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Is the Dodge Journey comfortable?

The Dodge Journey is generally comfortable enough for everyday use, but it doesn’t stand out in its class for long-haul comfort. Production ended after the 2019 model year, so today’s examples are used vehicles, and comfort can vary by trim and wear.

This article examines how ride quality, seating, interior materials, and cabin noise affect overall comfort, and it compares the Journey with rivals in the affordable three-row crossover segment.

Ride and seating comfort

Details about how the Journey feels behind the wheel and in the seats help explain daily usability and long-trip potential.

Front seats are generally supportive for daily driving, but some drivers report fatigue on very long trips, especially in lower trims with firmer cushions.

The third row is best viewed as a compact option for children or shorter trips; accommodating adults for extended periods tends to be cramped.

Ride quality can be mix throughout the range: the base suspension on older models is firmer and can feel unsettled on rough pavement, while higher trims or later updates offer smoother character but still aren’t class-leading in isolation.

Overall, the Journey delivers practical seating and a reasonably composed ride for its price point, but it isn’t a standout in ride refinement or long-haul comfort compared with newer rivals.

Interior quality and practicality

How the cabin materials, layout, and cargo versatility influence everyday comfort is important for families and frequent travelers.

Interior materials are durable but not premium; hard plastics and straightforward controls reflect an older design ethos common to early-2010s crossovers.

Three-row seating provides flexible configurations, which is useful for families needing extra passenger space or cargo room when rows are folded flat.

Infotainment and climate controls are functional but may feel dated next to more modern systems; cabin noise levels can be noticeable at highway speeds, impacting perceived comfort.

In practice, the Journey offers a practical, no-frills interior that’s easy to use and adaptable, but it doesn’t compete with newer rivals on premium feel or quietness inside the cabin.

Comfort versus rivals

Comparing the Journey with other affordable three-row crossovers highlights its strengths and limitations in comfort.

Compared with newer rivals, the Journey tends to lag in ride refinement, interior quality, and cabin quietness, especially in base configurations.

It often wins on value and seating practicality for budget-conscious buyers who need a three-row option without paying a premium.

For lengthy highway trips, many buyers prefer more modern crossovers that offer smoother rides and quieter cabins, even if they cost more.

Bottom line: the Dodge Journey remains a reasonable choice for those prioritizing space and affordability, but comfort across longer journeys or higher expectations often points buyers toward newer or more refined alternatives.

Bottom-line verdict

If comfort is a top priority, the Journey is a fair-but-not-exceptional option. Its practical seating and budget-friendly pricing are appealing, but the ride, materials, and noise levels don’t compete with recent rivals. Prospective buyers should test drive and compare with current competitors to ensure the level of comfort meets their needs.

Summary

The Dodge Journey offers usable three-row seating, straightforward controls, and strong value for money, making it comfortable enough for everyday use and family errands. However, it lacks the refined ride, quiet cabin, and premium materials found in many newer crossovers, so its comfort quality depends heavily on trim level, model year, and condition. For buyers who prioritize comfort above all, alternatives in the affordable three-row segment may provide a noticeably smoother and quieter ride.

What are the common complaints about the Journey?

The most complained-about problem to RepairPal is the remote keyless entry not working. Many Journey model years have electrical problems pertaining to the car failing to start, stalling, and buttons/lights failing randomly, but one more issue that's more of a nuisance than a major problem is the keyless entry.

Which Dodge Journeys to stay away from?

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.

What is the most common problem with Dodge Journeys?

The most common problems with the Dodge Journey include electrical system failures (especially with the keyless entry and remote start), engine overheating due to coolant issues, and premature brake wear. Other frequent complaints involve water leaks, particularly in the interior, and transmission problems like slipping or hard shifting, particularly in certain model years.

This video discusses common Dodge Journey problems, including electrical, engine, and transmission issues: 52sOBD InsightsYouTube · Aug 2, 2024
Electrical problems

Remote keyless entry: Intermittent or complete failure of the keyless entry system is a frequently reported nuisance.
General electrical issues: Owners report problems with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), dead batteries, and malfunctioning power accessories.
Airbag malfunctions: This can include spontaneous deployment or failures, often indicated by a flashing airbag light.

Engine and cooling system issues

Overheating: Particularly in models from 2009-2016, the engine can overheat due to a clogged coolant port in the thermostat housing.
Oil consumption: The 2.4-liter engine can consume a significant amount of oil.
Other engine complaints: Some models have experienced stalling, and the 3.6L engine can have issues with the oil cooler or radiator neck.

Brake problems

Premature wear: Owners report that brake pads and rotors wear out faster than expected.
Other issues: Problems include noisy brakes, sticking brake pedals, and ABS or ESC warning lights.

Are Dodge Journeys reliable?

The reliability of the Dodge Journey is mixed, with specific early model years being particularly problematic. Common issues include electrical problems, especially in models from 2009-2011, and engine overheating in some 2009-2016 models. Some later models are viewed more favorably, but overall the Journey's reputation for reliability is lower compared to its competitors.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems with Dodge Journey models from 2009 to 2020: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 28, 2022
Common problems by model year

Early models (2009-2011): These years are frequently cited as having significant electrical issues, including problems with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which can lead to a range of symptoms from dead batteries to electrical fires. There were also multiple recalls associated with these models.
Engine issues (2009-2016): Some models from these years are prone to overheating, often due to a blocked thermostat housing. This can lead to coolant leaks and a gradual loss of power.

Other common issues

Brake issues: Some owners report premature brake warping.
Interior and exterior problems: Some users have reported issues with foggy headlights or minor electrical accessory malfunctions.

What this means for potential buyers

Avoid certain years: It is recommended to avoid early model years, particularly 2009 through 2011, due to the high number of documented problems.
Consider later models with caution: While some later models are considered less problematic, it is still wise to get a pre-purchase inspection and review the specific model's history for known issues.
Expect average or below-average reliability: Compared to other SUVs and crossover vehicles, the Dodge Journey generally scores lower in reliability ratings.

This video discusses the history and major flaws of the Dodge Journey: 52sMarspeedYouTube · Jun 24, 2021

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.