What is the recall on the Dodge Journey ignition?

Vehicle recalls can be confusing for owners, especially around ignition systems that affect power, steering, and safety systems. This article clarifies the current state of recalls tied to the Dodge Journey ignition, how to verify if your vehicle is affected, and what to expect from manufacturers and dealers.

There is no single active recall labeled specifically as an “Ignition recall” for all Dodge Journey models; recall status depends on your vehicle’s year, VIN, and the official campaigns in effect. Check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and your dealer for the most accurate information for your car.

Context: Dodge Journey and ignition recalls

The Dodge Journey has been subject to multiple safety campaigns over the years, some addressing ignition-related components such as the ignition switch/lock cylinder, wiring harnesses, or related electronics. These recalls aim to prevent scenarios where the engine stalls, power steering becomes unavailable, or airbags fail to deploy properly due to ignition issues. The precise campaigns vary by VIN and model year.

How to check if your Journey is affected

Before listing steps, it's important to know you must verify with official records using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The recall status can differ by individual vehicles even within the same model year.

VIN-based recall checks

• Find your VIN (17 characters) on the driver’s side dashboard or the driver’s door jamb and in your vehicle’s registration documents.


• Visit the official NHTSA recall database at safecar.gov and enter your VIN to search for open campaigns specific to your vehicle.


• Alternatively, use the Dodge/Chrysler owner portal or contact your local dealership for a VIN-specific recall lookup.


• Review the list of active recalls and confirm whether an ignition-related campaign applies to your Journey.

If a recall is listed, you will be instructed on the remedy and scheduling at no cost to you.

What the remedy may entail

Remedies for ignition-related recalls differ by campaign but typically involve a repair or replacement of affected components and sometimes software updates.

Typical repair actions

• Inspection of ignition lock cylinder and ignition switch to verify wear or damage.


• Replacement of ignition lock cylinder and/or ignition switch assembly if required.


• Replacement of related wiring harness or connectors that could affect ignition operation.


• Software updates or reprogramming of related control modules if needed.

Repairs are performed by authorized dealers at no cost to the vehicle owner as part of the recall remedy.

What to do if your Journey is affected

If your VIN shows an active ignition recall, contact a Dodge dealership as soon as possible to schedule a repair. Until the remedy is performed, you should avoid driving if the ignition issue could cause loss of power or control, and follow dealer instructions.

Immediate steps

• Do not ignore the recall notice; contact your dealer or the NHTSA for guidance.


• Schedule the repair promptly; recall work is free and prioritized.


• Keep a record of all communications and the service order once the recall is completed.

Most recalls are resolved within a few hours to a day, depending on parts availability and the specific campaign.

Summary

Ignition-related recalls on the Dodge Journey are not a single, universal issue, but a set of campaigns that vary by VIN and model year. The best path to accuracy is to check the VIN against official recall databases and contact a Dodge dealer for enrollment in the remedy. Owners should stay informed and act quickly if a recall is identified, as remedies are provided at no cost and are designed to prevent engine stalling, power loss, or airbag non-deployment. Regular checks with NHTSA and the manufacturer help ensure ongoing safety.

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. 

Other common problems

• Interior water leaks: Water can leak into the cabin, particularly through the driver's door, and accumulate on the floor. 
• Transmission problems: Some model years, especially 2014-2015, are prone to transmission slipping or hard shifting. 
• Steering issues: Some owners report issues like a whining noise from the power steering pump. 

You can watch this video to learn about common Dodge Journey issues from a mechanic's perspective, including engine and transmission problems: 59sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Dec 31, 2021

Are there any recalls on the Dodge Journey?

Recent Dodge Journey recalls include a faulty backup camera in May 2019-2020 models and a problem with the side reflectors on 2017-2018 models. Other recalls have involved issues with the power steering hose in 2009-2016 models, the engine cover in 2011-2015 models, airbag wiring, and tire placard labels. It is best to check for specific recalls for your vehicle's year, make, and model on the NHTSA website.
 
Recent recalls

• Backup camera: Dodge Journey SUVs from model years 2019 and 2020 may have a faulty backup camera that doesn't meet federal safety standards. 
• Side reflectors: The side reflectors in the headlamp assemblies of 2017 and 2018 Dodge Journey models may not reflect brightly enough, a recall issued in late 2022 addresses this issue. 

Older recalls

• Power steering hose: Some 2009-2016 Dodge Journey models may have a power steering return hose that can rupture in cold temperatures, causing a loss of power steering. 
• Engine cover: An engine cover may detach and contact the exhaust manifold on 2011-2015 Dodge Journey models equipped with a 2.4L engine. 
• Airbag wiring: Some 2011-2015 Dodge Journey models have a risk of the driver's frontal airbag unexpectedly deploying if the wiring harness inside the steering wheel chafes and shorts. 
• Tire placard: Inaccurate seating capacity and weight information on the tire placard labels of certain 2014-2015 models was a recall issue. 
• Transmission pump: A transmission pump problem led to a recall for some 2015-2016 Dodge Journey models. 

How to check your specific vehicle

• You can check for recalls by entering your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. 
• You can also contact your local Dodge dealership to see if your vehicle is affected by any open recalls. 

What is the latest Dodge recall?

2021-2023 Dodge Durango Recall
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use. A damaged rear spoiler can detach and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Have there been any recalls of automotive ignition systems or switches?

There have been hundreds of recalls for defective ignition switches in General Motors vehicles. It became clear just how dangerous these vehicles were as more and more owners complained of their car engines shutting off while driving.