Is the Dodge brand reliable?
Overall, the Dodge brand sits in the middle of the pack for reliability. Some models have solid long-term durability, while others have earned more frequent maintenance notes. The latest Dodge vehicles show improvement in build quality and electronics, but ownership costs can still be higher for certain models, particularly performance-focused variants.
Reliability at a glance: what the trackers say
There is nuance across the brand. The reliability picture is shaped by model, age, and how the vehicle is used. Here’s how major trackers typically report Dodge reliability right now.
- Consumer Reports generally ranks Dodge models around the industry average for predicted reliability, with some entries scoring higher and others lower depending on the model and year.
- J.D. Power’s data show mixed results for recent Dodge nameplates: average-to-mixed quality scores with some models performing worse as mileage grows, especially among high-performance variants.
- Repair costs for Dodge vehicles can be higher on performance-focused or older models, reflecting parts costs and involved maintenance.
- Owner feedback often highlights reliability differences by model: Durango and some older muscle cars have more frequent reported issues, while newer Dodge crossovers benefit from updated platforms and electronics.
In sum, the reliability picture for Dodge is not uniform. Expect variation by model and generation, and consider maintenance costs when evaluating ownership prospects.
Model-by-model and era patterns
To understand what “reliable Dodge” means, it helps to separate the lineup into generations and intents: muscle/heritage models, mainstream crossovers, and newer entries. Here are general patterns observed in independent reliability reporting.
- Muscle-era Challenger/Charger models built on older platforms tend to show higher maintenance needs and more reported issues relative to non-muscle rivals in some years.
- The Durango, a three-row SUV, has had more reliability complaints across multiple model years, particularly regarding powertrain and electronics as the miles accumulate.
- Newer Dodge models (including the Hornet crossover) reflect updated engineering and modern electronics, which correlate with improved reliability in some early reports, though long-term data are still emerging.
Concluding: Dodge’s reliability story improves with newer architectures, but many buyers should remain mindful of model-specific histories and maintenance expectations. Always check model-level reliability scores and recall history for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
What to consider when buying a Dodge
If you’re shopping for a Dodge—new or used—here are practical steps to gauge reliability and reduce risk.
- Check the specific model’s reliability history and recall record, using sources such as Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA recalls.
- Inspect the powertrain and electronics thoroughly during a test drive, paying attention to transmission behavior, engine smoothness, and infotainment reliability.
- Evaluate ownership costs, including expected maintenance and repair expenses, and review warranty coverage (basic and powertrain) for your target model year.
- Consider the model’s age and mileage: older Dodge performance models may require more frequent maintenance, while newer crossovers may offer more dependable electronics and drivetrains.
- Check for open recalls and ensure any service campaigns have been completed by a dealer before purchase.
Concluding: With careful research, test driving, and verification of recalls, you can identify a Dodge with a favorable reliability profile and lower ownership risk.
Looking ahead: how Dodge is addressing reliability
Product strategy and warranty posture
Under Stellantis, Dodge is aligning more of its vehicles with shared platforms while preserving brand identity around performance. This approach aims to improve component quality, simplify parts logistics, and introduce updated electronics and connectivity. Standard warranty remains the familiar three-year/36,000-mile basic term, with a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty in the United States, providing a baseline safety net for new buyers.
Concluding: The brand’s reliability trajectory depends on how well the new platforms, electrified options, and supplier networks mature over the next several model cycles. For buyers, that means staying informed about model-specific reliability scores and warranty terms.
Summary
Is the Dodge brand reliable? The answer is nuanced. Dodge sits mid-pack overall, with dependable performance in some models and more reliability challenges in others, particularly certain older, performance-focused variants. Prospective buyers should weigh the predictability of ownership, maintenance costs, and warranty coverage, and consult current reliability data for the exact model year they’re considering. The trend suggests improving reliability as Dodge updates its platforms and technology, but real-world ownership will still depend heavily on the chosen model and how it’s cared for.
Is Dodge a good brand to buy?
Robust Long-Term Reliability
Along with style and power, Dodge cars are famed for their reliability. This means you can expect well over 100,000 miles more good driving from your used Dodge, potentially as much as 200,000 miles, depending on the car's age at the time of purchase.
Is Dodge as reliable as Toyota?
Toyota is significantly more reliable than Dodge in the long run. Toyota has a long-standing reputation for durability and fewer mechanical issues, requiring only regular maintenance. Dodge vehicles, while powerful, are more prone to problems like electronic failures, drivetrain issues, and inconsistent build quality, leading to higher repair costs and more frequent trips to the shop, as supported by owner experiences and reliability ratings.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of reliability between Toyota and Dodge models: 59sRudyCarsYouTube · Sep 9, 2024
Toyota reliability
- Lower maintenance costs: Toyota vehicles typically need only standard maintenance like oil changes, tires, and brakes, with fewer major repairs needed.
- Proven track record: The brand has a strong reputation for reliability that allows many of its vehicles to be driven for many years and miles.
- Higher quality scores: Toyota consistently receives higher ratings for quality and reliability in comparisons with other brands.
Dodge reliability
- Higher repair costs: Dodge vehicles have an average annual repair cost of \$634, which is above average, indicating higher ownership costs.
- More frequent issues: Owners often report problems with electronics, drivetrains, and other components that require more frequent and costly repairs.
- Lower reliability ratings: Dodge ranks lower than Toyota in reliability rankings, with one source ranking it 19th out of 32 car brands.
What car is ranked #1 in reliability?
Subaru Tops Reliability
Subaru has ascended to the top of our brand rankings, supplanting Lexus and Toyota, which have traded the two top spots for many years.
Are Dodge cars cheap to fix?
Dodge Maintenance Costs
Overall, Dodge ranks 19th out of 32 automakers with a 3.5 reliability rating, putting it right in the middle of the pack. This is also reflected in their annual maintenance costs, with Dodge owners paying an average of $634 compared to $652 among all cars.
