What is the advanced brake assist on the Durango?

The Advanced Brake Assist (ABA) on the Dodge Durango is a driver‑assist feature that automatically increases braking effort when a frontal collision is imminent and the driver hasn’t pressed the brake pedal hard enough.

In practice, ABA is part of Dodge’s broader safety suite. It works alongside the vehicle’s Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking systems, using sensors to gauge risk and intervene with additional braking when needed. The goal is to shorten stopping distances and enhance protection for occupants, while still relying on the driver to remain attentive and ready to brake manually if required.

What ABA does and how it integrates with other systems

How it is triggered

ABA engages when the car detects an imminent collision scenario and senses that the driver’s braking force is insufficient to avoid impact. In such cases, the system adds braking pressure beyond the driver’s input to help reduce speed more quickly.

Sensor inputs and collaboration with other features

Durango ABA relies on a combination of radar and camera sensors to assess distance, relative speed, and closing rate to the vehicle ahead. It typically operates in concert with Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking, and can work with Adaptive Cruise Control to maintain safe following distances at various speeds.

Availability and configuration

Below is a snapshot of how the feature is typically packaged in recent Durango models. Availability can vary by model year and market, so it’s best to verify with a dealer or the window sticker for a specific vehicle.

• Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is commonly bundled with ABA in recent Safety/Driver Assist packages.


• ABA functionality is part of Dodge’s active safety technology suite, and its inclusion often depends on the presence of the Safety/Driver Assist or Safety Sphere packages.


• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and other driver-assist features may accompany ABA, providing coordinated braking and speed control in traffic.


• Sensor suite used by ABA typically includes radar and camera systems, with operation calibrated for highway and urban speeds.

These configurations emphasize the Durango’s emphasis on collision mitigation. Consumers should consult their specific model year’s documentation to confirm exact feature sets and packaging in their region.

Practical considerations for drivers

ABA is designed to augment, not replace, a driver’s braking. It can help reduce stopping distances in emergencies, but it may not prevent all collisions, particularly in adverse weather, on slick surfaces, or when obstacles are outside the sensor’s field of view. Drivers should remain attentive, keep a safe following distance, and be prepared to brake manually if the situation requires it.

In operation, you might notice the brakes not only engage more aggressively but also provide gentle pedal feel as the system modulates force. If the system triggers unexpectedly, it’s usually because sensor data indicates an urgent stop scenario; ensure your tires and brakes are in good condition and follow up with a dealer if you notice any irregular braking behavior.

Summary

Advanced Brake Assist on the Dodge Durango is a safety feature designed to boost braking in emergency situations when driver input falls short. It works in concert with Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and often Adaptive Cruise Control, using radar and camera sensors to assess risk and apply additional braking when needed. Availability varies by model year and trim, so checking the specific vehicle’s equipment list is essential. As with all driver aids, ABA complements but does not replace careful, attentive driving.

What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?

Years to avoid for the Dodge Durango include the earliest models like 1999-2000, 2004-2005, and 2011-2012, and 2014, due to frequent reports of engine, transmission, electrical, and suspension issues. The 1999 model year is frequently cited as one of the worst due to a high number of complaints, including engine and suspension problems. Early third-generation models like 2011 and 2012 are known for electrical and transmission issues, while the 2014 model year had problems with water intrusion in the tail lights and faulty airbags. 
First generation (1998-2003) 

• 1999-2000: Prone to engine and suspension problems, as well as electrical and transmission failures. The 1999 model has a particularly high number of owner complaints.
• 2001-2003: Transmission issues and electrical problems are common. 

Second generation (2004-2009) 

• 2004-2005: These model years frequently experienced powertrain and suspension issues. The 2005 model also had several recalls. 
• 2006-2009: While generally better, some owners reported issues with the engine and suspension. 

Third generation (2011-2020) 

• 2011-2012: These years are plagued with electrical problems, particularly the TIMP (Transmission Integrated Power Module), and braking issues.
• 2014: Issues included water leaking into the tail lights and airbags that could deploy unexpectedly. 

Fourth generation (2021-Present) 

• 2021-2025: Some owners have reported recurring issues, and in some cases, the vehicles may qualify as a "lemon" under state laws if the problems persist. 

What is the advanced brake assist system on a Dodge Durango?

Advanced Brake Assist and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus. With Advanced Brake Assist, the 2025 Durango can apply maximum braking power in emergency situations, helping to reduce stopping distances.

What is the most common problem with Dodge Durangos?

Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are common in 2021-2025 Dodge Durango models. Many owners report hard shifting, transmission slipping, and overheating.

What is advanced brake assist?

Advanced brake assist is a safety feature that enhances emergency braking by automatically increasing the vehicle's braking force. It uses sensors to detect when a driver is in a situation requiring hard braking but is not applying enough force, and then supplements their braking to help avoid or mitigate a collision. It is a step toward fully automatic systems, as it relies on driver-initiated braking, unlike a fully automatic emergency braking (AEB) system which can apply the brakes on its own if the driver fails to respond.
 
This video explains how advanced brake assist works with collision warnings: 53sFCA APAC GD MarketingYouTube · Apr 20, 2020
How it works

• Emergency detection: Sensors, such as radar and cameras, monitor the road ahead and measure how quickly the brake pedal is depressed. 
• Driver input: The system can distinguish between routine, gentle braking and the rapid, aggressive braking that indicates an emergency. 
• Braking enhancement: If the system detects an emergency stop is needed but the driver isn't applying enough force, it will automatically increase the braking power to the maximum possible. 
• Pre-charging: Some systems may also "pre-charge" the brakes by increasing pressure when the driver quickly lifts their foot off the accelerator, so they are ready for immediate braking. 
• ABS integration: In conjunction with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), the system helps prevent wheel lock-up during a hard stop, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. 

Key difference from Automated Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Advanced brake assist: Boosts the braking force that the driver applies during an emergency. 
• Automated Emergency Braking (AEB): Can automatically apply the brakes without driver input if it detects an imminent collision and the driver is not reacting.