehicle ages. If long-term dependability is a priority, consider researching competing crossovers with stronger reliability histories and robust owner satisfaction scores. Always verify recalls, review maintenance history, and conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate risk.
For further context, consult reliability data from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, and compare the Journey’s long-term ownership costs against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Santa Fe. Recalls and safety campaigns should be verified via NHTSA or the manufacturer before purchasing.
