What would make a Dodge Durango not start?

A Dodge Durango that won’t start is typically due to a dead battery or weak electricals, a fault in the starting or charging system, fuel delivery or ignition problems, or an immobilizer/security issue. Other engine-sensor faults can also prevent starting.

Across model years, Durangos can fail to start for a mix of electrical, mechanical, and software reasons. This article outlines the most common causes and practical steps you can take to diagnose or address them, from quick at-home checks to when to seek professional help.

Common causes that stop a Durango from starting

The following categories cover the most frequent no-start scenarios you may encounter with a Dodge Durango.

• Dead or weak battery


• Corroded, loose, or damaged battery terminals and cables


• Faulty starter motor or solenoid


• Bad alternator or failing charging system


• Blown fuses or relays in the starting/electrical circuits


• Faulty ignition switch or push-button start


• Immobilizer/anti-theft system malfunction or key not recognized


• Neutral safety switch/parking brake interlock problems (vehicle not in Park/Neutral or brake not pressed)

These issues can prevent the engine from cranking or from proceeding to a successful ignition. If any of these symptoms appear, it’s typically best to start with power and ignition checks before moving deeper into the system.

Fuel and ignition system issues

Fuel delivery and ignition problems can stop a Durango from starting even when the battery is healthy. This section highlights the main fuel and ignition culprits to consider.

• Empty or very low fuel level


• Faulty or failed fuel pump or fuel pump relay


• Clogged or degraded fuel filter


• Fuel pressure regulator failure or poor fuel pressure


• Worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils/wires


• Crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor faults


• Ignition timing issues or miscommunication between ignition components

In many cases, symptoms in this category present as a crank without a successful start, cranking that lasts longer than usual, or rough running prior to shutdown. A proper inspection of the fuel system and ignition components can reveal the root cause.

Engine management and sensor problems

Modern Durangos rely on sensors and the engine control module (ECM/PCM) to determine when to fire injectors and spark and when to start the engine. Faults in these parts can cause a no-start condition.

• Faulty or failing ECM/PCM or software issues


• Bad crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor


• Mismatched or dirty MAF/MAP sensors or airflow issues


• Electrical harness damage or poor connections to sensors


• Intermittent sensor glitches or corrupted data from multiple sensors

Because engine management relies on correct data from multiple sources, a no-start problem from sensors can be subtle. A diagnostic scan can often pinpoint such faults.

Interlocks and user factors

Some starting problems relate to how the vehicle is being operated or to interlock safety systems. These can be resolved with proper procedure or simple key checks.

• Vehicle not fully in Park or Neutral (automatic transmission)


• Brake pedal not pressed when attempting to start (with older push-to-start configurations)


• Key fob battery dead or key not recognized by the immobilizer


• Remote start or security system conflicts


• Recent battery disconnect or key programming requiring re-sync

If the security light is flashing or the door/window sensors aren’t responding normally, the immobilizer may be preventing the engine from starting until the issue is resolved.

How to diagnose and what to try safely

Before diving into repairs, run through these practical, at-home checks. They help distinguish between easy fixes and issues requiring a technician.

1. Check the battery and starting system: verify there is power to the starter and that the engine cranks. If the engine doesn’t crank at all, focus on the battery, cables, and starter circuit.


2. Test the battery voltage with a multimeter: a healthy, fully charged battery reads about 12.6 volts with the engine off. If it’s significantly lower (around 12.0 volts or less) or drops under load, charge or replace the battery.


3. Inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion, looseness, or damage. Clean and tighten connections as needed, and consider replacing worn cables.


4. Check fuses and relays related to the starting and fuel systems (starter relay, EFI fuse, and main power fuses). A blown fuse can prevent starting even with a healthy battery.


5. Observe the security/immobilizer indicator on the dash. If the immobilizer light is active or blinking, the car may not start until the key is recognized. Try a spare key or replace the key fob battery if applicable.


6. Listen for the fuel pump when you turn the ignition to the ON position. A brief humming from the rear of the vehicle indicates fuel pressure is being built; no sound may suggest a fuel pump or relay issue.


7. If the engine cranks but does not start, consider ignition and fuel readiness: check spark plug condition and fuel pressure; scan for trouble codes with an OBD-II reader to identify sensor or ECM-related faults.


8. For models with push-button start, ensure you are pressing the brake firmly (or follow the specific start procedure for your trim). Interlocks can prevent starting if the brake isn’t engaged or the key isn’t recognized.


9. When in doubt, especially if trouble codes point to sensors or the ECM, seek professional diagnostic assistance. Complex electrical or software issues often require specialized tools.

These steps help isolate common no-start causes and guide you toward appropriate fixes. If you’re not comfortable performing these checks, or if the Durango still won’t start after basic diagnostics, contact a qualified technician or your dealership for a more thorough diagnosis.

What to do next and when to call a professional

If the Durango won’t start after basic checks, or if you discover any of the following, it’s wise to involve a pro: persistent battery or charging problems, recurring starter or ignition failures, fuel delivery concerns, immobilizer faults, or trouble codes pointing to sensors or the ECM. A professional technician can perform wiring tests, fuel pressure tests, sensor diagnostics, and software updates to restore reliability.

Summary

In short, a Dodge Durango that won’t start is most often caused by power issues (battery or charging system), the starting circuit (starter, relays, fuses), fuel delivery or ignition problems, or immobilizer/security faults. Engine management sensors can also prevent starting when data from crank/cam sensors or airflow sensors is incorrect. A systematic approach—checking battery and connections, fuses, security indicators, fuel delivery, and running a fault-code scan—helps identify the culprit. When in doubt, especially with newer models and complex electronics, a professional diagnostic is the fastest route back to reliable starting.

What does it mean when my car has power but won't start?

A car with power but no start is likely caused by a faulty starter motor, a bad ignition switch, or a problem with the car's electrical connections. Other common culprits include a blown fuse or relay, a loose or corroded battery cable, a problem with the fuel pump, or a malfunctioning shift safety switch. 
Electrical and connection issues

• Faulty starter motor: If you hear a single click when you turn the key but the engine doesn't crank, a bad starter is a likely cause. 
• Bad ignition switch: This switch sends power to the starter. If it's faulty, accessories might work, but the engine won't crank. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Even with a charged battery, corrosion or loose connections can prevent the flow of power needed to start the engine. 
• Blown fuse or faulty relay: A blown fuse or bad relay in the starter circuit can prevent power from reaching the starter. 
• Key fob battery (for push-button start): A dead or weak key fob battery can prevent a modern car from recognizing the key and starting. 

This video explains how to check for common causes like a faulty starter or a bad key fob battery: 55sFixITYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
Mechanical and safety issues

• Faulty neutral safety switch: In an automatic car, this switch prevents starting unless the gear selector is in Park or Neutral. Wiggling the shifter while trying to start can sometimes temporarily fix this. 
• Fuel system problems: If the engine cranks but won't "catch," a problem with the fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter could be the issue. 
• Security system lockout: The car's anti-theft system can malfunction and prevent it from starting. 
• Bad ignition coil or spark plugs: These are necessary for the engine to ignite. If they are faulty, the engine will crank but not start. 

This video demonstrates how to check the neutral safety switch and other potential issues: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Jan 24, 2024
Troubleshooting steps

• Check battery connections: Wiggle the battery terminals to ensure they are tight and clean off any white, powdery corrosion. 
• Try a jump-start: A jump-start can help determine if the battery has enough power to crank the engine, even if it shows a good voltage reading. 
• Check fuses and relays: Locate the fuse box and visually inspect the fuses for the starter and ignition. You can also swap a suspect relay with a known-good one, like the horn relay, to test it. 
• Check the gear selector: For automatic transmissions, try shifting to Neutral or jiggling the gear shifter while in Park to see if the safety switch is the culprit. 
• Replace the key fob battery: If you have a push-button start, try replacing the battery in your key fob. 

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.

Why is my Dodge not turning over?

A dead battery, a faulty starter, or even a security system issue could be stopping your truck from getting on the road. Knowing the possible causes can help you decide the next step, whether it's a quick fix or a visit to a trusted Dodge service center.

What would cause my Dodge Durango not to start?

If your Dodge Durango won't turn over or stay running, first check the battery and starter motor for power and connections. Inspect the fuel pump relay and fuel filter for blockages or failure. A faulty crankshaft position sensor can also prevent starting or cause stalling.