What year did Durango get 8 speed transmission?

The Dodge Durango first gained an eight-speed automatic with the 2014 model year.

That change replaced the earlier five-speed setup on most trims and extended across the V6 Pentastar and available V8 Hemi engines, signaling a shift toward improved highway fuel efficiency and smoother performance across the lineup.

When the Durango switched to eight speeds

Details on the year and engines affected, plus the transmission family involved.

• Introduction year: 2014 model year.


• Engines affected: 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L Hemi V8.


• Transmission type: eight-speed automatic (ZF 8HP family).


• Market rollout: broadly available across most trims and configurations, with regional variations possible in early production.

The 2014 introduction marked the beginning of Durango’s modern, eight-speed drivetrain, which the brand continued to refine in subsequent years.

Impact and ongoing refinements

The switch to eight speeds delivered smoother shifts and improved highway efficiency, with software updates and calibration refinements applied in later model years to optimize shift timing and overall feel while preserving the eight-speed hardware.

Notes for buyers and enthusiasts

For a specific build, always verify the exact transmission via the vehicle’s window sticker or VIN-based spec sheet, as trims and markets may differ slightly in transmission availability.

Summary: The Durango first got an eight-speed transmission in the 2014 model year, replacing the older five-speed auto, and has continued with eight speeds in later generations with ongoing refinements.

What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?

You should generally stay away from the 1999-2000, 2004-2006, and 2011-2013 model years of the Dodge Durango due to common issues like suspension failures, electrical problems, and transmission issues. Specifically, the 1999 and 2000 models had frequent suspension and engine problems, while the 2011-2013 models are noted for electrical and transmission troubles. The 2004-2006 models experienced electrical issues that could cause fires, leading to recalls. 
First generation (1998-2003) 

• Years to avoid: 1999 and 2000 
• Common problems: Chronic suspension failures (ball joints, bushings, wheel bearings) and engine stalling. The 1999 model is often cited as one of the worst due to numerous complaints about the vehicle shutting down while driving. 
• Note: While the first generation has issues, the 2001-2003 models are considered better options for those who want an older, body-on-frame SUV. 

Second generation (2004-2009)

• Years to avoid: 2004, 2005, and 2006 
• Common problems: Electrical problems, particularly in 2004-2006, which led to cabins catching fire and resulted in recalls. Transmission issues were also reported in 2005. 

Third generation (2011-2023)

• Years to avoid: 2011, 2012, and 2013 
• Common problems: Electrical and transmission problems plagued the early years of this generation. 
  • 2011 and 2012: Experienced significant electrical issues, sometimes related to a TIMP (Transmission/Ignition Module/Processor) problem. 
  • 2014: While part of the later part of this generation, the 2014 model had issues with tail light water intrusion and airbag malfunctions. 

What transmission is in a 2014 Dodge Durango?

The 2014 Dodge Durango has an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard on all models, which was new for that year and offered across both the 3.6L V6 and 5.7L V8 engine options. This transmission is known for providing smooth and quick shifts, improved fuel economy, and a more flexible driving experience compared to previous models. 
You can watch this video to see a review of the 2014 Dodge Durango with the new 8-speed transmission: 52sThe Fast Lane CarYouTube · Jun 3, 2014

• Transmission type: 8-speed automatic (either the 845RE for the Pentastar V6 or the 8HP70 for the Hemi V8) 
• Shifting: Smooth and quick shifts with a rotary shifter and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters 
• Performance: Improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to earlier models 
• Eco Mode: A new Eco Mode was standard, which helps manage fuel consumption by managing the engine when the vehicle is coasting 

Is the Dodge 8-speed transmission a good transmission?

The Dodge 8-speed transmission (ZF 8HP) is generally considered a good and high-performing transmission, but it has some potential reliability issues, particularly in older models used for heavy-duty applications. While it offers great performance and efficiency, some common failures involve the pressure plates, E-clutch, and valve body, especially with aggressive use, such as plowing or heavy towing.
 
This video discusses common issues with the Dodge Ram 8-speed transmission: 1mNational TransmissionYouTube · Oct 1, 2025
Positive aspects

• Excellent performance: The transmission is praised for its smooth and responsive shifts, which makes for a more car-like driving experience. 
• Fuel efficiency: It helps improve fuel economy compared to older 6-speed transmissions due to its wider range of gears. 
• Wide adoption: Due to its quality, it's used in many different vehicles, including high-end models and other manufacturers' vehicles. 
• Towing capability: It handles towing well, though performance can decrease under extremely heavy loads. 

Potential issues

• Durability concerns: While generally reliable, there have been reports of common failures, particularly in trucks used for heavy-duty work like plowing. 
• Specific part failures: Common points of failure include bending or breaking pressure plates (especially in the A clutch), stripping hub splines on the E-clutch, and wear on the DC clutch drum shell and valve body. 
• Maintenance schedule: The official Ram maintenance schedule may not recommend fluid changes, but ZF (the manufacturer) recommends changes every 60,000 miles for optimal long-term performance. 
• Software/electrical issues: Some owners report software or electrical problems in post-pandemic models, possibly due to cost-cutting measures. 
• Abrupt throttle response: The transmission can feel delayed in responding to abrupt, heavy throttle inputs. 

This video explains the honest take on the Ram's ZF 8-speed transmission: 1mThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · Sep 28, 2025
Recommendations

• Follow the recommended maintenance: Change the transmission fluid according to ZF's recommendations (around every 60,000 miles) to maximize its lifespan. 
• Consider your driving habits: The transmission is best suited for general use. If you plan on heavy towing or aggressive driving, be aware of the potential for issues and consider alternative options or getting a transmission built for heavy use. 

What year did the Durango get the 8-speed?

2014
2014 Dodge Durango
A refresh in 2014 included updated front and rear styling, along with an 8-speed automatic transmission for improved performance and fuel efficiency. Interior amenities introduced an available 8.4-inch touchscreen and rear-seat Blu-ray player.